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Luna Di Fragola Posted by Geoff on Jun 24, 2016
Last week I published an article about the gnomone in the Duomo di Firenze, which casts an image of the sun onto an indicator incised into the floor of the cathedral at around midday during the period of the summer solstice. This aroused my curiosity about the phenomenon of the solstice in general, and led…
Astronomy In The Cathedral Posted by Geoff on Jun 20, 2016
Il Duomo di Firenze, also known as La Chiesa Di Santa Maria Del Fiore, is one of the world’s most famous cathedrals. Last Year, the roughly 1.3 million tourists who visited it will certainly have admired its amazing cupola, designed by Brunelleschi, and built between 1418 and 1436. Brunelleschi’s cupola, the world’s largest masonry dome…
What is pasta? Posted by Geoff on Jun 15, 2016
What is pasta? Asked that question, most non Italians would probably think of spaghetti, lasagne and the many other variations of dried or semi dried dough which are commonly referred to by that name. But what is pasta, really? In English, there are various ways to translate the word pasta, the most literal being ‘paste’…
The Secret Press Posted by Geoff on Jun 8, 2016
The beauty of living in Italy is that it gives you time to explore the details. From the point of view of Italy’s historical, artistic and cultural heritage, tourists are quite literally overwhelmed by the list of things that one simply ‘must see’. But for those who enjoy getting off the beaten track and exploring…
English translation: The Hidden Italian Garden Posted by Geoff on Jun 1, 2016
Here, as promised, is the English translation of Serena’s article about our visit to Bagnone castle and gardens. I suggest that you begin by watching the video below, and even if you aren’t able to follow all of the dialogue remember that it’s important to immerse yourselves in the sound and rhythm of spoken Italian…
Funny Italian Warning Signs Posted by Geoff on May 27, 2016
Every now and then I see avvisi (warning signs or notices) that make me smile. Some of these are meant to be serious, and end up sounding ridiculous. But I particularly admire those which use irony and humour to combat antisocial or criminal behaviour. Here, for your entertainment, is a small selection: Above: A super polite…
The Smuggler Posted by Geoff on May 23, 2016
Isn’t it nice to begin the day with a smile? If you follow our blog you’ll know that we like to include, where possible, a bit of humour. But barzellette (jokes) can be difficult to understand when not recounted in your mother tongue, so I’ve translated this one into English for you. Il Contrabbandiere (The…