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How to cook “focaccette” – Lunigiana (Tuscany)

admin — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 07:06:02 +0000

In this video you can see how ‘focaccette’, a typical speciality of Lunigiana, are cooked. The focacette are made from a dough of corn and wheat flour without yeast, placed on terracotta plates (“testi”) which have been heated on a wood fire and in a few minutes they are ready to be accompanied by sausages, cheeses and much more….

In questo video si possono vedere le fasi di preparazione delle focaccette, una specialità tipica della Lunigiana. Poste su piatti di terracotta, chiamati “testi”, scaldati su fuoco a legna, le focaccette sono fatte di un impasto di farina di grano e farina di granturco. In poco minuti, sono pronte per essere accompagnate da salumi, formaggi e altro ancora…

► Focus on Tuscany

House for sale – Lunigiana (north Tuscany)

Toracca — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 07:43:31 +0000

CODIPONTE CASA
Did I like it? Emphatically “YES I DID.”
Would I buy it? “YES I WOULD,” if I was single, part of a couple or had young children and was looking for an ideal holiday home. A perfect holiday home!
One of the immediate attractions of this house is that it is very low maintenance i.e. not so large that I‘d spend all my holiday doing housework and the lack of a garden is a definite plus. After all, who wants to spend precious holiday hours tidying a garden as couple of weeks absence is sufficient to ensure days of work as everything in this area grows so rapidly.
Another absolute advantage is that after a quick shopping spree to install beds and something to sit on and eat off, occupancy is immediate.
At present, the small but charming front terrace is large enough to accommodate some chairs and a small drinks table but with minimal work and expense could easily be transformed into an acceptable eating out area, and the idea of sitting on this terrace sipping a good local wine and looking out over the incredible view is very tempting.
The kitchen, immediately off the terrace is more than adequate to accommodate a table and chairs and kitchen fittings without the cook becoming claustrophobic should anyone should want to join her/him while producing delicious meals using the excellent local produce readily available from the village stores. For me the kitchen is like a blank canvas to an artist. While in need of kitchen furniture, whether you choose modern or traditional units from the wonderful kitchen fitting manufacturers only a short drive from Codiponte or make a trip to Genoa and enjoy the pleasure of economy buys in IKEA, or even purchase antique furniture, not so readily available but definitely to be found, for me the idea of designing my own kitchen certainly appeals.
I loved the existing terracotta floor and although my immediate feeling was that the wall tiles were not my taste, after another look I decided that if incorporated with the right furniture and colour scheme I could certainly live with them.
The good-sized living room would accommodate sufficient furniture to ensure a cosy and comfortable room to relax in and although the flooring is perhaps not everyone’s taste I liked it immensely. I particularly loved the “friendly” window looking out over, but above the narrow street and imagined peering down and chatting to people as they passed by. One of the endearing things about this part of Italy is the warmth and friendliness of the people as they are always ready to pass the time of day or stop for a chat. Even if you can’t manage the language they somehow make themselves understood and smile happily as if understanding everything you’re saying.
From the living room the marble staircase with pretty wrought iron railings leads up to the first floor. For me the staircase of a house is most important. A strange personal thing but I love a good staircase and for sure this is a good staircase. Beautiful white marble treads, light and airy with lots of wall space to decorate and at the top of the stairs an interesting little landing with steps going up to the main bedroom and others going down to the bathroom and the second bedroom.
I was delighted when I reached the main bedroom, not only by it’s size but the fact that a large built in cupboard, ideal as a wardrobe, meant that furnishing this room would be a joy.
Then down to the bathroom, not huge, but certainly larger than most I’ve seen, including my own. Although there’s no bath, which had I not lived in Italy for so many years I might not have been pleased with, but knowing how many showers I take during the hot summer months a bath is definitely unnecessary. Apart from anything a bath uses a lot more water than a shower. The floor tiles are absolutely gorgeous and decorating this room in my own taste would be great fun. The existing tiles are a little “floral” for me but I could happily live with them until I decided exactly what I wanted to do to the room.
The second bedroom was probably the room I was most excited about. Although not huge it is large enough to accommodate a bed or bunk beds and any necessary bedroom furniture. Undoubtedly the best feature of this room are the double doors leading out onto a balcony with the most stunning views, over Codiponte, the mountains and other villages including the beautiful village of Monte di Bianchi. I knew immediately what I would do with this room. I no longer have children at home but as I do have visitors I would install a sofa bed and turn it into a small sitting room/study/guest room. Then I could enjoy the view from within the room or sit on the balcony which is large enough to take a couple of chairs.
I always believe it is good to live in a house for a while and get a feel for it before rushing into decorating and with this house that would certainly be possible and most importantly apart from fitting out the kitchen and possibly extending the courtyard there is no need for any major work.
One of the many delights of this property is that although surrounded by other houses it’s not directly overlooked and as the street is so narrow it is quiet and tranquil with no chance of a vehicle driving by. An excellent position for people with youngsters as they could confidently allow the children to wander around in safety.
The approach through the village up to the house is exceptionally attractive, but whilst being so high up affords fantastic views reaching the house on foot is a bit strenuous. A great way of getting fit though and the new road at the rear of the village will ensure that luggage, deliveries and shopping can be brought to the house quite easily.
A walk around the lower part of Codiponte revealed the usual village shops ensuring that almost everything you require can be purchased without leaving the village including washing machines, fridges and televisions. These village shops never cease to amaze me. Always incredibly small they are crammed to capacity with stock that would put some supermarkets to shame and of course you can order your bread daily, purchase local produce and delicacies and of course local wine. A “peek” and a “sniff” into the Codiponte shops told me they were as well stocked with “goodies” as all the other tiny village “alimentari “ in this area.
Codiponte is a delightful antique village ideally situated for exploring the wonders of Lunigiana and beyond, which of course includes fantastic restaurants and pizzerias. Throughout the year Codiponte has the usual activities, Carnivale, an Apple Fair and not least a Croce Bianco benefit night. I’ve attended all of these in the past but probably the most memorable was the Croce Bianco night when I ate delicious capra (goat) and polenta. The polenta was ambrosial, excuse me if I sound too poetic but it really was that good and had been made during the late afternoon by several of the Signoras in the village in their own homes then transported to the Croce Bianco headquarters to be eagerly consumed. I would point out that the average age of these Senora was probably about 78 and of course the polenta was made from homegrown, hand picked and home ground maize.
One of the many wonderful things about living in this area is that it is possible to find Carnival celebrations, Fairs, Sagras (festivals), Cenas (dinner and dancing), concerts and benefit nights happening almost every weekend of the year, especially in the summer months. It is a wonderful way to get to know the local people and their customs and visitors are always made especially welcome.
(Review written by Yvonne)
Asking price: € 140.000

Contact for more information: box@casealsole.com

Tipica casa della Lunigiana (nord Toscana) ubicata in un simpatico villaggio chiamato Codiponte che conserva ancora spiccate caratteristiche medievali. Nel video si vedono scorci del villaggio e si può notare l’atmosfera di pace che lo circonda. La casa è in buone condizioni generali con una parte già abitabile e una parte da ultimare. I tetti sono nuovi o ricontrollati. Dalla proprietà si gode una bella vista panoramica. Su di un lato della proprietà c’è un bel giardino recintato. Ai piedi del villaggio scorre il torrente Aulella dalle acque limpide e pescose.
Prezzo richiesto: € 140.000

► Focus on Tuscany

Sardinia: the road from Bosa to Alghero

Toracca — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 13:14:43 +0000

A sunny mid-spring morning, a short trip between the small medieval city of Bosa and the city of Alghero on the panoramic road hugging the coast. Two simple ingredients for a delightful experience involving all your senses. The intense scent of the Mediterranean scrub that covers the rocky hills, the spectacular views over the totally undeveloped countryside, the numerous beaches, some sandy, some formed of rock sculpted into exotic flowing and jagged shapes with natural swimmable pools. Breathtaking…

In una luminosa mattina di metà primavera, un breve viaggio tra la piccola città medievale di Bosa e la città di Alghero lungo la strada panoramica aggrappata alla costa. Due semplici ingredienti per una deliziosa esperienza che coinvolge tutti i nostri sensi. Il profumo intenso della macchia mediterranea che ricopre la costa rocciosa, il panorama spettacolare dell’interno, ancora tutto da scoprire, le numerose spiagge, alcune sabbiose, altre in insenature circondate da rocce scolpite dalla natura in forme fantastiche, che formano piscine naturali. Da rimanere senza fiato…

► Focus on Sardinia

Thank you Italia and Case-Homes: the web project

admin — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 11:47:35 +0000

In this video, Olivia presents Thank You Italia and Case-Homes web project.
CASE-HOMES deals with property: here you will find a vast selection of constantly updated interesting properties throughout Italy, posted by professional and efficient Italian Estate Agents who can expertly guide you through the process of buying a property in Italy.
THANKYOUITALIA deals with services. Professionals, Artisans, Companies, in fact everything Italian – Made in Italy – and all manner of services are listed under various categories for each Region, Province and local Italian Council. An easy way to locate what you need where you need it.

In questo video, Olivia presenta i progetti web Thank You Italia e Case-Homes.
CASE-HOMES riguarda le case di proprietà: qui troverete un’ampia selezione di case in vendita in tutta Italia, direttamente segnalate da agenzie immobiliari italiane che possono guidarti nelle procedure di acquisto di una proprietà in Italia.
THANKYOUITALIA riguarda i servizi. Professionisti, artigiani, società, e ogni altro tipo di attività italiana o prodotto “Made in Italy” sono raggruppati nelle diverse categorie, e ripartiti per regioni, province e comuni d’Italia. Un modo semplice per trovare il servizio giusto nel luogo giusto…

Tuscany: Lorenzelli Arredamenti Group

Toracca — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 07:26:02 +0000

The company, founded in 1956, has passed from father to son who now runs it professionally with pride and focus. The Lorenzelli Group deals mainly with furniture and lighting and most importantly will accompany the client through every phase, from planning to the completed project. Free estimates. In the large recently opened show rooms it is possible to see numerous displays and the prestigious brands available. Delivery to both mainland Italy and the islands.

L’ azienda, fondata nel 1956, è passata dal padre al figlio che attualmente la gestisce con professionalità, serietà e passione. Lorenzelli Group si occupa principalmente di arredamento, illuminazione, esegue preventivi gratuitamente ma soprattutto accompagna il cliente in tutte le fasi, dallo studio di progettazione sino al termine dei lavori. Nell’ ampia area espositiva, inaugurata di recente, è possibile visionare le numerose proposte e i marchi trattati tra i più noti e qualificati. Effettua consegne in tutta Italia ed isole.

Lorenzelli Arredamenti Group srl
Via Nazionale, 275
54011 Aulla
Massa Carrara
Lunigiana-Tuscany
Tel: +39 0187 420525
Fax: +39 0187 422819

► Focus on Tuscany

Sepino: discovering Molise

Michela — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 14:52:09 +0000

In the middle of the uncontaminated, green valley of the Tammaro river surrounded by the Matese mountains, Sepino is also a repository of thousands of years of glory, which make it a perfect destination for the lovers of nature and history. Its history is connected to that of the Matese mountain and the wealth of waters, still used today for the Sepinia mineral water and spa treatment, and in the vicinity one of the best preserved dinosaurs in Europe was found.

Proprio nel mezzo della verde ed incontaminata valle del fiume Tammaro, circondata dai monti del Matese, Sepino è depositaria di millenni di storia gloriosa, che ne fa meta perfetta per gli appassionati della natura e della storia. La sua storia è strettamente legata alle montagne dalle quali scaturisce una pregiata sorgente di acque minerali, ancora oggi utilizzata per l’imbottigliamento e per le cure termali. Nelle sue vicinanze sono stati rinvenuti i più antichi resti di dinosauri in Europa.

[source: ProLoco Sepino]

Fortress in Valle d’Aosta

admin — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:27:56 +0000

The Valdostane castles confirm a particularly wealthy feudal history that offers a steady flow of picturesque history: medieval buildings were often built and raised on previous highland fortresses from Roman times; military bulwarks and noble residences, points of control along the compulsory passes (Bard Fortress and Fénis Castle are renowned), perimeters and facades with different styles, the weaponry of the visitable interiors, as well as the cultural interests, to impress you in a magical atmosphere, almost like “doors back in time” or… dimensional passages into your imagination.

I castelli valdostani sono testimonianze di una storia feudale particolarmente ricca e di una continuità storica suggestiva: spesso le costruzioni medioevali si sono appoggiate ed innalzate su precedenti alture fortificate d’epoca romana; baluardi militari e dimore di signori, punti di controllo lungo passaggi obbligati (sono celebri il Forte di Bard e il castello di Fénis), perimetri e facciate di stili diversi, armature di interni visitabili, oltre che per interesse culturale, per lasciarsi permeare da atmosfere magiche, quasi “porte nel tempo” o… varchi dimensionali per l’immaginazione.

[Source: Regione Valle d'Aosta]

The National Park of Sibillini mountains

Michela — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:21:54 +0000

Wherever you may find yourself in the Marche, the Apennine mountains are never very far away. They form the region’s western border and offer some of its finest scenery as well as providing a home for some of Italy’s most fascinating wildlife. Large areas have now been designated natural parks.
The Natural Park of Monti Sibillini, in the southwest corner, is the region’s largest park, spreading over 40 km of mountain peaks and continuing westwards into Umbria. The mountains take their name from a legend that one of the sibyls hid here in a cave on Monte Sibilla known as Grotta delle Fate (Cave of the Fairies) when she was chased out of the underworld.

Ovunque ti trovi, nelle Marche, gli Appennini non sono mai molto lontani. Formano il confine occidentale della regione e offrono, oltre ad alcuni tra i più incantevoli, anche ospitalità ad una numerosa e affascinante fauna.
Gran parte del territorio è stato da tempo vincolato da parchi nazionali.
Il Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini, nell’angolo sud-ovest della regione, è il più grande delle Marche, estendendosi per oltre 40 km di picchi e continuando verso ovest fino all’Umbria. I monti prendono nome da una leggenda secondo la quale all’interno di una caverna, nota con il nome di Grotta delle Fate, trovava rifugio la Sibilla dopo la sua fuga dal mondo sotterraneo.

[source: Sito Ufficiale dei Monti Sibillini]

The nine Sacri Monti in Piedmont and Lombardy

admin — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:43:34 +0000

UNESCO registered in 2003, on the list of World Heritage Sites, the “Cultural Landscape of the Sacred Mountains of Piemonte and Lombardy” with this motivation: “The nine Sacri Monti (Sacred Mountains) of northern Italy are groups of chapels and other architectural features created in the late 16th and 17th centuries and dedicated to different aspects of the Christian faith. In addition to their symbolic spiritual meaning, they are of great beauty by virtue of the skill with which they have been integrated into the surrounding natural landscape of hills, forests and lakes. They also house much important artistic material in the form of wall paintings and statuary.”.
The seven Sacred Mounts of Piemonte (Belmonte, Crea, Domodossola, Ghiffa, Oropa, Orta and Varallo) and the two of Lombardia (Ossuccio and Varese), show an extraordinary value of history, of art and of nature.
The series of chapels, which, with statues, paintings and frescos tell episodes and mysteries of sacred life, merge with the welcoming environmental surroundings, and contribute to define the features of each monumental complex. Valuable examples of landscape architecture, the Sacred Mounts are important meeting places for the faithful and for lovers of art.

Nel 2003 l’UNESCO ha iscritto il sito “Sacri Monti del Piemonte e della Lombardia” nella Lista del Patrimonio Mondiale, con questa motivazione: “I nove Sacri Monti dell’Italia settentrionale sono gruppi di cappelle e altri manufatti architettonici eretti fra il XVI e il XVII secolo, dedicati a differenti aspetti della fede cristiana. In aggiunta al loro significato simbolico e spirituale, possiedono notevoli doti di bellezza, virtù e gradevolezza, e risultano integrati in un ambiente naturale e paesaggistico di colline, boschi e laghi. Contengono inoltre reperti artistici molto importanti (affreschi e statue).”
Il prestigioso riconoscimento attribuisce un valore universale a sette Sacri Monti del Piemonte (Belmonte, Crea, Domodossola, Ghiffa, Oropa, Orta e Varallo) e due della Lombardia (Ossuccio e Varese).
La teoria di cappelle che attraverso statue, dipinti e affreschi, racconta episodi e misteri della vita sacra, si amalgama con l’accogliente contesto ambientale e contribuisce a definire i lineamenti di ciascun complesso monumentale. Pregevoli esempi di architettura del paesaggio, i Sacri Monti costituiscono un importante punto d’incontro per i fedeli e i cultori dell’arte.

[View with PicLens]

[source: SacriMonti.net, UNESCO]

Puglia: a Region for all seasons

Michela — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:42:53 +0000

Crystal blue sea, green countryside, intense red terrain, golden sunsets….From Porto Cesareo to Peschici, from Bari to Taranto, from Vieste to Brindisi, from Otranto to the Tremiti Islands, you can experience a multitude of emotions holidaying in Puglia all year round.
A trip through art, culture, nature, food and religion in the Apulia Region.

Mare azzurro, verde natura, terra rosso intenso, tramonti dorati… Da Porto Cesareo a Peschici, da Bari a Taranto, da Vieste a Brindisi, da Otranto alle Isole Tremiti, le vacanze in Puglia sono emozioni multicolore per tutto l’anno.
Un viaggio tra arte, cultura, natura, enogastronomia e religione della Regione Puglia.

[source: Viaggiare in Puglia]