Buongiorno Italy readers!

December is also one of the best times of year to buy directly from the artisan. Many artisans who normally toil away in quiet studios open their doors to welcome visitors. But even if you are traveling to Italy this year only by armchair, there are plenty of options for you to find an authentic, handmade gift, too. Read on.

Of the many bureaucratic ducks that you need to get in a row before moving to Italy, figuring out the Italian healthcare system is one of the most important and here's what you need to know.

Still untouched, and unjustly overlooked, Molise, in southern Italy, is a mostly mountainous region that includes a stretch of coastline, with hills descending toward the Adriatic Sea, enjoy our photo tour of the region. 

Love at first bite: how to make homemade spinach & ricotta cannelloni.

Going over possessive adjectives in Italian, a language lesson that will help you indicate ownership of something.  

Bellini is one of Italy’s most noteworthy cocktails and has acquired fame around the world, yet few know of its saucy variation that we deem the perfect holiday drink, Tintoretto. Bubbles made more festive with pomegranate juice.  

Important restoration work on Michelangelo’s funerary monument in the Church of Santa Croce in Florence has been completed and visitors can now admire the Monument to Michelangelo in all its glory.

Secret Rome: discover a rich artistic heritage in a little-known church on central Piazza Venezia.

The perfect combination between raku ceramic and traditional goldsmith techniques in this one-of-a-kind silver ring belonging to a new line of jewelry products made by artisan Francesco Schema. 

Buy true artisan work from Italy: we strive to give those who work with their hands a digital portal to sell their handmade work. Like this wooden lampshade, painted entirely by hand, available in white and yellow.

Dream home for sale between Montepulciano & Cortona! This country villa is located near the wine-making area of Montepulciano and was partially restored in 2006. It is ready to be inhabited and it is composed of 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a pool. 

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend from Georgette, your editor, and the Italy Magazine team.