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Chaos and calm

Although most shops are shut on Sundays in Verona, sometimes, when there is a big event on in the city, they are open and it seems that everyone and their dogs are out and about. The picture is of Via Mazzini, a (usually) beautiful pedestrian shopping zone. It was unbearable, and I found a quick […]

Beautiful churches in Verona

A day to remember our special friends and loved ones. For you Dina, la mia amica del cuore, you are always in my heart. love …Isabella

Rice fields in the Veneto

A beautiful day for an excursion to Isola della Scala, located on the fertile plains close to Verona. It is often called “Citta del Riso” (city of rice) because it is surrounded by rice fields. Isola della Scala has been a centre for rice production in the Veneto since the 17th century and has also […]

Spettacoli al’Arena di Verona

Spectacular is the word to describe the two shows I’ve been lucky to experience at The Arena, in Verona. Cats, the musical, sitting four rows from the stage (courtesy of my wonderful host, Lodovica) was magical, with the orchestra almost close enough to touch. The Zucchero concert, from high up in the unnumbered seats under […]

Views from my balcony

Palazzo Gelmi—my home until the weekend —is an old building above a restaurant. It is in the centre of Verona, very close to the famous Arena di Verona. The amphitheatre was built in the first century. In roman times, it was used to stage gladiator games, hunts with animals such as lions, and other spectacular […]

Verona, the city of love and beauty

/> A guided tour of the medieval buildings in Verona by my teacher Giacomo who knows the history of the city very well. Had an interesting show and tell afternoon with him (all in Italian).

Immersion in the language of love

<div ” class=”separator” style=”clear: both; text-align: center;”>L The first day of school! First, breakfast with my host Ludovica, a gracious Italian woman who insists on speaking only Italian with me. In Classe, the language school is around the corner, less than a minute’s walk. I am the only student in my class, fortuitous as I […]

A gothic church with surprises

The church of Sant’Anastasia is situated in one of the oldest areas of verona, near the Ponte Pietra. It is a beautiful example of Italian gothic architecture. Designed by Domenican friars,construction began in 1290AD, continuing until the 16th century. It is the largest church in Verona and although the facade was never completed, the interior […]