This week we kick off the month of March with our exciting events list, covering festivals and events across the boot. And for an experience you can’t forget, browse this list of the best tours and language schools around the country.

In culture news, we are celebrating the well-deserved Oscar win of 86 year-old composer Ennio Morricone and invite you all to take this fun quiz celebrating his most famous soundtracks.

Now on to the insider picks of the week. First we go to Venice, where you can listen to opera masterpieces in a beautiful Venetian palazzo, we’ll tell you how. Or why not travel to the mountains to stay in a local mountain hut which offers amazing views for a fraction of the price of a hotel.

Check out the latest news shaking up the coffee world in Italy…

Our dual-language feature this week is on artistic great Leonardo da Vinci’s lost masterpiece. In anticipation of women’s day next Tuesday, our word of the week is ‘donna.’

Our recipes this week include a delicious and easy bread gnocchetti and artichokes ‘alla romana’ which is currently our seasonal favorite.

 Shop true Made-in-Italy products in our shop like balsamic vinegar from Modena, or these cute vespa & fiat inspired accessories.

Looking to buy in Italy? This week we travel to Puglia, where there is a restored country home in ‘trullo’ country or perhaps a beautiful villa, only 3 kilometers from Lecce, with a stunning pool. Looking for an apartment instead? This one is in the center of Lecce in a historical palazzo.

Our spring rental pick, a private villa with private pool, is in the countryside near the white city of ‘Ostuni’ in Puglia.

Have a question about ITALY? Join and participate in our online community, we will help you get answers. Add us on Instagram,  this season we are showcasing the the best of #SpringIntoItaly so tag us in your best spring photos!