Looking for a history of the Medici family? You’ve come to the right place! The Medici family of Florence holds a prominent place in history as the unrivaled dynasty of the Renaissance period. They were not only renowned but also held immense power during that time. When people think of Florence, they think of the … Read more
“While stands the Coliseum, Rome shall stand; When falls the Coliseum, Rome shall fall; And when Rome falls – the World.” — Lord Byron Every visitor to Rome visits the Colosseum. But most don’t make it into the fascinating underground area. Formally named the Flavian Amphitheater, the Colosseum has stood in Rome for almost 2,000 … Read more
“My illustrious lordship, I’ll show you what a woman can do.” — Artemisia Gentileschi to her art patron Don Antonio Ruggo Here’s my guide to the compelling life of Italian Baroque painter Artemisia Gentileschi and her most important masterpieces. I bet you’ve never heard of Artemisia Gentileschi, am I right? She was one of the … Read more
Here’s my visitor’s guide to the Church of Sant’Agnese in Rome. The church is one of the most beautiful churches in Rome. It’s located smack in the middle of the historic Piazza Navona, the very symbol of Rome. But the Baroque church doesn’t get the attention it deserves. People gawk at the Bernini fountains and … Read more
It’s only a 6 hour drive from Milan to Rome. But this well-traveled route is dense with amazing must see medieval villages, ornate palazzos, Roman ruins, and sublime treasures of the Renaissance. There’s plenty of great destinations in Italy to explore along the way. This super detailed 10 day itinerary takes you to them. It’s … Read more
If you’re an art lover seeking an affordable vacation in Rome, Italy, you’re in luck! This is the ultimate guide to experiencing the finest free art, sculpture, and architecture in the city. As it turns out, some of the best things to do in Rome won’t cost you a penny. Traveling in a bustling and … Read more
Here’s my guide to visiting the Castle Sant’Angelo. The castle is a 2,000 year old landmark in Rome Italy. As a national museum, it’s official name is the Museo Nazionale di Castle Sant’Angelo. You might consider the distinctive round bulwark a sign that you’ve arrived at Vatican City. The castle is a former tomb of … Read more
Here’s my wanderlusty guide to the best TV shows to virtually travel the world. Let’s face it. Most of us won’t be traveling for a good long time. We’re stuck at home. The anticipation of a vacation has been temporarily squelched. But are we really stuck? In the era of streaming, we now have access … Read more
“Without having seen the Sistine Chapel, one can form no appreciable idea of what one man is capable of achieving. ” — Goethe On my last trip to Rome, I learned that Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel fresco, The Last Judgment, got a makeover after his death. It was censored. Underpants were added to the nudity-filled fresco. … Read more
There’s only one place in the Roman Forum where you’ll find fresh flowers every day — at the grave of Rome’s most famous citizen, Julius Caesar. Here’s my guide to visiting, or going on a pilgrimage, to the Temple of Caesar in the Roman Forum. The temple was built to honor Caesar and safeguard the … Read more