Buongiorno Italy readers!

The first newsletter of the year is always slightly emotional for us. After our meetings in December, we are very excited for what 2018 will bring to both the magazine, and more importantly, to you guys. In honor of one “nuovo anno” (new year) we bring you the best events and festivals around the boot this month for those of you who smartly thought to travel during Italy’s low season.

For our first dual-language post to kick off 2018 we are happy to share that at least one ‘Sword in the Stone’ exists, and it’s in Italy, precisely in Tuscany’s Abbey of Saint Galgano, a former Cistercian monastery not far from Siena. 

The cupola of Santa Maria del Fiore is such an outstanding work of architecture that people are still puzzled today as to how Brunelleschi was able to achieve such a feat.

Today, the ancient Etruscan city of Volterra, southwest of Florence, remains a center for alabaster craftsmanship; art historian Laura Morelli goes in-depth on this local tradition and offers tips on where to find it.

Today, more and more applicants for Italian Dual Citizenship are faced with the decision to apply in their country of residence, United States, Canada, Australia, Brazil, etc. or to apply in Italy, we break down your options here.

Leave Florence behind even if for just a half day and immerse yourself in the picturesque Tuscan countryside, exploring lesser-known medieval villages.

Need to detox this month? Try our recipe for a delicious carrot, orange and dill soup.

Shop our vast selection of bespoke gold, gemstone and silver earrings made by Italian artisans based all over Italy.

Our recipe of the week is packed with nutrients and health benefits. A pasta dish that combines sweet potatoes with farro, an Italian ancient grain, and cavolo nero or Tuscan Kale, a principal ingredient in Tuscan cooking. 

Hand-stitched embroidery is a skill in the hands of only a few people. But it can become popular again if we start using handcrafted products in our everyday life. Invest in this lovely tea towel made by an artisan from Tuscany.

Already dreaming about this year’s Italy trip? Trullo Vista Blu has a commanding view – “vista” – of Puglia's Valle d’Itria. It is the perfect solution for families with grown up children needing a little space of their own or couples and friends sharing a week, if not two, on a summer break from city life and chaos.

For sale in beautiful Lazio: This four-bedroom villa is ideal for those who love being surrounded by nature, animals and enjoying a one-of-a-king lake view.