Buongiorno Italy readers! 

Nowadays, when Michelin-starred chefs garnish a dish with delicate nasturtium flowers or wild fennel, it’s difficult to imagine these foraged goodies in any other context. But as we set out into the depths of the Tuscan hills with local forager Franco Lodini one morning, he reminds us it hasn’t always been this way. 

Learn Italian with Italymagazine. Asking for Directions: For our new Italian Conversations series, we learn how to ask for directions. 

In Italian, there are two ways of talking about a time period and how long it will last: “volerci” and “metterci”. These two transitive verbs are not used in the same way, however, as their meanings vary slightly.

The Ghosts of Matera: On the nights, around 2 November, if you happen to walk through the dark streets of the Sassi, you could come across 'shadows', souls of the dead. 

Like crème caramel, but with Italian flare. A fool-proof custard that comes together with a few kitchen staples plus cantucci.  Cantucci, also called “biscotti di Prato,” are crunchy almond cookies created centuries ago in the Tuscan town of Prato renowed for their flavorful almonds. 

The Pietra di Bismantova is not just any mountain. The massive rock’s flat shape is so particular, as it rises, majestic, solitary, from the surrounding plains in Emilia-Romagna, that Dante Alighieri is said to have been inspired by it for the description of the Purgatory in his Divine Comedy. 

Autumn is one of Italy’s most delicious seasons and we have just the eBook to get you excited about the best recipes from around the boot. Best part? It’s entirely free for Italy Magazine readers. 

Framed by the Capitoline Hill on one side and the Palatine Hill on the other, the Roman Forum is a must-see for anybody visiting Rome. Here are some of its highlights, beginning at the Capitoline Hill at the north-west end of the Forum. 

We are all passionate about artisan craftsmanship here at Italy Magazine and this female-founded company seeks to showcase local artisans in Italy and give them a digital platform for their work. 

Undoubtedly a perfect summer vacation resort on the Riviera Romagnola but trust us, Rimini is much more than that. As a destination, there are plenty of wonderful places to visit and interesting cultural finds. Here are some of our top tips. 

Properties in Italy don't have to break the bank. Casa Parata is a beautiful property consisting of two apartments for sale in Lazio's Arpino for €210.000. They are located in a very good location, close to the center of the village, our #propertyoftheweek. 

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