Latest news with #Etruscan
The Herald Scotland
15 hours ago
- The Herald Scotland
Experience Italy's 'green heart' with a five-night holiday in Umbria
Many visitors will choose to begin their adventure in Perugia, Umbria's vibrant capital. Wander through the historic Piazza IV Novembre, where the Gothic Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the ornate Fontana Maggiore stand as testaments to the city's rich past. Explore the subterranean Rocca Paolina fortress, a hidden world beneath the city streets, offering a unique glimpse into medieval life. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the National Gallery of Umbria, housing masterpieces from the Middle Ages and Renaissance. A short drive brings you to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. The town's crowning jewel, the Basilica of St. Francis, is adorned with frescoes that narrate the saint's life and legacy. Stroll through flower-lined streets and absorb the tranquil atmosphere that has inspired pilgrims for centuries. Umbria's fertile lands yield culinary treasures and visitors can join local truffle hunter on a quest for these elusive delicacies. After the hunt, you can savour dishes infused with your finds which are paired with regional wines. Family-run wineries are also a popular attraction in this region, such as Castello di Monte Vibiano where thirsty travellers can sample organic wines and learn about traditional olive oil production. Once ably refreshed, nature enthusiasts can then explore Lake Trasimeno in the provence of Perugia, which is Italy's fourth-largest lake and ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. For thrills and spills, white-water rafting on the Nera River is also an option, navigating rapids that flow through the stunning Marmore Waterfalls, one of Europe's tallest man-made cascades. Visitors can then also discover the medieval allure of towns like Spello, with its panoramic views over the Tiber Valley, and Spoleto, known for its ancient Roman architecture and hilltop fortress. In Orvieto, marvel at the intricate façade of the Gothic cathedral and delve into the city's Etruscan roots through its underground caves. The wheel deal TO fully immerse yourself in Umbria's offerings, consider renting a car from Rome Airport which can be fully organised by Orbis Travels. With rates starting from £50 per car for five nights, you gain the freedom to explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems and picturesque landscapes along the way. And as a picturesque base, travellers couldn't ask for a more perfectly-located sanctuary than former Franciscan Monastery Abbazia Collemedio Resort and Spa, which boasts a spectacular outdoor swimming pool, free parking for guests, a truly stunning spa and wellness centre, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms and a well-stocked, atmospheric bar area. Travellers who wish to embark upon this unforgettable journey through Umbria can book now at to experience a holiday where every moment is a step into a living tapestry of history, culture and natural beauty. Or telephone 0208 051 0956 Travel notes: Round-trip flights to Rome from Edinburgh From just £399 per person Classic Double or Twin Room Half-Board (Excluding drinks) ACCOMMODATION Abbazia Collemedio Resort and Spa UMBRIA, ITALY SET in the heart of green Umbria, just a few kilometres from world-famous destinations such as Perugia, Todi, Bevagna, Montefalco, and Assisi, Abbazia Collemedio is a charming retreat with a rich history. Once a monastery inhabited by monks, it has been beautifully transformed into a hotel, blending its historic charm with modern comforts. Thanks to its strategic location, Abbazia Collemedio is the perfect base for those wishing to escape the city and explore the medieval hilltop towns of Umbria, along with the region's most renowned cultural and culinary attractions. The property offers 55 comfortable rooms, a cosy and exclusive restaurant, a swimming pool ideal for relaxing on warm sunny days, a tennis court, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the estate, and a meeting room that can accommodate between 20 and 100 delegates. (Image: .) Spanning 130 square metres, the spa features a relaxation area with herbal teas, a swimming pool with hydromassage, a Finnish shower with chromotherapy, a sauna, and a Turkish bath. A massage room and a range of beauty treatments are also available to enhance your experience. Classic rooms offer 18 square metres of comfortable space with a choice of either a double bed or twin beds. Furnished in a traditional style, the flooring is either parquet or terracotta, and the curtains are in soft pastel tones. These rooms accommodate up to two guests. On request, a limited number of rooms can be equipped with an extra bed or a crib. Some rooms are arranged over two levels. In-room amenities include individually controlled heating and air conditioning, an LCD television, a writing desk, a telephone, a safe, a minibar, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. All bathrooms are fitted with a shower cubicle and come with a hairdryer and a courtesy set of toiletries. Dine in style THE Abbazia Collemedio Restaurant is an ideal setting, offering a touch of exclusivity, to savour the finest Umbrian and Italian cuisine. The hotel's chef invites you on a culinary journey where traditional pasta dishes are thoughtfully reimagined in line with modern culinary trends, creating a perfect harmony of flavour and innovation. The dining experience is further enhanced by a carefully curated wine list, featuring some of the most exclusive Umbrian and Italian labels. The ambience of the restaurant is both welcoming and refined, with interiors inspired by rustic country charm. Large windows frame breathtaking views, perfect for watching the sunset as it dips behind the hills of Todi. Travellers who wish to embark upon this unforgettable journey through Umbria can book now at
Forbes
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Orogami To Present Diverse Luxury Jewelry Collections At Couture Show
The 18-karat gold Orogami Seed of Capri collection is set with gemstones that embody colors of the ... More island's vibrant flowers and blue-green waters. 'Fortune favors the bold,' and this rings especially true for jewelers, who invest finances, time and energies into creating luxuries that often take months or years to yield returns. Nevertheless, the Italian goldsmiths Tiziana and Massimo Aloisio, co-founders of Orogami fine jewelry, embody proof of the ancient saying's truth, as by any objective standard, they are boldly prolific and artistically successful. Orogami encompasses 18 distinct and stylistically varied fine jewelry ranges, all of them are classic, and many of them are gender-fluid in style and appeal. With a unique narrative animating each collection, there is thus a story inside of each Orogami design. As the Orvieto-based Aloisios explained during a Zoom interview, 'Our jewels are designed and made in Italy, and they are talismans with meaning besides being beautiful adornments.' Orogami's widely resonant designs distinguish the brand as a creator of heirlooms, and it will be exhibiting at the Couture Show, held at the Wynn Las Vegas, from the 4th till the 8th of June, in Cristal Ballroom, booth #630. From Orgami's Seed collection, this 18-karat yellow gold bracelet is a sculptural jewel and a ... More meditation on the essential life force of seeds. Sparkling in its 35th year, Orogami derives its name from "Oro," the Italian word for gold, and "Gamos," the ancient Greek word for wedding. 'Our company name means union in gold,' Tiziana explained, 'it also holds a deeper significance, embodying the Japanese word 'Imagoro,' meaning 'about this time.' This underlying philosophy infuses each collection with a timeless essence, capturing the spirit of the present moment. Moreover, our logo," she continued, "is an Etruscan rose, which is the Western version of the Far East's lotus flower, a symbol of life.' The Aloisios both studied classical art, architecture, and jewelry history, and have restored ancient Etruscan jewelry for various museums. Their Orogami collections retail worldwide through their e-commerce platform and they are initiating retail partnerships within the USA and other countries. Orogami's Labyrinth collection is based on the belief that each one of us must boldly walk our own ... More path through life. While space limitations prohibit discussion of all Orogami collections, one of the most intriguing ones is the Labyrinth, which is available in 18-karat white, 18-karat yellow gold, and 18-karat rose gold. This collection elevates the age-old symbolism of the labyrinth through a dynamic and meaningful element: a moving stone. This precious gem, delicately set within the design, becomes the tangible representation of our self-walking along the winding path of life. Its free movement within the confines of the labyrinth constantly reminds us of the necessity to persevere, not to get lost in uncertainties, but to always maintain direction towards the intended goal, towards the full realization of our potential. (Cuff links, necklaces, rings, earrings, and pendants comprise this range.) For example, 'Labyrinth pendants come with a silk cord, and there are six silk cord colors to choose from,' Massimo explained. 'Inspired by the moving stone's representation of our life's journey and the need to stay true to ourselves, some clients will, over time, add a new stone to their personal labyrinth as a tangible reminder of a significant moment or a cherished goal.' As with any labyrinth, Massimo summarized, 'The goal is to stay on path to reach the center. These jewels remind us to stay centered.' FEATURED | Frase ByForbes™ Unscramble The Anagram To Reveal The Phrase Pinpoint By Linkedin Guess The Category Queens By Linkedin Crown Each Region Crossclimb By Linkedin Unlock A Trivia Ladder Handmade in Italy, the Bubbles collection by Orogami makes a festive yet classic statement with ... More graceful design, richly hued gemstones and master artisanship. Orogami's Seed of Life collection poignantly reminds us of Nature's regenerative power. 'We designed Seed of Life after September 11, 2001.' Tiziana said. 'We lost friends during that tragedy, and we honor them with this collection, which encapsulates the consciousness of our creative acts, emphasizing the profound impact of every thought, word, and deed. Encouraging kindness, compassion, and positivity, the Seed Collection urges us to nurture these seeds within ourselves and others, fostering a world where love and understanding flourish abundantly.' The circular motif, also present in the Seed of Life bracelet, stands as Orogami's signature, a visual echo of the designers' deepest wish. Inspired by the circle's ancient representation of life across diverse cultures, this motif conveys a heartfelt wish for a long and prosperous life. Then there is the Seed of Capri collection, an outgrowth of the Seed of Life, which is the Aloisios way of celebrating the beautiful island that hosted the Orogami store for years, a heartfelt tribute to a place they deeply admire. Crafted from 18k gold and adorned with composite stones, each piece radiates the island's kaleidoscope of colors and textures. 'The gems in Seed of Capri are cut by one of Italy's most renowned stonecutters, a father and son lapidary duo, who also have worked for Bulgari and Cartier,' the Aloisios related. 'The island of Capri is a natural wonder, and the blue mother-of-pearl and rock crystal jewels in this collection were inspired by the unforgettable color of the water in Capri's Blue Grotto, which is a magical, azure sea cave that can be visited by boat.' Alive with buoyant shapes, precious gemstones and negative space, the Bubbles collection by Orogami ... More is a timeless and intricate range. Created after their daughter Angelica graduated high school, the best-selling Bubbles collection references how bubbles give champagne its festive fizz; how bubbles remain on the beach after the tide has receded, and how the floating iridescence of soap bubbles look magically colorful, bright and light. 'Bubbles also grew out of what we told Angelica as she left for university,' Massimo recalled. 'Quoting the Eleanor Roosevelt saying - the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams, we told her to keep her dreams alive.' Made in 18K rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold, the Bubble collection looks and feels full of lightness and purity. This writer found the two-sided Bubble pendant with enhancer a versatile, as well as beautiful, design which can be worn on either side for two looks. The fact that it can easily detach for wear on various chains or cords is another plus. As Tiziana and Massimo's daughter Angelica works alongside them, Orogami is now a heritage brand, one committed to a more sustainable future. As she explained during the Zoom interview, 'I studied economics in Milano and have a Master of Science degree in global business management. My dissertation documented how sustainable practices can factor into textile production to make the industry friendlier to our planet and our society.' The Orogami "We Wear Art" sustainable silk scarf collection embodies imagery from frescos that adorn ... More the interior of Orvieto's cathedral. Her university studies in sustainable business continue to pay dividends for Orogami operations and for Orvieto's famed cathedral (the Duomo). Recently, Angelica spearheaded an initiative that bridges the worlds of fine art and applied art called 'We Wear Art.' As she explained, 'We Wear Art is an OROGAMI sustainable silk scarf project that celebrates and communicates the beauty, power, and cultural importance of fine art. In the We Wear Art Orvieto Collection,' she detailed, 'historically renowned artworks from the cathedral of Orvieto are reproduced on sustainable Italian silk scarves that come in five different sizes: Twilly (13x43 inches), Man Pocket Square (18x18inches), Smaller Carré 27.5x27.5 inches, Classical Carré (35.5x35.5 inches) and Shawl (18x71 inches).' Orogami is donating a percentage of each scarf purchase to the Opera of the Duomo of Orvieto to support the preservation of its artistic heritage. For example, Luca Signorelli's fresco series in the San Brizio Chapel of the cathedral. The Orvieto collection's Trumpeter Angel scarf faithfully reproduces part of a fresco from the chapel of San Brizio, located in the right transept of the cathedral, which was built between 1408 and 1444. (This chapel is famous for its frescoes depicting the Last Judgment, begun by the painter Beato Angelico in 1447 and completed by Luca Signorelli in 1499-1502.) As Signorelli was the first artist to paint bodies in perspective, his work made a deep and haunting impact on his contemporaries—and on art history. Churchgoers had literally never seen any images like that before. 'In his day, this was considered Signorelli's greatest work,' Angelica explained, 'due to the grandeur of its size and its graphic imagery. We took great care during the photographic process,' she added, 'to ensure that the colors faithfully reproduced the hues in these precious, world-renowned artworks.' Other scarves from Orogami depict details from various Orvieto cathedral areas. For example, Orogami's scarf of the Musician Angel is reproduced from mosaics that adorn the cathedral's façade: these were based on a 13th century drawing and completed in the 19th century. 18-karat white gold, diamond and colored gemstone Bubble earrings embody a painterly color sense and ... More sculpturally strong structure that's reminiscent of Italian mosaics Each of the scarves in the We Wear Art collection is made of 100% Italian organic silk, and is finished by hand and certified GOTS. (This appellation is an abbreviation of the Global Organic Textile Standard, the world's pre-eminent certification system for organic textiles.) 'GOTS certification,' Angelica said, 'ensures that a given textile is made from organic fibers and was processed sustainably throughout the entire textile process, from fiber production to the finished product. GOTS certification also ensures that materials are organic, all manufacturing processes are environmentally and socially responsible, and that the products are safe for consumers.' As Angelica ventured, 'Thanks largely to the Opera of the Duomo of Orvieto, the We Wear Art initiative is succeeding.' This autonomous body, she related, 'is responsible for the maintenance and conservation of the cathedral, and administration of its assets. It's extremely satisfying to be working with the cathedral on preserving its masterpieces, while uniting Orogami with Orvieto's artistic heritage.' This Orogami scarf design reproduces bejeweled mosacis that adorn the facade of the Duomo of ... More Orvieto, Italy. Speaking of artistic heritage, the Aloisios gave birth to their very own through serendipitous circumstances. 'We found ourselves seated next to each other in 1990 on a flight from Rome to Milan,' Massimo recalled. 'Neither of us intended to take it due to scheduling problems.' When Massimo gave Tiziana his business card on that flight, Tiziana recalled with a laugh, 'I could never have imagined we'd start a family in addition to a prolific fine jewelry collection that's going strong after 35 years. What good fortune! We are all looking forward to showing Orogami in Las Vegas this June.'
Yahoo
27-04-2025
- Yahoo
How to plan a multi-generational vacation to Maremma in Tuscany
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Southern Tuscany offers a quieter, more authentic escape to big-hitters such as Lucca and Siena, with a landscape defined by rolling vineyards, medieval hilltop towns and an unspoilt coastline. The Maremma region is an ideal base for multi-generational stays, and yet it's still easily accessible from Florence to the north and Rome to the south in about two hours by car. Whether you seek luxury, adventure or relaxation, this pocket of Southern Tuscany delivers an unforgettable experience for all generations. The highlight of any trip, these naturally occurring hot springs were regarded as a gift from the gods by the Romans and Etruscans. They can be enjoyed for free at the Cascate del Mulino. Arrive at dawn to see the sun rise while bathing in the mineral-rich, 37.5C sulphurous springs; bring shoes as the pools' mineral deposits can be sharp on the feet. Families with teens might want to trade up for the luxury experience at the Terme di Saturnia Resort, which has sunloungers by the water and spa treatments. Plan for a day at this free beach, one of two strips of sand connecting the Argentario peninsula to the mainland. It's part of the eastern lagoon within the protected area that bears the same name: the Duna Feniglia Nature Reserve. A forest of centuries-old maritime pines runs along the beach for four miles, with restaurants and beach bars dotted along the coastline. Head to the centre of the beach for the softest sand and clearest water. Step into a real-life Indiana Jones adventure at the Etruscan tombs in the city of Tarquinia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, in the Necropoli dei Monterozzi, history unfolds in a series of underground chambers with well-preserved 2,500-year-old frescoes. Vivid paintings of banquets, musicians, dancers and mythical creatures offer a rare glimpse into the ancient world. A compact site, it's easy to navigate and an immersive experience for families. Southern Tuscany's prestigious hilltop winemaking towns of Montalcino and Montepulciano are just inland from Maremma. While vineyard tours might not work for families, some villa agencies can organise private, in-villa group tasting sessions with Tuscan winemakers. The adults get to learn about the viticulture traditions of local family-run and organic farms, while kids can come and go as they please, dipping into wine-pairing snacks. Published in the May 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
National Geographic
27-04-2025
- National Geographic
How to plan a multi-generational vacation to Maremma in Tuscany
Medieval hilltop towns, an unspoilt coastline and steamy hot springs make the Maremma region ideal for multi-generational holidays. This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Southern Tuscany offers a quieter, more authentic escape to big-hitters such as Lucca and Siena, with a landscape defined by rolling vineyards, medieval hilltop towns and an unspoilt coastline. The Maremma region is an ideal base for multi-generational stays, and yet it's still easily accessible from Florence to the north and Rome to the south in about two hours by car. Whether you seek luxury, adventure or relaxation, this pocket of Southern Tuscany delivers an unforgettable experience for all generations. Saturnia hot springs The highlight of any trip, these naturally occurring hot springs were regarded as a gift from the gods by the Romans and Etruscans. They can be enjoyed for free at the Cascate del Mulino. Arrive at dawn to see the sun rise while bathing in the mineral-rich, 37.5C sulphurous springs; bring shoes as the pools' mineral deposits can be sharp on the feet. Families with teens might want to trade up for the luxury experience at the Terme di Saturnia Resort, which has sunloungers by the water and spa treatments. Feniglia beach Plan for a day at this free beach, one of two strips of sand connecting the Argentario peninsula to the mainland. It's part of the eastern lagoon within the protected area that bears the same name: the Duna Feniglia Nature Reserve. A forest of centuries-old maritime pines runs along the beach for four miles, with restaurants and beach bars dotted along the coastline. Head to the centre of the beach for the softest sand and clearest water. Sartomare boasts a large infinity pool, treehouse, football field, tennis court, gym and more on a 75-acre estate along Tuscany's southern coast. Photograph by Carlo Alberto Conti Etruscan tombs Step into a real-life Indiana Jones adventure at the Etruscan tombs in the city of Tarquinia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, in the Necropoli dei Monterozzi, history unfolds in a series of underground chambers with well-preserved 2,500-year-old frescoes. Vivid paintings of banquets, musicians, dancers and mythical creatures offer a rare glimpse into the ancient world. A compact site, it's easy to navigate and an immersive experience for families. Wine-tasting for adults Southern Tuscany's prestigious hilltop winemaking towns of Montalcino and Montepulciano are just inland from Maremma. While vineyard tours might not work for families, some villa agencies can organise private, in-villa group tasting sessions with Tuscan winemakers. The adults get to learn about the viticulture traditions of local family-run and organic farms, while kids can come and go as they please, dipping into wine-pairing snacks. Set on a 75-acre estate along the southern Tuscan coast, Sartomare is a fully staffed private retreat with sweeping 360-degree views of Maremma and Argentario. There's plenty of space for multi-generational families or groups to spread out; the grounds include a large infinity pool, treehouse, football field, tennis court, gym and an outdoor pizza oven, while inside there's a kids' playroom and seven bedrooms, including five with en suite bathrooms. It's around a two-hour drive from both Rome and Florence. Prices start at £23,800 per week. Published in the May 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK) To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Local Italy
02-04-2025
- General
- Local Italy
Italian expression of the day: 'Mettere la mano sul fuoco'
If you hear someone in Italy say metterei la mano sul fuoco, don't be alarmed. It literally means 'I would put my hand on the fire' – but it's not an invitation to witness a risky dare. Instead, it's a common Italian expression used to show you're absolutely certain about something - so confident, in fact, that you'd place your hand in the fire to prove it (click here to hear it pronounced). The story behind the phrase traces back to the early days of ancient Rome, in the 6th century BC. During a siege by the Etruscans, a noble Roman youth named Gaius Mucius Cordus (later known as Gaius Mucius Scaevola, meaning 'left-handed', for reasons that will become apparent below) wanted to take matters into his own hands and end the conflict by assassinating the Etruscan king, Porsena. However, Mucius accidentally killed the wrong person (the king's scribe) and was captured by the enemy. To demonstrate his bravery and unflinching commitment to Rome, Mucius placed his right hand into a flame on an altar until it burned up completely, declaring: 'I came here as an enemy to kill my enemy, and I am as ready to die as I am to kill. We Romans act bravely and, when adversity strikes, we suffer bravely.' Impressed and frightened by his resolve and courage, Porsena freed Mucius, and the two sides eventually reached peace. M ettere la mano sul fuoco has since come to symbolise unwavering certainty, just as Mucius's act represented his absolute commitment to Rome. So, if you hear someone say they'd 'put their hand on the fire', they're telling you they're absolutely sure about something. On the flip side, if they say non ci metterei la mano sul fuoco, it means they're not so confident and wouldn't be willing to take the bet. Sei sicuro che il treno arriverà in orario? Sono sicuro. Ci metterei la mano sul fuoco. Are you sure the train will arrive on time? I'm certain. I'd bet on it. Pensi che la partita sia già decisa? Non ci metterei la mano sul fuoco. Do you think the game is already decided? I wouldn't bet on it. Whether used to express certainty about directions, decisions or even pizza, mettere la mano sul fuoco is a powerful way to show you're 100-percent sure about something - just like Quintus Mucius Scaevola was in his dedication to Rome. Do you have an Italian word you'd like us to feature? If so, please email us with your suggestion. Don't miss any of our Italian words and expressions of the day by downloading our app (available on Apple and Android) and then selecting the Italian Word of the Day in your Notification options via the User button.
