Ancient Roman port ruins
Rome, Rome 00119
+39 6 5635 8099
http://www.itnw.roma.it/ostia/...
ostia@arti.beniculturali.it
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Ancient Roman port ruins |
717 Via dei Romagnoli Rome, Rome 00119 +39 6 5635 8099 http://www.itnw.roma.it/ostia/... ostia@arti.beniculturali.it |
For at least 600 years this was a busy port, but the area declined suddenly following a reduction in commerce, and the onset of malaria. Covered by sand and mud that accumulated over the centuries, it was perfectly preserved and has therefore survived intact. The Baths of Cisiarii and the Baths of Neptune can be seen, with their lovely black and white mosaic floors. The theatre has been restored, a series of large masks having been set on to blocks of rock that originally adorned the building. Leaving the main street, you reach the areas where the inhabitants used to live, the style of the homes differing according to whether the residents were workers, or traders and shippers. Workmen and sailors lived in "insule", like present day blocks of flats, while the richer classes had fine homes decorated with colourful mosaics and statues. The remains that have been discovered are exhibited in the museum nearby, which also displays bas-reliefs and objects connected to the cult of Mithra, very popular in Imperial Rome. Admission: EUR 5 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert Grant |
 Photo: Linda Lukasiewicz |
 Photo: Vincenzo Fiore |
 Photo: N. A. Johnson |
 Photo: Vittoria Bernardini |
 Photo: Rossella64 |
 Photo: Clare Forster |
 Photo: Sophie Jongeneel |
 Photo: Scott T. |
 Photo: Austin |
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A port filled with things to do and see |
Ponte Spinola Area Porto Antico Genoa 16128 |
The layout of the whole area and the various architectural constructions in the Old Port, among which is the now famous Aquarium which was built by Renzo Piano for the international Expo of 1992 in commemoration of the 5th centenary of the discovery of America, have now become a perfect example of the coexistence of old buildings and modern edifices. The salvaging and refurbishment of the historic port and of the old town centre nearby, have all helped in the re-establishment of the tourist trade within the city. The new "marinaro" area is constantly brought to life through sound, light and colour and has various attractions dedicated to free time and culture. Therefore, Genoa is no longer solely a city of art, but also a seaside town offering child-size fun and relaxation. If one enters from the main entrance in piazza Caricamento, the first thing to be seen is the large profile of the Acquario di Genova, the largest one in Europe, which resembles a large ship moored on the dock at Ponte Spinola, from which extends a splendid pathway, the Via del Mare, which leads straight to the "floating" Piazza del Mare. Other places of interest are the Galleon (used by Roman Polansky in the film "the Pirates"), the buildings of the Cotton Stores (Cineplex, modern multiscreen, Cinemotion in 3 D, Video games, the great Music Store, the Città dei Bambini, la De Amicis Library, the Padiglione del Mare e della Navigazione), the original Museo Nazionale dell'Antartide "Felice Ippolito", housed in the Millo, and even the imposing Porta Siberia (o del Molo), with the nearby pool-theatre, the Mandraccio and various commercial outlets, as well as the cafés and the restaurants. During the winter months the Piazza delle Feste has an ice-skating rink, while during the summer various concerts and plays are held there. A must is a trip on the Bigo, the rotating panoramic lift which offers a view over the entire city. The 16th and 17th century buildings of the Deposito Franco have been carefully restored and are now the headquarters for Porto Antico S.p.A, the management and operating company for the whole complex. They also house the Tourist Information Office, where one can obtain up to the minute news of events being organised within the area where the expo was once held. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Aube insanité  |
A walk through history |
42 Via Appia Antica Rome, Rome 00179 +39 6 512 6314 / +39 6 513 0682 http://www.parcoappiaantica.org info@parcoappiaantica.org |
The ancient Appian Way was the most important of the consular roads. It was inaugurated in 312 B.C. by censor Appius Claudius Ciecus after whom it was named. The road was especially important for economic reasons as it connected Rome with the south of Italy. Initially it only went as far as Capua along the Pontine marshes, but was later extended to Benevento and then all the way to Brindisi, which encouraged trade with the eastern Mediterranean. This last stretch lost importance however when the Appia Traia Way was opened that stretched down to Bari. Lined with pines and cypress trees, the road is very attractive, particularly where the original paving can be seen. There are many remains of Roman constructions that testify to its ancient splendour and archaeological importance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah |
 Photo: mysterybridgers |
 Photo: Kate |
 Photo: Andrew Johnson |
 Photo: Emily Bristor |
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A hymn to peace |
Lungotevere in Augusta Rome 00186 +39 0636003471 |
The altar, commissioned by the Senate following pacification work launched by Emperor Augustus, dates from 9 BC. The first panels were found in 1500 and ended up in Paris and Florence. Made from marble and beautifully sculpted, probably by Greek artists, the panels formed an enclosure around a base with an altar in the centre. The figures are from the imperial family. Restoration work was begun in 1938. Now the altar is protected by a glass covering. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: marco polimeni Chet4 |
 Photo: Chase Goitia |
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Tribute to Constantine |
Via San Gregorio Piazza del Colosseo Rome, Rome 00184 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The Arch of Constantine is particularly interesting because it is like a jigsaw made up of other monuments. It was built using material from Trajan's Forum, from where the statues of the Dacian prisoners and the friezes representing Marcus Aurelius were also taken. The Arch was erected at the beginning of the fourth century in honour of Constantine, following the victory over Maxentius. It is considered one of the last great monuments to be constructed by the Romans. It stands beside the Colosseum in the huge square which in summer is the site for one of the events of the 'Estate Romana'. A huge screen is hung from the arch, onto which films and videos are projected. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joyce A Neville |
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 Photo: Tony Serra |
 Photo: Amy V. Fountain |
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Triumphal gate |
Piazza Sempione Milan, Milan 20121 |
With the fortifications for Castello Sforzesco destroyed in 1801 under Napoleon's instructions, a large space was created for the Piazza Sempione but a monumental construction was also required to mark the entrance to the city. The arch was begun in 1807 in honour of Napoleon and only finished in 1838 (for the occasion of the coronation of Ferdinando I as King of Lombardy-Venetia.) by the neoclassical architect Luigi Cagnola, inspired by Settimo Severo's arch in Rome. The result was a structure involving three colossal Corinthian columns with isolated customs boxes either side. The arch is made of granite from Baveno and adorned with marble from Crevola di Ossola, surmounted by the famous 'sestiga della pace' (the work of Abbondio Sangiorio) and by four statues of victorious men on horseback. On the trabeation the four rivers of Lombardy-Venetia are featured: the Po, the Ticino, the Adige and the Tagliamento) surrounded by bas-reliefs that feature episodes from the Restoration. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: paolo sala |
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The highest tower in Bologna |
Piazza di Porta Ravegnana Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40125 |
Standing in the centre of the Piazza di Porta Ravenna, the highest tower in Bologna, an emblematic symbol of the 'towered city' lofts 97 meters into the sky, undisputed queen of the Bolognese rooftop panorama. Legend says that this tower was built by the Asinelli family at the beginning of the twelfth century. It has strong foundations and it is surrounded by a protective railing. At its summit it displays the Guelf battlements. The 498 steps take you to the very top, from where you can enjoy a really incredible view. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Walter Ferraris |
 Photo: Didrik Johnck |
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Old village on the upland plain |
Via Gruden Trieste |
The existence of the village of Basovizza has been documented since 1300. It is a small place on the upland plains, about ten minutes from the centre of Trieste. In the centre there is a small trattoria, in an old post office, and there are a few houses around the church of Santa Maria Maddalena, built on the remains of an old church of 1336. In the piazza, there is a cistern, whose stone dates from 1816. It is close to the border with Slovenia and the futuristic underground workshop of Elettra, where hundreds of scientists work with electronics. There is plenty of parking space in the village, which is within walking distance of the San Lorenzo area, which offers a superb view and the Draga Sant'Elia, a small agricultural area where the farmers sell their produce directly to the public. For more information, contact the tourist information office. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: elisabetta2005 |
 Photo: aletta73 |
 Photo: Stefano |
House for orphans in the 15th century |
Piazza del Duomo Florence 50122 |
At the start of via Calzaiouli stands this Loggia. It was named by Bigallo when he transferred his confraternity, bearing his name, and merged it with the Misericordia confraternity, the first owners of the Loggia which had been built between 1353 and 1358 by Alberto Arnoldi. The confraternity mainly gave a home to orphans who were housed in the Loggetta so they might be recognised, if by some chance they had merely been lost. The arches are carefully decorated and closed in with iron gates. High up on the side of the Piazza del Duomo, the statues in tabernacles were moved from the previous site of the Confraternity in Orsanmichele and depict the Madonna and Child, Santa Lucia and San Pietro Martire, the founder of the Confraternity in 1244. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: foto daniel |
 Photo: Asel Luzarraga |
District founded by the Austrian Empress Maria Teresa d'Austria |
Chinatown Downtown Trieste, Trieste |
In the 18th century the medieval walls were knocked down and the saltworks were reclaimed - in doing this, Maria Teresa of Austria transformed Trieste into one of the most important ports in Europe. The city centre was moved from the hills to the plain, and many modern areas, lived in by merchants, began to be developed on some land which was partially reclaimed from the sea. The new buildings were generally built in the neoclassical style. This area between Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia and the central railway station, is known as the Borgo Teresiano, from the name of the Empress. There are lots of small clothes shops in this district whose main clients are from Slovenia and Croatia. Since 1999, the traffic filled streets of the Borgo - where a walk can prove very interesting - have begun to turn into a small Chinatown with the opening of many new shops selling accessories, food, and clothing imported from the Orient and run by young Chinese people. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: maledimiele |
Bridge of Sighs |
Sestiere di San Marco Venice 30124 |
Some legends say that the Ponte dei Sospiri was called the Bridge of Sighs because it was a rendezvous for lovers; however, the truth tells a much sadder tale. The bridge, in fact was built to convey magistrates to the courts and prisoners to their fates. However, the baroque bridge, designed by Antonio Contino, still has a very romantic air to it, and remains an important historical landmark in Venice today. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Larry Leonard |
 Photo: Pattie |
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 Photo: Rachael Morgan |
 Photo: Ed Chronister |
 Photo: Ronald Johnston |
 Photo: Julie Jenkins |
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 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
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Unlucky bridge |
Lungotevere Pierleoni Rome, Rome 00186 |
Originally named Emilius, (193 B.C.), this was the first stone bridge: it was suitable for the passage of heavily laden carts that could not cross the Sublicius bridge, which was made of timber. Its slanting position meant that it was prone to water damage, and half the bridge was destroyed by a violent flood in the late 16th century. This is why it is called Ponte Rotto (broken bridge). Today it can best be seen from the Palatino Bridge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dvdadm |
Famous for its lace making |
Burano Burano 30012 |
In this little town located on an island of the Venetian lagoon, the houses are painted in varied bright colours, giving a picturesque and cheerful character to the setting, which kids always love. Burano is famous for its lacemaking, a skill that has developed here since the 16th century; various shops offer lacemaking demonstrations. To admire more of this craft, head to the Scuola di Merletti which has a museum displaying all kinds of amazing lacework: tablecloths, fans, collars and shawls. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: A. Schleifenbaum |
 Photo: Yuanyuan Yu |
 Photo: lizargi celaya |
 Photo: David BM |
 Photo: Artem Parshentsev |
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 Photo: Robert Plojetz |
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 Photo: Alessio Cuccu |
 Photo: Michael Good |
 Photo: Alessandro Accossato |
 Photo: Christine A. Benedix |
 Photo: Carlo 'Inquadra' |
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A small square |
Via Roma Turin 10123 |
Between Piazza San Carlo and the South West end of Via Roma, behind the Churches of Santa Cristina and San Carlo, a small square called Piazza C.L.N. (Comitato di Liberazione Nazionale) can be found. It is a very narrow little square which was rebuilt during the reconstruction of Via Roma (1931-37). It is dominated by the two apses of the Churches in Piazza San Carlo. The most interesting features are the two fountains of the Dora and the Po, which represent the city's two major rivers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: michael siegel |
 Photo: tigerpac |
 Photo: gabriele panero |
 Photo: Anna Corti |
The cumbersome fountain |
Piazza Campitelli Rome, Rome 00186 |
The fountain in the Piazza di Campitelli was designed by Giacomo della Porta. It was originally placed in the centre of the square, before being moved, by order of Pope Innocent XI, away from the Chiesa di Santa Maria in Campitelli following the church's restoration and enlargement. The fountain is fed by the Acqua Felice and is decorated with various friezes and large masks from which the water spurts. It bears the coats of arms of four influential local families and the effigies of the Senate and the Roman people. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luca Zampaglione |
 Photo: Dani |
Historical executions |
Piazza Campo de' Fiori Rome, Rome 00186 |
Tradition says that Campo dei Fiori was named after the woman loved by Pompey, Flora, but it is more likely to have come from something a bit less romantic: in the 14th century, Campo dei Fiori was a long-abandoned field filled with flowers. In the second half of the 19th century the square was used for a colourful market that has been held each morning since then. It was also the scene of many executions, most notably that of Giordano Bruno, the philosopher who was burned here in 1600. The statue dedicated to him replaced a fountain that was moved to the nearby Chiesa Nuova square, and a reproduction of it was moved to the side of the Campo dei Fiori. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jason canney |
 Photo: Haddy Bello |
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 Photo: Luca Graziani |
 Photo: Julcsi Koenig |
 Photo: Jose Parral |
 Photo: Leah Kozak |
 Photo: Pavol & Katka Kukucky |
 Photo: andrea mertina |
 Photo: Ken Perkowski |
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A leap into the past |
Via Fossalta 1 Lazise 37017 +39 45 759 0622 http://www.canevaworld.it info@canevaworld.it |
Canevaworld is not only the most beautiful Italian water park: in fact, when evening chills call a halt to plunging into the swimming pools, the fascinating spectacle of a full Medieval evening begins, set in the year 1092. You will be among the lucky 400 people who, while happily feasting on the banquest provided by King Astolfo, will witness a classic medieval tournament which offers the hand of the princess Esmerelda as a prize for the victor. The entrance ticket covers the dinner and the show put on by the knights and their horses. There is no specified dress code, but it is advisable to book places in advance. The venue is covered and air-conditioned, and the feast includes delicacies that generally satisfy everyone, including children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sheena t. green |
The people's piazza |
Piazza Carlo Emanuele II Turin 10123 |
In the area bordered by Via Po, Via Roma, Corso Vittorio and the Po, you will find a series of buildings and a small square very dear to the hearts of the Turin people—Piazza Carlo Emanuele II—probably the square which best represents this area. In the centre of the square, there is a monument of Cavour, which shows the famous statesman holding a sheet of paper in his hand engraved with the famous phrase "A free church in a free State." Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nuvola Rossa |
 Photo: Mister Brown |
 Photo: Matteo Nogarè |
 Photo: Andrea Perotti |
A piazza in a theatre |
Passo E. Montale, 4 Genoa 16121 +39 10 5 3811 http://www.carlofelice.it cfrelest@tin.it |
Built between 1826 and 1831, designed by the architect Carlo Barabino, it is an example of the traditional Italian horseshoe shaped, development. It has a capacity of 2,000. It was badly damaged by bombing in the Second World War, and almost completely rebuilt at the beginning of the 1990's by the architects I. Gardella and A. Rossi. The original neo-classical features of the pronaus and the portico were incorporated into the new building, whose imposing triangular tower, visible from many parts of the city, hides a sophisticated scenic mechanism which places this theatre among the most advanced in Italy. It has provoked both great amazement and furore among the Genovese on account of the internal design, including balconies, shutters and slate coverings, as if it were several houses in the historic centre facing onto a typical Ligurian piazza. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: LulúP. |
 Photo: CharlieBrigante |
 Photo: Sbratte |
 Photo: chiara ameri |
19th Century house |
3 Via Degli Omenoni Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turisfico) |
Built by the sculptor, Leone Leoni between 1562 and 1566 as his Milan residence, this building is famous above all for it's façade, which has eight telamons sculpted in solid stone. The rest of the decoration is highly ornamental and reflects the cultured style of its architect. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Catharina Bonang |
 Photo: pattybruce1961 |
Turin's Main Square |
Piazza Castello Turin 10121 |
This is one of Turin's main squares and holds reminders of the city's long and continuing history, from a Roman gate to a modern skyscraper. It is almost entirely surrounded by historic and interesting buildings including the Palazzo Madama, Royal Palace, Regio Theatre, Galleria Subalpina, Church of San Lorenzo, Royal Library which contains works by da Vinci, and the State Archives in Piazzetta Mollino. You can take a break under the porticos to go shopping or to relax in one of the many cafés. Come winter, there is an open-air ice rink and in the summer, colorful flowerbeds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: renzus07 |
 Photo: Luca Vailetta |
 Photo: LorelaiBlue |
Bramante and Muzio |
1 Largo Fra Agostino Gemelli Milan, Milan 20123 +39 2 7 2341 http://www.unicatt.it/ rel.internazionali@unicatt.it |
In Largo Agostino Gemelli next to the Piazza Sant'Ambrogio and the Tempio della Vittoria the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore is housed. The building which emerged from the remains of the former Sant'Ambrogio monastery, was designed by Bramato in 1497. The two splendid cloisters of the four required by renaissance architecture were built under the direction of I due splendidi Cristoforo Solari, whilst the majestic refectory, today the main school room, dates back to the 16th century which holds the vast fresco by Callisto Piazza of the 'Weddings of Cana'. With the suppression of the monastery in 1797, this large building became a army barracks and military hospital until 1921 when the Catholic University was founded. Its current aspect is the work of Giovanni Muzio who worked on this large site between 1929 and 1949: as well as restoring the cloisters and building the entrance to the building with brick paraments, he designed the two boys' colleges on Via Necchi, with class rooms overlooking Via Lanzone, the Psychology institue and the refectory. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: nmeriggi |
The monument to the Green Count |
Via Milano Turin 10122 |
The Green Count, Amedeo VI of Savoy, the hero of the crusade of 1366, stands in the centre of this square. The 18th c. square was formerly the Piazza delle Erbe but was rebuilt by Benedetto Alfieri in the second half of the 18th c. The design was supposed to bring an architectural conformity to the street, square and surrounding buildings, including the Palazzo di Città, the City Hall, which was being enlarged. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: El Gabrio |
Hours go by |
17a Via de' Filippini Rome, Rome 00186 |
This clock tower, with its alternately concave and convex sides, was designed and built by Borromini in the first half of the 17th century. It was placed at the top of the monastery of the Oratorio of San Filippo Neri. The structure is in wrought iron, and below the clock there is a lovely mosaic of the Madonna della Vallicella that was designed by Pietro da Cortona. The original clockwork mechanism is conserved in the Museum of Rome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Acciaio |
The symbol of Rome |
Piazza del Colosseo Rome, Rome 00184 +39 6 700 4261 / +39 6 700 5469 http://www.museidiroma.com/col... |
No visit to Rome is complete without having seen its magnificent Colosseum, a vast amphitheatre with seating for 55,000 that was designed as a horse racing circuit and arena for animal fighting and gladiatorial battles. Upon its completion, spectacular 100-day celebrations were organized as part of the opening ceremony in 72 AD. Its name is believed to come from Nero's enormous statue of Colossus that stood close by. The admission charges are about EUR10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeffrey Hollis |
 Photo: lesley middlemass |
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 Photo: Peanut Dela Cruz |
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 Photo: Jill Alcibar |
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The account of a victory |
Piazza Colonna Rome, Rome 00187 |
This large column was erected after the death of Marcus Aurelius to commemorate his victories over the barbarians. The reliefs on the column illustrate battle scenes and soldiers escorting files of prisoners. It is similar in style to Constantine's arch and it is probable that the same artist worked on both. The statue of Marcus Aurelius on the tip of the column was replaced by one of St Paul of which copies can be seen at the Museo della Civiltà Romana in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Praveen Emmanuel |
 Photo: Jesso Hackberry |
 Photo: Duane Bailey-Castro |
 Photo: Carli Morgenstein |
 Photo: Thijs Bennebroek |
 Photo: Andrea Di Carlo |
 Photo: Lenora Carr |
 Photo: David Travis |
 Photo: alish863psu |
Flowers for the Virgin Mary |
Piazza Mignanelli Rome, Rome 00187 |
The ancient Roman column became the base of a Christian monument in 1800. Pope Pius IX pronounced the creed of the Immaculate Conception and had a statue of the Madonna placed on the top of the column. Since then, the Immacolata is celebrated on 8 December, when a fireman climbs up to the statue and places a garland of flowers around her. In earlier times, Pope Pius himself would climb up to pay homage to the statue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jacob Maurer |
 Photo: Marci Ikeler |
Archaelogical Remnants |
39 Corso di Porta Ticinese Milan, Milan 20123 |
In front of the Basilica of San Lorenzo, there is a square with a row of columns on either side which were taken from a monumental building dating from the 2nd century B.C. and repositioned. Up until 1935, the space between the church and columns was entirely occupied by old houses abutting onto the façade of the church itself. Despite the plans to conserve this ancient urban fabric, the renovations led to the demolition of the old houses and the isolation of the monument. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Massimo |
 Photo: dann :* |
 Photo: Paul Murray |
 Photo: :Bandini's.on.fire: |
 Photo: Andrea Mantia |
 Photo: Strejiji |
 Photo: AlessandroDM |
Straight from Turin to Rivoli |
192 Corso Francia Turin 10139 |
From Piazza Statuto, one enters Corso Francia, an extremely long, straight road which leads to Rivoli from Turin through the town of Collegno. It was once the main road which lead to the Val di Susa from the city and from there to France, now it is one of the most important access roads into the city. There are some interesting buildings at the beginning of the route which were built in the art nouveau period. After Piazza Rivoli, it opens onto the Tesoriera park on the right which takes its name from the villa Sartirana or Tesoriera which is inside the park and is a typical example of an excellently preserved eighteenth century villa. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sergio_65_ita |
 Photo: Marcello Karra |
The market in the city centre |
Corso Palestro Via Garibaldi Turin 10122 |
This is one of the few markets in the centre. To find it, go to the end of Via Garibaldi in the direction of Piazza Statuto where it crosses Viale Palestro, a large 19th c. street. The stalls selling clothing and household objects bring life each morning to one of the loveliest parts of the city. If you are fed up with looking at shop windows, you may find something original here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: *blulu* |
Transverses the city |
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II Turin, Turin 10121 +39 (0)11 53 5181 (Turismo Torino) |
Starting at the Po, at one of the extremes of the Valentino park, this road leads to Corso Francia. It is a typical, tree lined, Turin street with three lanes, two of which are counterlanes and allow left turns which are forbidden in the central lane which is reserved for traffic proceeding along the avenue and for public transport. From the Po, the highlights of the route are the Valdese Temple, the synagogue, Palazzo Priotti, the Porta Nuova station and the monument to Vittorio Emanuele II. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chen_Yan |
 Photo: Ana Claudia CORREA |
 Photo: Chen_Yan |
A charitable institution |
14 Via San Giuseppe Cottolengo Turin 10152 +39 (0)11 522 5111 http://www.cottolengo.org Cottolengo@alma.it |
The "Little House of Divine Goodness," better known as Cottolengo, is an enormous charity complex in the rather rundown area of Porta Palazzo. It was founded by Canon Giuseppe Benedetto Cottolengo to provide medical help for the sick, poor, orphans and disabled. It was first established at the house 'della Volta Rossa' at no. 19, Via Palazzo, but was transferred here in 1832 and has since been enlarged. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wordscraft |
The great pinecone |
Viale Vaticano Rome, Rome 00193 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Inside the Vatican Museums you will find the Cortile della Pigna between the Sistine Salon, the Museo Chiaramonti, the Galleria dei Candelabri, the Museo Pio-Clementino and the Museo Gregoriano Egizio. The cortile is part of Bramante's Belvedere courtyard and was given the name because of the large bronze pinecone in front of the large niche. It was actually mentioned by Dante in the Divina Commedia. It dates from the Roman era and was found in Agrippa's Baths near Piazza Navona. It was probably created by the sculptor Salvius and may have been part of a fountain. It was later placed in the atrium of St Peter's with two bronze peacocks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dsfwb |
 Photo: Stacy Bruner |
Neo-Romanesque 19th c. building |
8 Viale Monte Grappa Milan, Milan 20124 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turisfico) |
After three temporary sites were set up offering meals at a low price, the Cucine Economiche (Cheap Meals) building was constructed in 1886 near the old Gabelle bridge over the Naviglio della Martesana. The building was designed by Luigi Broggi and is an example of Milanese Neo-Romanesque. The purpose of the building was reflected in its strict rationality and pure volumetry. Split on two floors (the kitchens and dining room on the ground floor and the offices upstairs), it is characterized by elegant decorative elements: the low arched doorways and windows, the alternating bands of ceramic and plaster, the simple motifs in staggered brick are an effective and remarkable example of architecture in a charitable building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: paolo |
Sports and concerts |
Forum di Assago Assago, Milano 20090 +39 (0)2 1 9912 8800 http://www.forumnet.it/ |
This sports stadium was built in 1990 and has become the premier centre in Milan for major sporting and show events. During the year, the ATP tennis championship, the Sei Giorni di ciclismo (cycling event), and basketball games. The stadium has 12,000 spectator capacity. The sports stadium allows the development of various sports at another level: skating, swimming, basketball, volleyball, bowling and squash. Two multipurpose courts. There's also a ministadium with 200 places available to hire; use of ball is included in price. There is also a sports equipment shop, a restaurant, self-service restaurant and bar. Whilst the stadium is always open the hours vary according to the sports activity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roberto Boggio Merlo |
 Photo: Michele Di Maio |
 Photo: Davide Armaroli |
 Photo: tungs |
 Photo: Matteo Furcas |
 Photo: Matteo Gentini |
 Photo: Nuna Tognoni |
The most famous Torinese monument |
Piazza San Carlo Turin 10121 |
The monument to Emanuele Filiberto is found in Piazza San Carlo, the "living room" of the city, and is affectionately called by the Torinesi the "caval d'brons", or the bronze horse. It depicts Emanuele Filiberto, the leader of the battle of San Quintino in 1557, in the act of drawing his sword and guiding his troops to victory. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alice Twain |
 Photo: Andrea Parisse |
 Photo: Badnightcafè |
 Photo: Victor Kishor Ferri |
 Photo: Alessandro Sandrucci |
War Memorial |
West of Via Cassia Florence, Florence 50144 +39 55 230 2033 (tourism office) http://www.abmc.gov/ info@abmc.gov |
The memorial is a beautiful spot amidst wooded slopes, near the Greve River. Green courts with white crosses, on either side of a pylon, consist of 4402 graves of soldiers who died for their country. The names soldiers is written upon the Tablets of the Missing, which serves as a reminder of sacrifice and loyalty. A staff member is on site at all times to answer questions and assist relatives to the graves. Achievements of the American Armed Forces in this region can be viewed in the north atrium of the memorial. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: rachel j. k. grace |
 Photo: Lee Bullock |
 Photo: Francesca Birini |
 Photo: 8 perf |
 Photo: Elisa Edefonti |
Once used to house orphan girls |
Via Santo stefano 119 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40125 |
The façade, portico and quadriportico were built for the Bentivoglio family at the end of the 15th century. The capitals are worth taking a look at. Today the building is the administrative base for the Santo Stefano district. It was used to house pilgrims during the 15th century, and was later turned into an orphanage for young girls - a sort of conservatory to keep them "honest". It could house up to 75 girls who were then expected to work up to 12 hours per day, sewing, embroidering, and making fabrics. They generally stayed here for around seven years. They used the proceeds from their work as a dowry to get married or to take vows. The husband would be given a part payment and would only receive the rest when he had demonstrated that he was in a good position to marry. The façade was redone in 1779. The interiors have recently been rennovated and display some frescoes by Bagnacavallo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesco Monetti |
See the Sea God |
Piazza Barberini Rome, Rome 00187 |
In the middle of the congested Piazza Barberini stands the Fountain of Triton, one of Bernini's finest. It shows the sea-god Triton carved into the centre of a shell. It was ordered by Pope Urban VIII Barberini, as was the other fountain in the square, the Fountain of the Bees. It takes its name from the bees of the Barberini coat of arms, sculpted into the fountain. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: papillion_1 |
The iniquity of the people |
Piazza Navona Rome, Rome 00186 |
The Fountain of the Four Rivers is in the centre of Piazza Navona. It was built between 1648 and 1651 from marble and travertine by Bernini. The fountain represents a large rock, which seems to emerge from the water on which an Egyptian obelisk from the Roman era stands. The rock is inhabited by allegorical animals and plants and decorated with the coat of arms of the Pamphili family. Four large statues represent rivers of the then-known areas of the world: the Danube for Europe, the Ganges for Asia, the Rio de la Plata for America, and the Nile for Africa. The last is covering its eyes so as not to see the iniquities taking place before it in the square, the commerce practised by merchants and tradesmen. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Boril Bogoev |
 Photo: Rick Abel |
 Photo: Rien Bakker |
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 Photo: Colie Parks |
 Photo: Daniel Hoult |
 Photo: Tommaso R. Donnarumma |
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 Photo: Phil Norton |
 Photo: Daniel Zeilstra |
 Photo: Kerri Bastin |
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One of the Renaissance's little gems |
Piazza Mattei Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
This lovely fountain from the late 16th century was ordered by the Mattei family to Giacomo della Porta's design. The statues, on the other hand, are by Taddeo Landini. The turtles that gave their name to the fountain, the work of an anonymous sculptor, were added only a century later. Some think that their creator may even be Bernini, but the evidence is thin; it was perhaps one of his pupils, which would justify any similarities between this work and the work of the illustrious sculptor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: iKangaroo.com |
 Photo: Palinkas Tamara |
 Photo: Yakov Miretski |
Elegant sprays of water |
Viale Matteo Maria Boiardo Parco del Valentino Turin 10126 |
If you go to Valentino park and take a walk behind the Turin Exhibition Centre, you will come across the superb "Fountain of the Months". An example of technological development during the Belle Epoque, it was designed and built by Carlo Ceppi for the 1898 national Exhibition and for the 50th anniversary of the Albertine Statute. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Carlo Nicolotti |
 Photo: Carlo Nicolotti |
 Photo: Jenna Marie Rohm |
 Photo: Marta Favro |
Protected corners |
Via delle Quattro Fontane Rome, Rome 00187 |
These four baroque fountains, situated at each of the four corners of the crossroads of Via delle Quattro Fontane, Via del Quirinale and Via XX Settembre, depict the Tiber, recognisable by the presence of the Wolf; the Arno: the two male figures; and Diana and Juno: the females. The statues were erected at the end of the 16th century under Pope Sisto V during a period of reconstruction and embellishment of the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paige Lawrence |
 Photo: St. John Moore |
 Photo: John Brelstaff |
A special monument |
Piazza Statuto Turin 10122 |
In the garden in the centre of Piazza Statuto is the commemorative monument to the Frejus Tunnel, the tunnel that links Italy and France. The work is by the sculptor Belli and dates from 1879. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: edward bertozzi |
 Photo: Giovanni Cassano |
 Photo: TorinoBikeFriend |
 Photo: Palikao |
Dreaming of Paolina |
5 Piazzale Scipione Borghese Rome, Rome 00197 +39 6 841 3979 http://www.galleriaborghese.it/ info.servizimusei@libero.it |
This collection is housed in a building constructed in 1613 for Cardinal Scipione Borghese, one of Bernini's greatest patrons. In fact, this great sculptor has exhibited some of his most famous sculptures here; amongst them is the renowned 'Apollo and Daphne.' When one thinks of the Museo Borghese, the sculpture that immediately springs to mind is Canova's 'Pauline Borghese,' in which she poses as Venus, wearing just a drape around her midriff. There are six major pieces by Caravaggio in the Galleria, including 'The boy with a basket of fruit' and the 'Madonna della Serpe.' Titian is also represented with 'Sacred and Profane Love,' Rafael with 'The Deposition,' and there are important works by Correggio. The gallery can only hold 300 visitors at a time, so it is advisable to book in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adan Gallardo |
 Photo: alfiogreen |
 Photo: Stefano Fiore |
 Photo: Cat Pitts-Tucker |
 Photo: Roberto Anglani |
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 Photo: Olga Lebedeva |
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 Photo: Alessandro Bachini |
 Photo: Elena |
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A dive into the present |
131 Via delle Belle Arti Rome, Rome 00196 +39 6 32 2981 http://www.gnam.arti.benicultu... comunicazione.gnam@beniculturali.it |
The collection housed in this Neo-classical building includes works from the 19th and 20th centuries. The 19th century works are mostly those of the macchiaioli (Florentine impressionist painters), a similar movement to puntinismo (pointillism), a style based on the use of spots of colour to create paintings whose subjects were distinguishable only from a certain distance. Among the 20th century artists are works from De Chirico, Carrà, Sironi, Casorati, Marini and many others. The museum often organises temporary exhibitions and has its own shop. Disabled access from via Gramsci, 71. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Moniek Holtermann |
 Photo: Carlo Franceschini |
Between fiction and reality |
Gardesana Orientale Castelnuovo del Garda 37014 +39 45 644 9777 http://www.gardaland.it/ |
Gardaland is the best and largest theme park in Italy. There are many rides which have contributed to its success including: a journey amongst the pharaohs in 'Valley of Kings' and a trip round a pirate village in 'The Buccaneers'. You can also visit the 'Village of the Elves' and venture through the uncultivated jungle. However, the best rides are aimed at the bravest visitors: start with a terrifying freefall from a height of 40 metres in 'Space Vertigo', then wander through a Russian mountain range (the first of its kind ever constructed in Italy) in 'Blue Tornado' and finally explore some more traditional mountains in 'Magic Mountain'. After all this, when the heat is beginning to get to you, why not try an aqueous descent in a carved out tree trunk ('Colorado Boat') or a journey through the rapids in 'Jungle Rapids?' There are hundreds of other attractions as well as live shows. The park - which has been carefully put together, right down to the finishing touches - is also host to a number of restaurants and gift shops. It would be a crime to miss it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Malaffo Enrico |
 Photo: manuel comis |
 Photo: Christine Al-Qattan |
 Photo: Riccardo |
 Photo: Carmen Cristina Rizz |
The famous leaning tower of Bologna |
Piazza di Porta Ravegnana Bologna 40125 |
Built around the twelfth century, probably at the same time as the Asinelli tower was built, the leaning Garisenda tower is about 48m high. It is also called the Mozzata (Docked) tower, because it is said to have been hight than it now is. Dante Alighieri supports this hypothesis in the 31st canto of his 'Inferno' (v136-138) when he said: '..Qual pare a riguardar la Garisenda sotto 'l chinato, quando un nuvol vada sovr'essa sì, che ella incontro penda' (It seems that I am looking at the Garisenda tower under its incline, and when a cloud passes over, it leans a little). We can also deduce that the tower aquired its lean quite quickly, perhaps due to a subsidance in the ground. There is a plaque inscribed with Dante's verses on the leaning side of the tower. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fernanda Alarcón |
 Photo: manuel da ros |
 Photo: Demetrio Filocamo |
 Photo: Liesbeth & Frédéric |
 Photo: gremetti |
 Photo: Andrea Bassi |
![Garisenda Tower photo by dEb[free burma]](pictures/114010_14.jpg) Photo: dEb[free burma] |
 Photo: Valeria Migliaccio |
 Photo: Antonio Latela |
 Photo: marco prete |
 Photo: Ornella Gerbino |
 Photo: Kevin Welker |
 Photo: Apu Kapadia |
 Photo: Michele Pedrolli |
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Remains of the day |
Via del Portico d'Ottavia Sant'Angelo (Area 1) Rome, Rome 00186 +39 (0)6 48 8991 (Romaturismo) |
This area has been frequented by the Jewish community since the year 1000, thus the name "ghetto." It is full of archeological remains, dating to the medieval period and earlier. The significant monuments that can be seen include Octavia's Portico, built by Augustus for his sister, now incorporating the church of Sant'Angelo in Pescheria. Cola di Rienzo was born in this area, and a plaque marks his birthplace in what was once Via della Fiumara. The Synagogue, with its square dome, is very different from the surrounding Roman city architecture, and on the wall of the riverside street there are slabs with inscriptions commemorating the death of the Jews in the Nazi concentration camps and at the Fosse Ardeatine. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rebecca Rosen |
 Photo: Neil 'Kiwi' McCabe |
 Photo: shara shisheboran |
 Photo: Steve G. Hoffman |
 Photo: Craig Cunningham |
 Photo: Darren Gittins |
 Photo: stefano varano |
 Photo: union forever |
 Photo: Mary Quinlivan |
 Photo: Derek Gianfresco |
 Photo: partigianirimini |
 Photo: Michiel Dros |
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A gift from Germany to Rome |
Viale Goethe Rome, Rome 00197 |
At the Porta Pinciana entrance to Villa Borghese there stands an enormous statue that commemorates the German writer and poet Wolfgang Goethe. The avenue on which it stands is also named after him. The statue was given as a sign of friendship by Emperor William II of Germany to the city of Rome and was inaugurated in June 1904 in the presence of King Vittorio Emanuele III. It symbolised the deep bond between Rome and Germany. Goethe was chosen because he was influenced the time he had spent in the city as a youth. At the base of the pedestal there are three groups that represent the artistic fields in which he was active: philosophy, drama and opera. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Furstner |
 Photo: ryan david jahn |
Natural cave in the Guinness book of records as the largest touristic cave in the world! |
Borgo Grotta Gigante 42/a Sgonico 34100 +39 40 32 7312 |
This enormous cave, first opened to the public in 1908, is large enough to contain the entire basilica of Saint Peter. Because of its special characteristics and constant temperature of 12°C, it is the site of scientific experiments of world interest. The oldest speleological society in Europe runs the caves and organizes guided tours all year round. A series of routes, some of which have only been opened recently, allow visitors to admire the cave (illuminated by spotlights) from different angles. You can also visit the small museum of archeological and paleontological materials from the area. Museum admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fede Ranghino |
 Photo: rainerspl |
 Photo: clopette |
 Photo: Fabio & Danilo |
Emperor's dream |
204 Via di Villa Adriana Tivoli, Rome 00019 +39 6 3996 7900 |
This extraordinary villa was built for Emperor Hadrian in 118 A.D. It was vast and included full-scale reproductions of Egyptian and Greek buildings, much loved by Hadrian. The palace had a series of rooms for guests, banqueting halls and libraries. Hadrian had theatres built, as well as libraries with many Greek and Latin texts, and baths, fountains and pools. Teatro Marittimo must have also been an incredible sight, a pool with an island in the centre reached by a drawbridge: apparently it was one of the emperor's favourite spots in which to indulge in his favourite pastimes, painting and architecture. Amongst the reproduced buildings, Hadrian had a Canopus made, a temple to the god Serapis, and statues were imported from Egypt for decoration. The villa fell into ruin after 700 A.D, when tribes of barbarians used it as a campsite. The art work reappeared much later in private collections, and in various European museums. The restored remains can be viewed amongst the trees, along with fragments of mosaics from the imperial palace. You can get there by bus to Tivoli, or by train to Tivoli station and from there, local bus 4. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Strother |
 Photo: Andrew Stock |
 Photo: Luke Stearns |
 Photo: debcolomb |
 Photo: Paolo Villa |
 Photo: Kim Gjoel |
 Photo: Edward Klister |
 Photo: Deanna Fusco |
 Photo: Mike Trinder |
 Photo: Gabriele Mambrini |
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 Photo: Ravi Peters |
The reunited twins |
Piazza del Campidoglio Rome 00186 |
Statues of the Dioscuri, the twins Castor and Pollux, stand guard over the flight of steps designed by Michelangelo that leads to the piazza del Campidoglio. The twins were the sons of Zeus after he ravished Leda in the form of a swan. In Rome, the inseparable pair is always represented with two faithful horses. In fact, this last pair of statues was commissioned by Pope Paul III to stand guard over the steps of the Campidoglio but their place was won by the current pair that was discovered during that period in the nearby Piazza Cenci: a sign of fate! Since the discovery in the mid-16th century, the two colossal statues have undergone a number of restorations. That of 1744 was undertaken to repair them when the statues were damaged by the crowd that climbed on top of them after spilling over from the Piazza del Campidoglio during the Lottery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jallen13 |
 Photo: Carlos |
 Photo: mgv4 |
 Photo: Diego Roncoroni |
 Photo: Fabio Ciarla |
 Photo: Claudio Mazzocchi |
 Photo: Zachary Waite |
The first apartment blocks |
Piazza d'Aracoeli Rome, Rome 00186 |
Alongside the steps of Aracoeli are the remains of this 'apartment block' built about 2000 years ago, providing homes for poorer people who lived in difficult conditions. Just the first six floors of the construction can be seen: it is believed to have been higher, with space for perhaps 400 people. The top three floors were partly used in the Middle Ages for the construction of a church. In the 1940s, a renovation operation uncovered three lower floors. Admission: Phone or fax for permission Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mauro |
A 13th century residence |
Strada Maggiore 19 Bologna 40125 |
Casa Isolani was built during the 13th c. and is one of the rare surviving examples of civil construction of that period in Bologna. It is characterised by the tall gallery with wooden columns in Romanesque-Gothic style. It was last restored in 1877 when three arrows became lodged in the ceiling of the gallery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabrizio Piro |
 Photo: Riccardo Di Sipio |
The biggest piazza in Europe, overlooking the sea, the city's front room |
Place Unité d'Italie Trieste |
This is not simply a piazza, but the very heart of Trieste: its lounge, its soul, its business centre, as well as the commercial and political centre. Very busy of course during the week , it plays an important role on Sunday mornings when thousands of people descend on this large European piazza that overlooks the sea. Here, they drink coffee, meet friends, colleagues and acquaintances, all in a very unique atmosphere. The piazza also accommodates many concerts, festivals, shows and exhibitions. Shaped in a perfect rectangle and surrounded by amazing palaces: the Municipio with its clock tower; the Stratti, housing General Insurance and also the Caffè degli Specchi and the Palazzo del Lloyd Trestino, which once housed the oldest Italian navigation company. Finally there is also the Prefettura or government palace and the lovely liberty building that houses the fine Duca d'Aosta hotel. And at the piazza's centre stands the 18th century Quattro Continenti fountain, the former terminal of the Maria Teresa d'Austria acqueduct. It would be a grave sin to visit Trieste and not have a coffee in this lovely piazza. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matteo Sangalli |
Genoa and Samp as rivals in the world stadium |
Via Del Piano Genoa |
Rebuilt by the Gregotti studios for the 1990 football world cup, the new stadium is an architectural structure which energetically resolves the engineering problem posed by the covered stands. Located in the Marassi district, the stadium is rather at odds with its densely built-up surroundings. Today, the city has two main teams, Genoa, founded by a group of English players in 1893, the first football club in Italy, and Sampdoria, born out of the Sampierdarenese and Andrea Doria union. The two annual matches fire the enthusiasm of the respective fans, creating extraordinary scenes - a real show alongside the official show. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alexandra Müller |
 Photo: Nigi Merenda |
 Photo: gumptard |
New district vacated by Pirelli |
Viale Sarca, Via Valbrona, Via Cozzi, Via Chiese Milan, Milan 20126 |
The purpose of the large Bicocca project was the reuse of the enormous area previously occupied by the Pirelli and Ansaldo factories into a site based on industry, university buildings, research laboratories, shopping centres and services. The project has attracted the largest contribution from Europe in Milan. It is under the direction of Vittorio Gregotti who has attempted to create a "historical centre in the suburbs" around the grid of roads, open spaces and factory buildings. Some of the buildings are restructured versions of the original industrial sites, others are new creations. They are aligned in blocks connected by five large pedestrian squares that provide a human centre and aid in the urban image of the area. "The creation of simple, civil architecture without showing off" is what Gregotti has attempted to achieve. The Siemens research building, the residential buildings along Viale Sarca, the seat of the second University of Studies in Milan, and the layout of the open spaces are the elegant results. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lauren Hoekstra |
 Photo: Valerio Cozzi |
 Photo: Enrico Fioraso |
 Photo: Luca Sommariva |
 Photo: Giacomo Rizzo |
 Photo: Gianfranco Chicco |
 Photo: Paolo Soro |
 Photo: marco checchi |
 Photo: Carlo Panzi |
 Photo: Lorenzo |
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 Photo: Danilo Neri |
 Photo: Patrick Beeker |
 Photo: Martino Crippa |
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Turin's other river |
Borgo Dora, Pellerina Turin |
The Doria Riparia is a tributary of the Po. It has its source as the Piccola Dora on the hill of Monginevro and is Turin's second river. It used to be very important for the socio-economic development of the city. During the Middle Ages, canals known as 'bealere' were constructed on which grain mills were built powered by the water of the river. Between the 16th and 19th centuries, stones and sand were quarried from its bed to build most of the buildings in Turin while its waters were channelled into 'dojre' and used to clean the roads. The only sections of the Dora that can be navigated today are within Pellerina Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Thinkmobi |
 Photo: Walter Ferraris |
 Photo: Elena |
Internationally renowned opera house |
Piazza della Scala Milan 20121 +39 0288791 http://www.teatroallascala.org/ |
Conceived in 1776 as a fitting replacement for the Teatro Ducale (sadly destroyed by fire), the famous La Scala theatre has since become one of opera's legendary venues. Home to the prestigious La Scala di Milano opera company, it remains one of the city's liveliest cultural venues. Check the web site for maps and directions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Asended |
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 Photo: Pei Ling Chua |
 Photo: Giovanni Mezzadri |
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The symbol of Genoa |
Via San Benigno Genoa 16149 +39 0102465346 http://www.provincia.genova.it... |
This is known throughout the world as the emblem of Genoa. It is built on a rocky outcrop, the remains of Promontorio Hill which has been quarried for centuries for stone with which to build the city. The Lanterna was built in 1543 on the site of an earlier lighthouse. It has always kept the seafaring people safe, enabling them to direct their boats towards a safe harbour from 33 miles away. Legend has it that the Republic government assassinated the architect by making him jump from the top of the lighthouse so that he couldn't build a similar lighthouse for a rival city. The 120 metre tower is in all Genoese's hearts, and when they see it they know that they are at home. If you can manage to climb the 375 steps to the top of the lighthouse you will be rewarded with a splendid view over the port and the whole bay. After a year of closure the lighthouse is now open to everyone. It is necessary to book in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: francesco senatore |
 Photo: Giulia Roncagliolo. |
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 Photo: Ring's Nest |
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 Photo: Giulio Gardu |
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 Photo: Fabio De Angelis |
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The lodge of Duke Alessandro de'Medici |
Piazza della Signoria Florence 50122 |
Also called the Loggia della Signoria, the Loggia was named the Loggia dei Lanzi when the Duke Alessandro de'Medici made it the camp of the Lanzichenecchi after the fall of the Florentine Republic. It was the Signoria which commissioned a great Loggia for public use in 1350. The job was started by Orcagna, but continued and finished by Benci di Cione and Francesco Talenti only in 1382. Made in Serena stone with acute pointed arches and bricks decorated by sculptures designed by Agnolo Gaddi, this taste for a clasical style is what characterises Florentine art of the time. Benvenuto Cellini's famous "Perseus" was installed under the Loggia, and in the central arch Giambologna's marble "Rape of the Sabine Women", which can be found next to "Hercules with the centaur Nessus" also in marble. The other statues at the back near to the walls came from the Medici villa in Rome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eugenia G.Valdecasas |
 Photo: Keith G. Nowakowski |
 Photo: macky pamintuan |
 Photo: Robert Perron |
 Photo: Carolyn Whiteford |
 Photo: Basil Minor, Surrey |
 Photo: George F. Dorsey, Jr |
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You can't lodge at the Loggia |
9 Piazza Dei Mercanti Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turisfico) http://www.turismo.comune.mila... |
On the southern side of Piazza dei Mercanti, there is the 'Loggia degli Osii', where, from the balcony or 'parlera', the edicts and sentences issued by the municipal government were read. Dating to the early 14th century, commissioned by Matteo Visconti, it underwent refurbishing operations in the early 20th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marco Marescotti |
 Photo: renagrisa |
Tourism around Lake Garda |
Malcesine, Verona 37018 info@tourism.verona.it |
Malcesine is one of the most beautiful, evocative, and picturesque towns on the shores of Lake Garda. It has cobbled streets, a castle, some really beautiful buildings, and a promenade along the shores of the lake. It is a place where architecture and nature live side by side in perfect harmony. It is located near the head of the lake, a few kilometres from Torbole (much loved by surfers) and Riva del Garda. There is a wide range of accomodation available, from four star hotels to campsites, and the town's attractions, apart from those connected with the lake, include a cableway, and the castle which dominates the small town. During the Middle Ages the Della Scala family restored and reinforced the pre-existent, ancient Malcesine fortress, which had a 30 metre high tower. The castle is built entirely of stone, and has three floors which can be reached by a long spiral staircase leading up from the lowest courtyard. Goethe was arrested for spying in Malcesine when he was caught drawing the castle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: colorreversal |
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 Photo: Luigi Nalli |
 Photo: Christina Matteotti |
 Photo: Florian Käutner |
 Photo: Jens Paulsen |
 Photo: b.fabio85 |
 Photo: Dieter Perkhofer |
 Photo: Sven Goldhardt |
 Photo: Alexander Krajasich |
 Photo: thech40s |
 Photo: s. martins |
 Photo: Dan Booth |
 Photo: John Webber |
Saint Peter's last miracle |
1 Clivo Argentario Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 679 2902 |
Tradition has it that the narrow cell connected to the Cloaca Maxima is the prison where Saint Peter was incarcerated before his crucifixion. There is an altar with a small spring which the Saint miraculously caused to gush forth and which he used to baptise his fellow prisoners and two guards. The prisoners died of starvation here and their bodies were then thrown in the nearby Cloaca. The Gallic leader, Vercingetorix, defeated by Julius Caesar, was also imprisoned and executed here. The prisons can be reached by a narrow flight of steps located inside the Chiesa di San Giuseppe dei Falegnami. Entry: free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Whitney Paige |
 Photo: wheeler100 |
 Photo: mccrories |
 Photo: bryan feil |
 Photo: j0217995 |
 Photo: Alexis B. Lovell |
 Photo: Laura Wilson |
 Photo: Timothy Liu |
 Photo: kathryn clover |
 Photo: Morris Balacco |
 Photo: Mary Ellen Giess |
Baroque arch |
Via Saragozza Bologna 40135 |
This arch was built by Carlo Francesco Dotti in 1732 to link Via Saragoza's portico with the porticoes which lead towards the Santuario di San Luca. It is raised high above the street and will enable you to walk to the Sanctuary undercover in case of bad weather. The Baroque style of this arch creates a beautiful background. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gnezio |
 Photo: Gnezio |
Open air food and clothes market |
Largo Antignano Naples 80127 |
This is an open air food and clothing market. There are a large number stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, and also clothing. It is open every working day of the year, and attracts a large clientele due to the quality of the fresh products and the reasonable prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: acetosa888 |
A vast choice of food products |
Via dell'Ariento, 10/14 Florence 50100 |
In this large iron and glass building you can buy meat, fish and many culinary rarities including fruit and fresh vegetables. On the upper floor there are also flowers of different kinds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel Fox |
 Photo: Laurie O'Neill |
 Photo: Leena McCall |
 Photo: David Morris |
 Photo: Aaron Fili |
 Photo: Cathy Nyhan |
 Photo: Marco Melillo |
 Photo: Ewa Sikorska |
 Photo: Jeffrey Baker |
 Photo: bruna benvegnu |
 Photo: Amy Seponara |
 Photo: Samin Nosrat |
 Photo: Robert Grant |
 Photo: Paige Lawrence |
 Photo: familiacuen |
 Photo: anavila |
 Photo: Éverton Viana |
 Photo: Heidi Anne Ward |
 Photo: Josh Berkus |
 Photo: Laura Hammock |
Traditional local market |
Piazza Campo de' Fiori Rome, Rome 00186 |
This food market is famous throughout the city and is worth a visit even if you have no intention to buy anything. As well as fresh fish and meat counters, there is an offal stall, huge amounts of seasonal fruit and vegetables, oriental and Italian spices and cereal in many different varieties. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: vallygiudici |
 Photo: Felice Mocci |
 Photo: Robbin Gheesling |
 Photo: Giancarlo Gallinoro |
 Photo: Christopher Huang |
 Photo: cptung |
 Photo: Claudio Lodi |
 Photo: Fabrizio Lasorsa |
 Photo: Fred Thibeault |
 Photo: Thom May |
 Photo: Browning Hemric |
 Photo: Julie Wolfson |
 Photo: Hipnosic (PCh) |
 Photo: Tak from HK |
Covered market in the beautiful Liberty building |
Piazza Alessandria Rome, Rome 00198 |
This food market, located in a beautiful Liberty building, is regularly visited by residents of the Trieste quarter. There are various meat and fish shops as well as different fresh fruit and vegetables stalls. Visa accepted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Giovanni De Stefano |
The best-stocked and cheapest in Rome |
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II Rome, Rome 00185 |
This very famous food market is perhaps the largest, best-stocked and cheapest in Rome. It specialises above all in fresh fish, fruit and vegetables and for some years has also been the home oriental food stalls, and a stall with kosher and halal meat. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alberto Urbinati |
 Photo: ita145117 |
 Photo: Laura Cingolani |
The most colourful market in Turin |
Piazza della Repubblica Turin, Turin 10122 |
A few steps away from the Royal Palace and the Palatine gates, is the Porta Palazzo market in the Piazza della Repubblica. It is the most characteristic market in Turin, and takes its name from a disused railway station. It is a place that must be visited to see how Turin is changing. Apart from fresh fruits and vegetables, and the best prices in Turin, produce from all over the world can be found here. Next to Chinese supermarkets, Morrocan hairdressers and Indian video rentals, you will find colourful stalls of oriental spices, exotic fruits, aromatic herbs, and Piedmontese specialities. The people who visit are young; the stall holders polite, helpful and ready to chat with everyone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: blognotes |
 Photo: Francesca Lenti |
 Photo: lindagattino |
 Photo: A.r.m.o 2nd feat. www.flickr.com/photos/armo |
 Photo: elena givone |
 Photo: magnus13 |
Most famous Venice market |
Rialto Venice 30124 |
This market sells fruit, vegetables, groceries and fish. Full of local colour, a browse through the stalls is a must, even if you have nothing to buy. Prices are lower than in the shops and the fish is always extremely fresh. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesco Piasentin |
 Photo: giorgio gherardi |
A market in the center |
Piazza San Lorenzo Florence 50122 |
This market winds around the Chiesa di San Lorenzo and the Mercato Centrale. There are stalls with all kinds of things: from jumpers to leather hats, from souvenirs to linen. There are also second-hand goods, precious stones, bags, scarves and Florentine paper. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: daniele esposito |
 Photo: Riccardo |
 Photo: Camille Godon |
 Photo: Paola Tronu |
Here To Stay |
Piazza Testaccio Rome, IT 00153 |
This market has long been an attraction for locals and tourists alike. With sturdy stalls and just about any meat, dairy, or vegetable product you can find, Mercato di Testaccio provides its shoppers with a genuine Italian market experience. Clothes, shoes, and other knick-knacks can be found if you just look hard enough. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amy Seponara |
 Photo: Daniele Butera (aka |
 Photo: Sophie Gordon |
The best stock of second-hand clothing |
Via Sannio Rome, Rome 00183 +39 (0)6 48 8991 (Tourist information) |
This market is famous above all for its stalls of second-hand clothes, which sell jeans, sports clothes, military clothes etc., all at low prices. There are also stalls selling new clothes and camping equipment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mauro |
The main railway station |
Piazza Duca d' 'Aosta Milan, Milan 20124 +39 2 6371 2016 http://www.grandistazioni.it/m... info@grandistazion.it |
The wide avenue Viale Vittor Pisani, from Piazza della Repubblica, brings you to the monumental Central Station of Milan, built between 1912, the date of the tender competition, and 1931, when it was opened. The façade of the station, in Aurisina stone, has a Pharaonic scale that is inevitably compared to Germanic culture. In the gallery at the entrance, medallions by Giannino Castiglioni depict Work, Commerce, Science and Agriculture, while the first-floor gallery is embellished by panels in ceramic with views of Milan, Turin, Florence and Rome by Basilio and Cascella. Inside the station there is the waxworks museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mihailo |
 Photo: The Dark_Side Of The |
 Photo: mike4zurich |
 Photo: www.robertoderi.net |
 Photo: JANIS MARINELLI |
 Photo: ildiva |
 Photo: Jon Xu |
 Photo: jewins |
 Photo: Michela Fauda |
 Photo: Ria S |
 Photo: Riccardo Guidolin |
 Photo: Rolf F. |
 Photo: Daniele |
 Photo: John McCartney |
 Photo: chiara salvatore |
 Photo: nmirela |
 Photo: Federica De Simone |
 Photo: Andrea Aiello |
The Symbol of Turin |
20 Via Montebello Turin, Turin 10124 +39 (0)11 812 5658 / +39 (0)11 813 8560 / +39 (0)11 813 8561 http://www.museonazionaledelci... info@museocinema.it |
This is one of the highest works of masonry in Europe, standing at 167.5 metres. It was planned by Alessandro Antonelli as a synagogue in the second half of the 19th century. The square-based construction presents its facade towards Via Montebello, and the quadrangular dome is mounted by a little temple with two columns which hold up the spire. This spire was rebuilt in 1953 after its collapse during a violent storm, and it was remodeled in metal overlaid with stone. There is an old Turin legend regarding universities and the Mole-- if a student climbs the Mole during his studies, he will never graduate. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Barbara Ungari |
 Photo: Clive Aldenhoven |
 Photo: Paolo |
 Photo: Adriana Lazzari |
 Photo: elchblut |
 Photo: mira_spera |
 Photo: giginino |
 Photo: Alessandro Saponaro |
 Photo: Simone Camillo Buzzi |
 Photo: Davide Armaroli |
 Photo: Klaus Thoeni |
 Photo: Yanez (i), Ivan B. |
 Photo: hummyhummy |
 Photo: Francesco |
 Photo: Edoardo |
 Photo: Massimo |
 Photo: Valinuccia |
Beautiful steps leading into the Parco della Montagnola |
Via Indipendenza Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40121 |
Bologna's "Parco della Montagnola" is located in Via Indipendenza. To enter the park you have to climb one of the two scenic flights of steps which were built at the end of the 19th century by the architects Tito Azzolini and Attilio Muggia. The sculptures and reliefs which decorate the stairs are taken from some historical stories of the city, and were sculpted by Ettore Sabbioni, Arturo Colombarini, Arturo Orsoni, and Pietro Veronesi. The beautiful fountain depicting the horse and virgin in the grasp of an octopus is by Diego Sarti. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Edoardo Biondi |
Chic shopping district |
Via Montenapoleone Milan, Milan +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) http://www.viamontenapoleone.org/ |
Frequented by the world's jet set and well-to-do Milanese, Milan's fashionable shopping district is famed for its wealth of luxury boutiques. Top names in haute couture and ready-to-wear, from Versace and Dolce & Gabbana to Louis Vuitton and Valentino, they all have shops here. Some of the world's finest jewelers, including Cartier, Bulgari, Pomellato and Tiffany's have stores here too; even if you're not buying, the stunning window displays are always worth a look. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabio Di Lupo |
 Photo: perdindirindina.com |
 Photo: pannaphotos |
 Photo: Claudio Cabrini |
 Photo: eliale76 |
 Photo: Peter Gingras |
Shoppers' haven |
Piazza Trinità dei Monti Monti Rome, Rome 00184 +39 (0)6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
This area in the city is a veritable shopper's paradise. Serene and secluded, it provides just the ambiance for some leisurely browsing through the string of antique stores and vintage shops that line the streets. You will come across many friendly locals out for a stroll, as it is also a prime residential location. After a bout of shopping, a hot n' tasty meal at one of the numerous restaurants would be in order. Grab a few euros, put on your walking shoes and get ready to discover this part of the city at your own pace. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Don Simon |
 Photo: Sara Lattuada |
 Photo: Mauro Farina |
 Photo: jorgehenrique62 |
 Photo: Marco Bardus |
 Photo: Shek |
 Photo: perez-osa |
 Photo: Vincenzo Stanziola |
 Photo: Brian Farrell |
 Photo: Rev Cruz |
 Photo: ugo goy |
 Photo: Mark Kinver |
 Photo: Arianna |
 Photo: Jules & Rich |
Homage to a heroine |
Piazzale Anita Garibaldi Rome, Rome 00165 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The monument to Anita Garibaldi stands in the square named after her on the Gianicolo. It is flanked by the marble busts of the most famous Garibaldini and by the statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi. The statue of Anna Garibaldi was made by Mario Rutelli in 1931 and shows her holding her son close as she gallops on a horse. High reliefs on the base show Anita mounted and leading Garibaldi and his army, Garibaldi embracing the dying Anita, and other scenes in which Anna gives aid during battle scenes. Her remains, brought from Nice, are buried at the foot of the monument. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
The heretic sent to the pyre |
Piazza Campo de' Fiori Rome, Rome 00186 |
Giordano Bruno was sent to the pyre in Campo dei Fiori in February 1600. It was not, unfortunately, the only execution to take place on the site but was certainly the most famous. A monument dedicated to the philosopher and designed by Ettore Ferrari was raised in the centre of the square in 1887. The statue is made from bronze and stands on a stone base decorated with scenes from the life of Bruno as well as other figures from history described as heretics, including Erasmus, Tommaso Campanella, Paolo Sarpi, and Luther. Bruno is shown standing covered and hooded by a long cloak; the book in his hand is perhaps symbolic of his theories and ideas which were daring for the time and resulted in his terrible death. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marco Fuccillo |
 Photo: Michela |
 Photo: Matt Hell |
 Photo: Andrea Morasso |
The liberator king |
Piazza Bra Verona 37121 |
In the centre of the gardens, which are next to the Arena, there is an equestrian statue which is dedicated to Victorio Emanuele II of Savoy (1820-1878),the first king of Italy and nicknamed the "gentleman". The monument was erected for the reasons written on the base: "on the fifth anniversary of his death, tears are shed for him by the whole of the civilised world-9th January 1883." It is to thank the sovereign who "with wonderful virtue made a weak and divided Italy into an independent and free whole". Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lindseymo |
Priceless fountain |
Piazza Navona Rome, Rome 00186 |
The Moro Fountain was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and sculpted by Giovanni Antonio Mari in 1653. Located at the southern end of Piazza Navona, it is symmetrically opposite the Neptune fountain by Giacomo della Porta, built in the previous century. Between the two fountains there is a third - the beautiful Quattro Fiumi fountain by Bernini. Bonetti, a famous Roman poet, wrote about the people's love for the fountain. It was about an Englishwoman who wanted to buy the fountain at any cost. However the pontifex refused because he didn't want the Romans to be deprived of this wonderful work of art. They say that the English lady died from grief at the refusal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christina Chen |
The UFO base |
Val di Susa Turin |
Mount Musiné stands on the boundary between Val Susa and Val Lanzo. It can be seen from the Turin-Bardonnecchia motorway and is easily recognisable as it is completely bare of houses or vegetation, unlike the surrounding mountains. Probably it is this aspect that has attracted so many legends. The most famous is that a UFO base was discovered inside the mountain. Periodically, the newspapers publish interviews with people who have seen strange lights fly over the mountain, and some claim to have seen aliens walking up there at night. In addition, the nearby Lake Avigliana is supposed to be a site of strange goings on. So if you pass this area, keep your eyes on the sky and you may see something unusual above you. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: really_billythekid |
Home of the famous glassware |
Isola di Murano Venice 30141 +39 739586 |
This island in the Venetian lagoon is famous for the glassware it produces. Don't miss the opportunity to see glass-blowers at work; it certainly requires extreme skill to take a lump of glass and turn it into glassware. Most glass workshops and factories can be visited free of charge, and more glassware can be admired at the Museo Vetrario, which displays the history of Venetian glass through the course of time. Take advantage of the lean crowds during the off-season winter months. Note: boats to Murano leave from Fondamenta Nuove. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: GreenyJay |
 Photo: Daniel Wischenbarth |
 Photo: pj2328 |
 Photo: Cian O'Sullivan |
 Photo: Floriana Riga |
 Photo: roksoslav |
 Photo: pure.mouse |
 Photo: Javiera Basualdo |
 Photo: Luca Bacco |
 Photo: Ashleigh Inglis, NZ |
 Photo: Robert Rosen |
 Photo: Michael Bravo |
 Photo: Photography by Steven Frudak |
 Photo: night86mare |
 Photo: Dan Tarjan |
 Photo: julian coultas |
 Photo: Kristen Clarke |
 Photo: Anna Martini |
 Photo: Francesco Ramigni |
Famous statue |
Piazza Maggiore Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40121 |
This fountain is in the middle of Piazza del Nettuno, between Palazzo Re Enzo and the Palazzo Comunale. It was built following the urban rennovation project planned by the Legato Pontificio Pierdonato Cesi and commissioned by Pope Pious IV. The work on the magnificent statue of Neptune was assigned to Gianbologna, while the base was designed by Tommaso Laureti. It is an excellent example of the Bolognese renaissance, and incarnates the God Neptune who rules the seas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stewart Fleming |
 Photo: Kristian Wood |
 Photo: James McGivern |
 Photo: Susan Costa |
 Photo: Jason K. Harrell |
 Photo: ralae27 |
 Photo: Matteo Lo Prete |
 Photo: helen.balfry |
 Photo: Francesco Paroni |
 Photo: Ale Raga |
More modern than one might think |
Piazza Navona Rome 00186 |
The Fountain of Neptune was first known as the Fountain of the Calderari. It dates from 1576 and was designed by Giacomo Della Porta. It stands on the north side of Piazza Navona and symmetrically opposite the Fountain of the Moor on the south side. It was to maintain this symmetry that a competition was held in 1878 to adorn the fountain that had originally been built quite plain. The results were that the statue of Neptune by Antonio Della Bitta was added to the fountain from which the current name is derived. The god is fighting an octopus and is surrounded by Nereids, putti and seahorses which were added around the large tank by the sculptor Gregorio Zappalà. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: fstopgg44 |
From clock to monument |
Piazza di Monte Citorio Rome, Rome 00187 |
Augustus positioned this obelisk in 10 BC in Campo Marzio, and it was used as the pointer for a sundial that unfortunately became inaccurate after just 50 years. For centuries it remained unused in the square, and then disappeared: it was rediscovered five centuries later, covered by other ancient structures. Another 300 years passed before the obelisk was at last re-erected in its present position in front of Palazzo di Montecitorio. It came from Heliopolis in Egypt, and it is covered with hieroglyphs that were thought, during the 16th century, to be the key revealing the mystery of the wisdom of Adam before he was driven out of the Garden of Eden. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Angel Barbero |
Characteristic and commercial town on the plains |
Opicina Trieste, Trieste |
The name Opicina has Celtic origins and according to the best accredited sources, means 'rock.' Its first mention dates back to a document from 1308 which mentions the name Optchena. Until the early 1900s, Opicino was a rural village consisting of a few houses in the heart of the Trieste plain and has only recently become a decently-sized, proper commercial town, completely autonomous, containing a good proportion of the Slovenian minority. House prices have rocketed since the opening of lovely bars and restaurants, the installation of cash dispensers and classy shops. There still remain some original typical Carso constructions with well, stables and courtyard enclosed by large, wooden doors on which you can still see the divine inscription IHS with a cross and a heart. The church at the centre of the village, is dedicated to Saint Bartholemew. Opicina also holds the tram terminus, the old means of transport that links the city and the plain and the famous Sant' Honoré confectioners, one of the city's most tasty and popular which is worth at one visit once you're up there. There are many walks and excursions in the Carso woods that set off from here as does the main road that leads to Slovenia and Croatia. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gaurav Narain |
 Photo: Erich Linkheu |
 Photo: maphotography |
 Photo: Alice |
 Photo: WojtAsia |
A romantic and scenic trip out of the city |
Carso Trieste, Trieste |
A scenic and romantic way to get up to Trieste's Carso is by going in the tram. This old rail system was opened in 1902 and has become part of local folklore, there are even local traditional songs about it. The tram is managed by a transport business consortium and costs them hundreds of millions of Lire every year. It leaves from the city centre's Piazza Oberdan and travels the 5 kilometres up the Scorcola to the town of Obicina. It is far more than just a means of transport however, it is a large tourist attraction and represents an important part of the city's recent history as well as being part of the heart and soul of the city. The route that it follows is extraordinary, passengers sit on the wooden seats and benches you feel as if you are on an old fashioned merry go round. There is a fantastic view from the windows: you can see Trieste, the bay and Miramare castle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paris Franz |
 Photo: Walter Scherlich |
 Photo: rhythm beating silence aka rbs |
 Photo: Monica Bernich |
Rome's first houses |
Via San Gregorio Rome, Rome 00184 +39 6 699 0110 |
Just south of the Roman Forum and offering a stunning view of the ancient city, this area includes imperial and patrician residences including those of the Emperor Domitian. Originally the Domus Flavia had walls completely lined with polished marble - Domitian feared assassination and in this way he could see the reflection of anyone coming towards him. The courtyard still has its fine pavement in coloured marble. Close by can be seen a number of holes, made for the posts of huts, possibly dating from the 9th century BC. It is thought that these were Rome's first huts, attributed by legend to the hand of Romulus himself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hunmanby |
 Photo: Len Gibson |
 Photo: Oscar Gruno |
 Photo: Markus Bakka Hjerto |
 Photo: Matt Keyworth |
 Photo: Forsythia Hopkins |
 Photo: Nathan Earixson |
 Photo: Kristoffer Balling |
 Photo: Rajan Vig |
 Photo: Jennifer Ma |
 Photo: Thomas L. Ellis |
 Photo: Angela |
 Photo: bagamanov |
 Photo: Alessandro Haag |
 Photo: James Mans |
 Photo: Ernst Ludwig Galling |
 Photo: Marcus Lodwick |
Trieste's new sports complex |
Via Flavia Trieste 34138 urp@comune.trieste.it |
This is Trieste's new futuristic sports complex, opened in 1999. The local basket ball team plays here, and is in the top national division. Guest exhibitions and easy listening concerts are also often held here. There is comfortable seating for around 10,000 and well-lit open spaces characterise this construction which was long-awaited by the local council. It is easy to get into via dell'Istria and then via Flavia, the wide road that leads to the enchanting Muggia, and you will pass the football stadium (it's impossible to miss), on your right is the small square that houses the dome of Palatrieste. Otherwise, take the main road, a super-elevated construction that crosses the province and has its own exit here. Of course there is plenty of parking in the vicinity. For information on the calendar of events and matches you can refer to the local information office on the number indicated. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: xetutiocupai |
Small music pavilion |
1 Largo Marinai d'Italia Milan, Milan 20135 +39 2 5519 5967 |
When the huge fruit and vegetable market between Via Cadore and Corso XXII Marzo was demolished and turned into a park after WW2, the building known as Palazzina Liberty was left untouched. Designed by Migliorini in 1908 and completed in 1910 as a refreshment area for the market, the slender building now stands in the middle of the park. Its sinuous ceramic decorations and floral reliefs that surround the main frontages and glassed exhedras of the sides are a splendid example of Milanese Art Nouveau. During the 1960's, it was used by Dario Fo and his troupe as a setting for their productions; since the 1980's it has become the home of the Civica Orchestra dei Fiati and a setting for concerts and events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: iaiagolightly |
Rationalist architecture |
2 Largo Guido Donegani Milan, Milan 20122 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Commissioned to Gio Ponti between 1935 and 1938 the building soon became a symbol of rationalist Milan architecture between the two wars. In the shape of an H with a private opening onto Via Moscova on one floor is ideal for offices with its internal layout, furnishings and external aspect working together in perfect harmony. Externally, the green marble walls and the standardised iron and aluminium locks annonce the exxpressive clarity and attention to detail that can also be seen on the inside. The complex actually offers avant garde, typological solutions (mobile floors with individual work posts) as well as technological ones (controlled heating and inflateable posts) which Ponti took care of paying great attention to detail. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabiola D'Alessandro |
 Photo: Fabiola D'Alessandro |
Magistrate's palace |
2 Piazza dei Mercanti Milan 20121 +39 2 7252 4301 (l'ufficio turistico) |
This ancient medieval building, that once housed municipal offices and legal institutions, was rebuilt from 1562 on as 'Palazzo dei Giureconsulti' to a design by Vincenzo Seregni. The building, formed by a loggia and a tower, a 16th-century sheath built around the original 13th-century construction, is based on the architecture of Galeazzo Alessi. The complete design included an overall refurbishment of the ancient Piazza Mercanti to create a new forum, and this was partially executed with the construction, on the south side of the piazza, of the 'Scuole Palatine' building. In the 19th century, the street named Via Mercanti was opened up, totally modifying the original concept and rendering it totally unrecognizable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michele Ficara Manganelli |
Ancient institute |
Piazza dei Mercanti Milan, Milan 20123 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
At the centre of Piazza dei Mercanti, once a quadrangle enclosed on all four sides, one finds Palazzo della Ragione, what was known as the 'Broletto', commissioned by the ruler of the city Oldrado da Tresseno (1228-1233) who is depicted in an equestrian monument in a niche on the façade facing the piazza. The rectangular-plan building consists of a loggia on the ground floor, which today is higher than the surroundings due to the successive lowering of the street level. In 1771 another floor was added, the so-called "Teresian extension", for the Notarial Archive: it can be recognized from the large elliptic windows. The monument was restored during the 1970s. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gianni D |
 Photo: renagrisa |
Famous music hall |
30 Viale Pietro de Coubertin Flaminio Rome, Rome 00196 +39 (0)6 8024 1281 http://www.auditorium.com/ info@musicaperroma.it |
The Parco della Musica-Cavea Auditorium hosts a series of concerts, festivals, events and other shows in an open-air stadium. The new hemicycle theatre brings in some of the best performers in the nation including Diana Ross, Joe Jackson and Jim Hall. "Flamenco", "Luglio Suona Bene" and "PianoSolo" are three of the musical festivals held at the Auditorium each year. The Auditorium brings in a cross cultural mix of musical tastes from ballet to opera to jazz. For the best performances in Rome, visit the Auditorium while tickets are still available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ilaria Faggiano |
 Photo: piero ruggiero |
 Photo: federico_piccin |
 Photo: Davide Caricato |
 Photo: Silvia Ascone |
 Photo: Patrick |
 Photo: laboratorioimago.it |
 Photo: Jan Berckmans |
 Photo: Francesco Drei |
 Photo: ciquicici |
 Photo: marina esmeraldo |
 Photo: angelo de pierro |
 Photo: Patrizia Ferri |
 Photo: qw8dl |
 Photo: federico_piccin |
The voice of the people |
Piazza di Pasquino Rome, Rome 00186 |
The Pasquino is one of Rome's best-loved statues although its origins are unknown. It was found during the digging of the foundations of Cardinal Carafa's palace. Experts have attempted to identify the figure portrayed and several hypotheses have been put forward. The most probable is the one suggested by Michelangelo and Bernini, who both believed that it was a portrait of Menelaus dragging the dead body of Patroclus. The name Pasquino has several origins; some thought it might have been the name of the owner of an inn in the district, others a tailor who spoke ill of prelates and nobles, others a barber. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Max Mattioni |
 Photo: Daniel Guest |
 Photo: Massimiliano Valli |
 Photo: Katong |
 Photo: Michael Breshears |
 Photo: Maribel Rodriguez |
The family square |
Piazza Barberini Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
After Via del Tritone and Via Veneto were opened into Piazza Barberini, the square took on its present aspect. During the 17th c., it was named after the noble Barberini family that owned a large palace here with gardens that has now become the National Gallery of Ancient Art. The Barberini were also celebrated by two fountains by Bernini commissioned by Pope Urban VIII, the Triton fountain and the Bee fountain; the latter bears the family's coat of arms. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Nevi |
 Photo: Scott Somerville |
 Photo: Luciano C. |
 Photo: Pieter Schepens |
 Photo: Manuela Greco |
 Photo: axiom4 |
 Photo: valeriohotshag88 |
 Photo: Teresa Vilaseca |
 Photo: Corrado Alisonno |
 Photo: Jonathan Weiss |
 Photo: Barnaby Welch |
 Photo: Scott Leishman |
 Photo: Delianet |
 Photo: Mark Stockwell |
 Photo: lou lou6 |
 Photo: Raj Uppala |
 Photo: Jeff Schwartz Jr. |
 Photo: Stefano |
 Photo: Minkz Ngo |
Numerous restaurants and bars |
Piazza Vincenzo Bellini Naples 80135 |
The piazza was developed over several years and serves as one of the the boundaries to the Greco-Roman city. At the centre of the piazza, you will see the remains of a wall dating back to the fourth century B.C. which runs down what is now the Via Constantinopoli, towards the Piazza San Domenico. The steps of the old Sant'Antonio delle Monache delle Monache boarding school "Sant'Antoniello", (now used by the Frederico II University) cuts off the piazza on one of its shorter sides. The whole complex came into being between the end of the seventeenth century and 1730. At No.98 Via Constantinopoli stands the Firrao palace with its beautiful portal topped by the family coats of arms and the statues depicting 'Magnanimity' and 'Liberality' - two virtues which the owner of the palace recognised in himself. The palace itself was built in the sixteenth century for the princes of Saint Agatha, and was re-structured in the mid-seventeenth century. It now houses the ARIN offices. The piazza is host to a number of restaurants and bars which make a pleasant stop-off point both during the day and at night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sax Steffen |
The piazza of the bourgeoisie |
Piazza Bra, 1 Verona 37121 |
The heart of the Veronese beats in Piazza Bra and not simply because the world-famous Arena is the piazza's centrepiece. Walking in piazza Bra after a while you get used to the sight of it and tend not to notice it any more. The 'liston' of the Piazza Bra, or the paving stones laid in 1770 to facilitate the elegant passage of the bourgeoisie, is what saved it from mediocrity at the end of the 1700's. Today the piazza is crowned with many palaces that carry the names of the most important Veronese families. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: giorgio gherardi |
 Photo: Anne Mocarski |
 Photo: Laura Rugnone |
 Photo: dadeblog |
 Photo: Stefano Gozzo |
 Photo: vincenzo |
 Photo: Multimouse |
 Photo: Claire Ashman |
 Photo: Vittorio |
 Photo: Roberta Sesti |
 Photo: Marco Gi |
 Photo: die.tine |
 Photo: Damian Kolbay |
Sunbathing on the benches |
Via Carlo Alberto Turin 10123 |
Don't be surprised if you see youngsters asleep or sunbathing on the benches in this square during the summer. It is a custom of the visitors to the National Library next door to give up on their studies for a while and enjoy a pause in the sun. The square is very beautiful and has an equestrian statue of Carlo Alberto at its centre made in 1861 by Carlo Marocchetti. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eleonora Toso |
 Photo: Diego |
 Photo: Andrea |
 Photo: Matteo Visconti |
 Photo: effe.bi |
Count Cavour |
Piazza Cavour Rome, Rome 00193 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Moving away from St Peter's along Via Crescenzio, you come to Piazza Cavour. It is surrounded by buildings, including the massive Palace of Justice, the theatre-auditorium Adriano, and the Valdese church. The square is decorated with flowers and palm trees and has become more popular over recent years as a result of the annual book fair which was moved here from Castel Sant'Angelo. The monument in the centre, dedicated to the famous statesman, Camillo Benso, Count Cavour, was inaugurated in 1895 in the presence of the royal family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: romantzki |
Dolphins playing with the water |
Piazza Colonna Rome, Rome 00187 |
The fountain in the Piazza Colonna is made from a large octagonal marble tank that rests on two steps. The exterior is decorated with lions' heads. The restoration it underwent in 1830 saw the addition of two dolphins whose intertwined tails are inserted in two open shells from which the water spurts out. A larger jet plays between these two smaller ones. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Antonio |
Central piazza in Naples |
Piazza Dante Naples 80135 |
This is the most important and most centrally located piazza in Naples. It was called, "Largo del Mercatello" until 1588, during which time it hosted a market. After the Unification of Italy, it was named after the poet Dante Alighieri. His statue was erected in the middle of the piazza in 1872. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: pisma_zutor |
 Photo: Tekno DMNK |
 Photo: Roderik K |
 Photo: Giuseppe Zizza |
 Photo: Kaii Wang |
 Photo: Alessandra Finelli |
 Photo: marc_ulieriu |
 Photo: Paula de Maupas |
Nearly Duomo |
Piazza Fontana Milan, Milan 20121 +39 (0)2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio turistico) |
This square is named after the fountain designed by Giuseppe Piermarini and sculpted by Giuseppe Franchi in 1782. It is one of the few historical piazzas of the city, which generally features large building blocks with hidden interior courtyards rather than open communal spaces. The original buildings have been replaced by more recent pieces of architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: verolams |
 Photo: fotografaindivenire |
 Photo: David Saltuari |
 Photo: SalvatorePinelli |
 Photo: JORGE BASSY ALVAREZ |
The most beautiful medieval piazza in Italy |
Piazza Maggiore Bologna 40124 |
The buildings, which face onto this beautiful medieval piazza it were all built between 1200 and 1400. The Piazza forms the heart of city and it provides a wonderful backdrop for everyday city life. The streets are full of artists, university students and families with children. When the sun is high, they move from the open areas of the square to the shade of the Basilica di San Petronio. Here they sit and witness the daily life of a city which is famous for its university, architecture, tortellini and the extraordinary vitality of the people who live there. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marta Papini |
 Photo: r h b |
 Photo: Agata&Andrew Mleczko |
 Photo: Rodrigo Rivera |
 Photo: Luca Busi |
 Photo: Alessio |
 Photo: Greg Nusz |
 Photo: Copyright:Ben Marley |
 Photo: desi.italy |
 Photo: Maria Chiara Cherchi |
 Photo: Melanie Becchi |
 Photo: Dimensione Intima |
A hidden corner |
Piazza Margana Rome, Rome 00186 |
The streets between Piazza Venezia, Piazza del Campidoglio and Via delle Botteghe Oscure lead to Piazza Margana or Piazza Marghane, the square named after the powerful family that lived in the district. This medieval area was not touched during modifications to Rome made in the 19th and 20th centuries. The palaces of the nobility were all built in the 17th c. over Renaissance buildings so they have maintained their original characteristics. The Palazzo Albertoni was frequented by artists and writers who instituted the monthly prize, the 'Tor Margana', which lasted until the 1970s. The square was also used for open-air art exhibitions during those years. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
Arnaldo Pomodoro's disc |
Piazza Filippo Meda Milan, Milan 20121 |
Separated from Piazza Belgioioso by a large park, Piazza Filippo Meda was opened in 1926 after Corso Matteotti was opened (ex-Corso del Littorio) right the way down to Piazza San Babila. The long space in the square is dominated by the large revolving bronze disc created by sculptor Arnaldo Pomodoro. It is 4.5 metres in diameter and rests on a pivot so that it will turn with the wind or when pushed. Thus the slow movements and reflections of the lacerated disc give it an amazing lightness that suggests a heavenly star randomly come to land in the square. In the background stands the curved form of the Piazza Meda Offices' Building designed by Studio BBPR, the 1928 building by P. Magistretti (no.3), the 1929 HQ of the Banca Popolare by G. Greppi, and the 1928 Palazzo Crespi by P. Portaluppi (between Corso Matteotti and Via Verri). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: zibe_tso |
Waiting for Epiphany |
Piazza Navona Rome 00186 |
During the Christmas season this square is packed with stalls selling toys, sweets and decorations for the Nativity scene or Christmas tree, making it a favourite spot for children. Its unusual shape recalls the time of Domitian, who built a stadium for equestrian displays here. The Fountain of the Rivers, with the obelisk, and the Fountain of the Moor, with the god of the sea, at the centre of the square, are both by Bernini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gillian Rushing |
 Photo: Franz St. |
 Photo: marco beni |
 Photo: Wilko Miletic |
 Photo: Paolo Giorgio, Rome |
 Photo: Graham Currey |
 Photo: Kevin Welker |
 Photo: aRainBow'sEnd |
 Photo: Bob Woerner |
 Photo: Brendan Baldwin |
 Photo: francesco grieco |
 Photo: Helen Clarke |
 Photo: Diego Errico |
 Photo: Kimon Rontidis |
 Photo: Francesco Lanzoni |
 Photo: Michelle Lang |
 Photo: Marco Micoli |
New piazza below the dome |
Piazza Risorgimento Rome, Rome 00192 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Piazza Risorgimento forms the meeting place of Via Cola di Rienzo and the quieter Via Crescenzio; in the form of a long boat, the square has recently been restored for the Jubilee. New long stone benches, flower beds, palms and a new lighting system decorate the square. Despite its central position below St. Peter's, the square was a meeting place for street people and immigrants before the restoration work and was used for parking buses and trams at the end of their lines. Now the circulation has been organised more rationally. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marcelo Druck |
 Photo: Et _vortexsurfer |
A garden with water and stones |
Piazza San Babila Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 7252 4301 (l'ufficio turistico) |
Donated to the city by the Ente Autonomo Fiera Milano in 1997, this fountain was designed by Luigi Caccia Dominioni. It is situated in front of the portico of the Toro Assicurazioni building- a garden of water and stones. The water falls from a central pinnacle into a large quadrangular basin which is surrounded by green 'hills'. Using an intelligent combination of stone (it is almost a living museum of Lombardian stone - Serizzo from Val Masino, pink granite from Baveno and red granite from Val Gerola, to Dubino from Valtellina) and forms, the fountain stands as a symbol and an expression of the resources to be found in the region. Thus the water, of which Milan became so proud, and which is today a forgotten part of the city, has rediscovered a role in an urban context and has become a focus for relaxation in the crowded and chaotic city centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Max Melley |
Saint Peter's Square attracts the world |
Piazza San Pietro Rome, Rome 00193 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Enclosed by Bernini's magnificent colonnade, this square has the largest number of visitors in the world. Millions of tourists wait here either for the Pope's Sunday blessing or to enter the Basilica. More than a square, the colonnade gives it the atmosphere of a courtyard, inviting people to enter the church. During Christmas, a nativity scene and a Christmas tree are installed, and there is a remarkable atmosphere of celebration, with the majestic dome dominating the scene behind. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joan Marc Tudurí Cla |
 Photo: Lia Cedro |
 Photo: Dan Osdieck |
 Photo: dorianella |
 Photo: RaceBioConcept |
 Photo: B Radek |
 Photo: tramani_sagrens |
 Photo: Maurice Tfilin |
 Photo: M@rcello;-) |
 Photo: simbo74 |
 Photo: jbg2160 |
 Photo: Fotogramática |
 Photo: ch_dahmen |
 Photo: zarpynho |
 Photo: mavi serra |
 Photo: Simon Cast |
 Photo: Ola Zagozda |
 Photo: indigo.turbo |
 Photo: Vladimir Malina |
Historic balcony |
Piazza Venezia Rome, Rome 00187 |
Beset on all sides by roads, the square is heavily congested with traffic. In the background, the Altare della Patria is dedicated to King Vittorio Emanuele. Romans refer to it as the 'wedding cake' or the 'typewriter' because of its shape and colour. Shortly after WW1, the body of the Unknown Soldier was brought here and placed in the centre of the steps of the Vittoriano. It has a permanent armed guard. Palazzo Venezia was built during the second half of the 15th c. and was where the Venetian ambassadors to Rome stayed. Later it became the residence of the Cardinal of the Basilica of St Mark. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Boxley |
 Photo: brohawns |
 Photo: Mark Noakes |
 Photo: Beatnik Photo |
 Photo: zukrin |
 Photo: Emilio García |
 Photo: Luigi Fiano |
 Photo: Jeff Thomas |
 Photo: Emanuele Del Grande |
 Photo: Sal Romano |
 Photo: Laurie |
 Photo: Ravi Rajasingham |
 Photo: Krystal |
 Photo: anandrashmiphotos |
 Photo: Bartek Lis |
Famous fabulous market |
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II Rome, Rome 00185 |
This square, now filled with market stalls, is considered to be the first square in the new Italy. The market has been present since the Second World War, and has became the place to find everything from food to stolen goods. The municipal authorities have been gradually reorganising the market, improving the layout of stalls and working on the garden area at its centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Florencia Di Stefano |
 Photo: Gianluca Olmastroni |
 Photo: deltafotoromeitaly |
 Photo: Luigi Zarrillo |
A moment of notoriety |
Piazza dei Quiriti Rome, Rome 00192 |
Near Via Cola di Rienzo in the district of Prati there is a small, circular and rundown square known as Piazza Quiriti that has been chosen as a refuge by a number of street people. In the first half of the 20th century the square had a fountain that was one of five erected in Rome during the 1920s to embellish the city. But this one was severely criticised for its obscene female figures, positioned right in front of the church of San Gioachhino ai Prati. The result was a flood of curious sightseers to this relatively unknown area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: maria raffaela scalfati |
 Photo: Andrea Maccioni |
The city's impressive central square |
Piazza del Duomo Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
The gigantic central square in front of Milan cathedral has always been a reference point for Milan's town planners. It was a meeting point for important roads before and during the Roman period. In the 4th century, it was a religious centre with the construction of the Basilica of Santa Tecla, and the Baptistry of San Giovanni alle Fonti (both demolished in the mid-14th century and their foundations can be seen below the space in front of the cathedral). Since 1386, the cathedral has been the religious and cultural centre of the city. Symmetrical porticoes line the longer sides (with the Arengario pavilions built in 1939 and the Royal Palace on the south side and Galleria on the north side). In the centre stands the equestrian statue of Vittorio Emanuele II by Ercole Rosa (1878) which was covered until a few years ago by flashing advertising signs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: parocom |
 Photo: Mikaela Cortopassi |
 Photo: Skurkey |
 Photo: jgc-cc06 |
 Photo: Reginald Van de Velde |
 Photo: melronald |
 Photo: Mabella |
 Photo: Elena Torre |
 Photo: fly281 |
 Photo: Pierpaolo Antelmi |
 Photo: Jennifer Holland |
 Photo: Ana Gasston |
 Photo: andrea natalini |
 Photo: Elizabeth Longden |
 Photo: P. Goodwin |
Square with important landmarks |
Via della Canonica, 1 Next to Piazza San Giovanni Florence, Florence 50122 +39 (0)55 21 2245 (Tourist Information Office) |
Piazza del Duomo, namely Cathedral Square, is one of the most-visited landmarks in Florence. Various events including the Cornetto Music Festival are periodically held here, and the grand Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is the chief attraction. The beautiful frescoes within will fascinate those who have an eye for art. Meanwhile history buffs will love the Cathedral Museum, which houses a fine collection of sculptures. For better photo opportunities get on top of the Campanile di Giotto (the Giotto Bell Tower)—the view of the piazza will take your breath away. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francisco Antunes |
 Photo: Luca Ciccarelli |
 Photo: Ken Horn |
 Photo: Marieke L. van der Velden |
 Photo: Amedeo Fontana |
 Photo: Defne Ezgi |
The tip of the trident |
Piazza del Popolo Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
During the Middle Ages, this square formed the main entrance to the city for pilgrims and travellers arriving on the Via Flaminia (from the north). It was only when Pope Sixtus V placed the 1200 BC Egyptian obelisk of Ramses II in the centre of the square that Piazza del Popolo took on its current function. The obelisk is the tip of the trident formed by the three streets that begin in the square: Via del Corso, Via di Ripetta and Via del Babuino. Valadier was the architect who gave the square its present elliptical appearance by building the two ramps that lead to the Pincio. Two shell-shaped fountains overlooked by groups of statues stand in the two hemicycles. Valadier was also responsible for the buildings on Via del Babuino and Via di Ripetta that are today occupied by the famous cafés Rosati and Canova. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: realismo magico |
 Photo: Marloes |
 Photo: Gilda Tramontana |
 Photo: Samantha |
 Photo: paolomasa |
 Photo: Jan Smets |
 Photo: Hans Kristian Aas |
 Photo: Andrea Parmigiani |
 Photo: Panagiotis Risvas |
 Photo: Francis Tuason |
 Photo: Gianfranco Chicco |
 Photo: Giuseppe Pace |
 Photo: Sanish Suresh |
 Photo: Chris 2001 |
 Photo: Simon Brent |
 Photo: Steven Mills |
 Photo: Henk Streunding |
Right in the heart of ancient Rome |
Piazza della Maddalena Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Little-known due to the overshadowing presence of the nearby Piazza Rotonda in front of the Pantheon, Piazza Maddalena was built in 1628 with the aim of providing the church of Santa Maria della Maddalena with a space for religious ceremonies and processions. The request for the space was granted by Pope Urban VIII and the piazza was paid for privately. When the church was given its façade by Giuseppe Sarti in the 18th century (the only Rococo façade in Rome), the piazza was the only place from which the elaborate façade could be admired. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
The crossroads |
Piazza della Mercanzia Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40125 |
The Piazza is actually formed by a crossroads between four streets (hence its old name "il Carrobbio"). The square is particularly beautiful due to the medieval noble buildings which face onto it. The most impressive of these is the Palazzo della Mercanzia which was the old meeting place for the city's merchants. Via S.Stefano goes from the left hand side of the building and there you can find the twelfth century Torre Alberici at N.4 and the beautiful sixteenth century Palazzo Bolognini at n.9-11. The latter was built by Formigini and has a series of carved stones which were sculpted by Alfonso Lombardi and Niccolò da Volterra. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: foto daniel |
 Photo: Uomo in ammollo |
The centre of the baths |
Piazza della Repubblica Rome, Rome 00185 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The fountain with the four bronze statues of the Najadi by Mario Rutelli stands in the centre of the square, on one side there's the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli and Diocletian's Baths, and on the other there are buildings of various architectural styles. Called Piazza della Repubblica after WW2, it still officially bears the name that refers to the central exedra of the Baths as well as being known as Piazza Esedra. The square is a meeting point for official demonstrations and for receiving visiting delegations from abroad. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alison Merikangas |
 Photo: brocame |
 Photo: Francesco Panceri |
 Photo: Ezgi Yersu |
 Photo: William Silcott |
 Photo: Kjell_F |
 Photo: Ryan Thomson |
 Photo: Vincent LEE |
 Photo: andrewrm |
 Photo: specchio dal picchio |
 Photo: ::carol monti:: |
 Photo: sophia bengtsson |
 Photo: pablo siruffo |
 Photo: Isabella Del Peschio |
 Photo: Marco Mariani |
 Photo: JoeRuny |
 Photo: Pedro Curi |
Domestic atmosphere |
Piazza delle Coppelle Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
This lovely square is full of colour provided by the fruit market and also by the architecture of the medieval constructions, characterized by the bright paint colours used for decoration. This piazza was created by uniting three squares around the medieval church San Salvatore delle Coppelle. The homes here are not all that large: there is an 18th century building with stucco work, and another small house with a balcony in Roman Baroque style and a doorway that seems enormous compared to the rest of the construction. Here, there is still a country town atmosphere, with the market, people shopping with their bags and trolleys, completely different to the nearby streets full of shops and tourists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dcornell |
Meeting at the Steps |
Piazza di Spagna Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) http://www.piazzadispagna.it/ |
An incredible, almost theatrical square with the lovely Spanish steps leading up to the Chiesa di Trinità dei Monti. One of the most important fashion shows is held here, the steps being used as a catwalk. It is now an international meeting point. The fountain known as the 'Barcaccia' (boat) was commissioned by Urbano Barberini to commemorate the alliance made with the King of France, whose coat of arms can be seen on Trinità dei Monti. The square leads into several famous streets, Via Dei Condotti, Via Frattina and Via Borgognona with their luxurious boutiques, and Via Del Babuino with its antique shops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Serena Albini |
 Photo: nomereyes |
 Photo: Paulo78 |
 Photo: enrguerrero |
 Photo: Camillo Miller |
 Photo: marco |
 Photo: Edoardo |
 Photo: nunzy |
 Photo: art chow |
 Photo: Nur Esra Kardes |
 Photo: Cheng-Ting Chang |
 Photo: Ulrika Jansson |
 Photo: Daniel Marzini |
 Photo: Elena |
 Photo: oRi0n |
Gae Aulenti and Claes Oldenburg in Milan |
Piazzale Luigi Cadorna Milan, Milan |
Once an unstructured space between Castello Sforzesco and the Magenta district, Piazzale Cadorna has become a new port of entry to the city. Now it is dominated by the ugly mass of the Cadorna station where thousands of commuters are disgorged into the city each morning. In 1998, the railway company and Milan City Council commissioned Gae Aulenti to reorganise the area. The operation rationalised the road system with traffic dividers created by water tanks, and created a vast pedestrian area for train passengers partly covered by aluminium and glass structures joined to the station facade. The attractive forest of red pillars, the water that flows from the beams of the platform roof, and the transparent covers bring to mind a 19th century covered market. They are part of a courageous an interesting architectural project initiated by the city and crowned by the majestic sculpture of Claes Oldenburg and Coosije van Bruggen. It is an enormous steel needle 18 meters tall wrapped in a highly colored glass resin that gives a new vital identity to the square and around which the life of the square revolves. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessandro Andreotti |
 Photo: Francesco Paolo |
 Photo: Erica Fontana |
 Photo: hey, stupido gatto! |
 Photo: Alessio Degrandi |
 Photo: pozzianna.it |
 Photo: Reinaldo Ferro |
 Photo: emanuela errico |
 Photo: kinitta |
 Photo: PLUSMILEZ. |
 Photo: στρατός (formerly kn |
 Photo: mainone |
 Photo: Giorgia Lovisotto |
 Photo: Esther |
 Photo: Lua17 |
A thoughtful Mazzini |
Piazzale Ugo La Malfa Rome, Rome 00153 |
Piazzale Ugo La Malfa (originally known as Piazzale Romolo e Remo) lies not too far from the Aventino hill crossed by the Viale del Circo Massimo. Today it is dedicated to Giuseppe Mazzini, the first man to govern the modern country of Italy. The attractive panorama takes in the Palatine hill in front, the Alban hills in the distance to the right, and the majestic dome of St Peter's to the left. The piazzale also faces the remains of the Circus Maximus, today a huge grassy area of about 500 metres in which the ruins of steps, tiers and fornexes are still visible. The monument to Mazzini by Ettore Ferrari was inaugurated about 20 years after the centenary of the Roman republic in 1949. The bronze statue stands on a tall marble base decorated with large relief figures. Mazzini is shown seated and in deep thought. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alfredo Villa |
Marine horses |
Piazzale dei Cavalli Marini Rome 00197 |
Piazzale dei Cavalli Marini lies about half way down the Viale dei Cavalli Marini near the lovely Piazza Siena in Villa Borghese. The name comes from the enormous circular fountain that almost fills the square and includes four huge marine horses mostly immersed in a large tank at ground level (i.e. dug out of the ground). The four support another, smaller horse. The fountain was created at the end of the 18th c. by Unterberger. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: :: My Mom Said I Could :: |
Bridge on Via Postumia |
Via Sabbionaia Verona 37121 |
This stone bridge was built after the second World War, between 1957 and 1959, on the site of an ancient Roman bridge on the Via Postumia, an important line of communication between Genoa and Aquileia. The bridge has five arches: the one on the left dates back to the Roman period, the central one, and the one after it are by Antonio Scarpagnino and date back to 1520, while the final one on the right and the brick tower intended for the defence of the bridge were built at the time of Alberto I della Scala (1298). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Manuel |
 Photo: Sarah Mennicken |
 Photo: The Dark Free Soul |
 Photo: vladocar |
 Photo: Loretta Tore |
 Photo: Francesco Sabaini |
 Photo: lamberto.cesari |
Gio Ponti's masterwork |
5 Piazza Duca d'Aosta Milan, Milan 20124 |
This skyscraper has been the home of the Regione Lombardia since 1978. It was built between 1955 and 1960 on the old Pirelli site which was bombed in 1943, in order to house the new headquarters of the Milan based organisation. It was designed by Gio Ponti with the collaboration of Pier Luigi Nervi. It is 127m tall and is still the tallest building in the city and the most prestigious post-war work of architecture. Using a similar scheme to the comtemporary Torre velasca by the BBPR studio, Ponti combines an innovative rectangular design with sides tapering up to the narrower extremities. The building grows around a hidden core covered in reinforced concrete. The tapered style and the pointed elements which are at odds with the finished appearance of the building surface make the skyscraper a unique example of architectural lightness, dynamism and extraordinary resolution of the relationship between structures and technology. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Åhnebrink |
 Photo: indigo.turbo |
 Photo: Chiara G. |
 Photo: Dromedario dei Sogni |
 Photo: melonlimon79 |
 Photo: Nellomilanese |
 Photo: TöNeT's point of vie |
 Photo: Lady Eva |
 Photo: Dario Solera |
 Photo: Ina Kristensen |
 Photo: Jeff Mooney |
 Photo: Thomas |
 Photo: Paolo Ciceri |
Florentine icon |
Ponte Vecchio Florence 50125 |
Best known of all Florence's treasures, this glorious bridge was the only one spared by the retreating Germans in the summer of 1944. Over the centuries flooding unfortunately, took its toll; few traces of the 10th century bridge remain. Today's bridge, built in the middle of the 14th century, was originally filled with a wide variety of shops that included wool merchants and greengrocers. Grand Duke Fernandino I had these replaced with goldsmiths to gentrify royalty's route to Pitti Palace, reached via the Vasari Corridor that passes over the bridge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dominic Ng Wing Hon |
 Photo: Peggy Tatnall |
 Photo: Ashley Roesler |
 Photo: Giorgio Grande |
 Photo: Tony Klesert |
 Photo: David Wright |
 Photo: walker_dawson |
 Photo: Franz St. |
 Photo: Stefanie Pape |
 Photo: marco |
 Photo: Pellegrini Marco |
 Photo: Germaine |
 Photo: Steven |
 Photo: Holly Anderton |
The entrance to Rome |
Piazza di Porta Maggiore Rome, Rome 00185 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The gate is one of the first examples of architectural recycling, in fact the two arches were not originally part of the city walls but belonged to an aqueduct that Emperor Claudius had built in 52 AD where Via Labincana and Via Prenestina met. Later, the two arches were incorporated into the city walls and were given the name Porta Prenestina. Only later did it become known as Porta Maggiore as a result of its proximity to the church of Santa Maria Maggiore. Today the square in front of the gate has become a focal point of Roman traffic. Buses and trams stop here and the upper part of the gate is used as a railway bridge for trains on their way to and from Termini railway station. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Deds Deds |
 Photo: PhR61 |
 Photo: stefania |
 Photo: roberta vassallo |
 Photo: Andrea Alberti |
 Photo: Elisa della chiesa |
Entrance into Rome |
Piazzale Porta Pia Rome, Rome 00198 |
Raffaele Cadorna entered Rome through this gate and, since then, every 20th September, crowds gather here to commemorate the Risorgimento. The monumental gate by Michelangelo, who designed it for Pope Pius IV, was later completed with the statues of two saints and a painting of the Madonna on the outer side at the command of Pope Pius IX. The nearest point, la Breccia, is decorated with commemorative plaques. In 1932, a statue dedicated to the Bersaglieri (Italian light infantrymen) was erected in the square, and in 1936 the statues of the saints that had been damaged on that fateful 20th September were restored. A mosaic reproducing the painted image of the Madonna was also added, as the original was damaged during the artillery's fire. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessia Milo |
 Photo: ATAVICO |
 Photo: Badnightcafè |
 Photo: K's page |
 Photo: Ines Paolucci |
In remembrance of Belisarius |
Largo Federico Fellini Via Vittorio Veneto Rome, Rome 00187 |
Porta Pinciana lies at the end of Via Veneto and, to tell the truth, not much is known about it. A few incisions suggest that it was originally a simple postern in the Aurelian walls. Currently it has five fornices but originally had only one (the one lined with marble and topped by two towers); the others were opened more recently to speed the traffic. During the Middle Ages it was also known as Porta Belisaria in commemoration of Justinian's general who defended Rome against the Goths and then had the city rebuilt. A Latin graffito on the outer façade (no longer visible) stated 'date obulum Belisario' (Give alms to Belisarius), which was popularly believed to prove the story that, when old and blind, Belisarius used to beg below the gateway that had made him so famous. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ivo Molli |
The biggest weekly market in Rome |
Piazza di Porta Portese Rome, Rome 00153 |
This is surely the most famous market in Rome. As well as stalls selling new clothes it also offers second-hand clothes, antiques, oriental handicrafts and spare parts for bikes and cars. If you are not in a hurry, it is interesting to wander round the Russian stalls which sell clocks and cameras. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Giovanni Zoli |
The demolished gateway |
Piazza di Porta Portese Rome 00153 +39 (0)6 48 8991 (L'information de touristes) |
The name Porta Portese is today linked to the area in front of the ancient gateway where Rome's most famous market is held each Sunday. The market offers clothes, books and second-hand items of every imaginable type. In fact, Porta Portese was the name of the gateway built on the orders of Pope Urban VIII but only finished during the pontificate of Innocent X. It was built on the site of the more ancient Porta Portuense from which it has derived its (vulgarized) modern name. The position of the ancient gate made it enormously important as it governed the trading traffic between Rome and its port (Ostia) but, unfortunately, it was demolished and we only know of its appearance from drawings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: rock me babe |
 Photo: Maija Nurmiranta |
 Photo: Emanuele Losardo |
 Photo: polgaroid |
 Photo: Aira Long |
 Photo: Anna Davern |
 Photo: mrsouthern |
 Photo: Michele Virgilio |
 Photo: draghetto_75 |
 Photo: Prezzo the Pirate |
 Photo: ranxerox - znort |
 Photo: maculato |
 Photo: L'Armando |
 Photo: Paul Jay |
 Photo: Dara Vongsonephet |
Remnant of Florence's city walls |
Piazzale di Porta Romana Florence 50123 |
Forming part of Florence's old 14th-century fortifications, of which there are still solid traces, the two walls spread out from the gate towards Piazza Tasso to the east and to the north-west along the Viali dei Colli. As with the Porta San Frediano, the two great, wooden bolted doors have been conserved. On the square opposite, towards the Poggio Imperiale, a statue by an important contemporary artist, Michelangelo Pistoletto, has been erected. Cast in marble and entitled "Dietrofronte", the statue depicts a woman whose imaginary movement southwards to leave the city is hindered by a heavy bundle on her head which points in the opposite direction towards the city centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stefan Martinsson |
 Photo: Chef_Tony |
 Photo: Alessandra Elle |
 Photo: saulopo |
 Photo: Sergio Giusti |
 Photo: giagir |
Rome's belt |
18 Via di Porta San Sebastiano Rome, Rome 00179 +39 6 7047 5284 |
This is one of the best-preserved gates in the city walls. Originally known as the Porta Appia, it was later named after the nearby catacomb. It was built towards the end of the 3rd century, rebuilt in the 5th century and restored in the 6th. The central part has a number of Byzantine arches with two circular towers at the sides, topped with battlements, a square base and marble cladding. Inside the gate there is the Museo delle Mura, containing prints and models about the history of the city walls. Walk along the top of the walls to Porta Ardeatina, passing along the communications trenches, and go up to a terrace where you can see a late Byzantine Madonna, a tomb incorporated in the wall, and the original staircases. And of course there is a splendid panorama from this site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: monica sisiu |
 Photo: Erron |
 Photo: fabio.mtr |
The triumphal entrance |
Via di Porta San Sebastiano Rome, Rome 00179 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Porta San Sebastiano was originally known as Porta Appia but has also had other names in the past. It was built by Aurelian in 275 AD and renovated by various emperors and popes over the centuries. Today it is one of the best of Rome's conserved gateways. The most important renovation works were carried out by Emperors Arcadius, Honorius and Theodosius, although its current appearance is owed to Belisarius and Narsete from the 6th century. An inscription engraved on the inside of the gate in the 14th century characters records the defeat of Robert of Anjou, king of Naples, in 1327. But the gate also witnessed triumphal events such as the entrance to Rome of Charles V in 1536 after his expedition to Tunisia, and of Marcantonio Colonna in 1571 returning from the victory over the Turks at the Battle of Lepanto. Inside, the Museum of the Roman Walls displays interesting information and exhibits on the development of the city walls. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: paolo s. |
 Photo: Arnold Fang |
 Photo: domrx78 |
The royal entrance |
Piazza del Popolo Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Porta del Popolo was originally known as Porta Flaminia and opened onto the Via Flaminia. It was part of the Aurelian walls and was the most monumental of Rome's gateways. At one time the exterior was restored by Nanni di Baccio Bigio who was inspired by Titus's Arch. The interior was by Bernini who built it to mark the visit of Cristina of Sweden to Rome who had decided to convert to Catholicism. The gateway in the outer façade originally had only a single fornix decorated with columns supporting a Doric architrave and statues of St. Peter and St. Paul. The inner side of the gate was more richly decorated and bore the welcoming inscription to Cristina. The other two fornices were only opened in the gate at a later date. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pauline |
 Photo: Andrew Crampton |
The Archiginnasio's library, former home of the studio... |
Piazza Galvani 1 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40124 |
Located in the attractive piazza dell'Archiginnasio, former home to the Bolognese studio, this library was established at the beginning of the 1800's. The large, bright reading room, decorated with the coats of arms of its noble students and lecturers, is equipped with long and capacious wooden tables, where you can read quietly, is really pleasant. The bibliographic archives contain more than 600,000 volumes, thousands of manuscripts, prints, engravings and old geographical maps. Linked to the Library and collection of designs and prints (open from 9a-1:30p M-S). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Enrico Gori |
Another way into the city |
41 Via Giosuè Carducci Milan, Milan 20123 |
This was built in 1939 by Gino Chierici, in imitation of a defensive gate in the ancient walls dating to 1171. The original materials were re-used in the two towers of different heights. The tabernacle with saints Ambrogio, Gervasio and Protasio were sculpted by craftsmen from Campione, coming from the hospital of Sant'Ambrogio founded by Galeazzo II Visconti, in the mid 15th century. Today the building houses the 'Museo della Pusterla', with a permanent exhibition of criminology and antique weapons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: beatafrancis |
 Photo: Stefano Belotti |
In honour of Mars |
1 Via del Municipio Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The district of Campo Marzio lies to the right of the Tiber around the street and square of the same name. Its name derives from the fact that the area under the Romans was used primarily for military purposes and because it was linked to an ancient cult of the god Mars. Today Campo Marzio is one of the most densely populated areas of Rome. There are numerous monuments and churches of historical and artistic value in the area: the Ara Pacis, Palazzo Ruspoli, Palazzo Borghese, Santa Maria del Popolo, San Rocco, San Girolamo degli Illirici and many squares that make the area one of the most attractive in Rome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Piroddi |
Famous Roman Forum |
Via Romolo Artioli Rome, Rome 00186 |
The Forum was designed to be the centre of social, political and economic life in the city. The innumerable remains include the well-conserved triumphal arch of Emperor Septimius Severus, with reliefs depicting his victories and the base of the Temple of Saturn with its eight columns and their splendid Ionic capitals. The 'Rostrum' is the famous platform from which Mark Antony gave his oration in Shakespeare's play after Julius Caesar's assassination. The platform became the setting for many important events in Rome's history. It was named the 'rostrum' after the bows of the ships that form the decorative motif. The Temple of Vesta was the home of the Vestal Virgins, charged with keeping the sacred flame alight. The circular foundations still remain, near to a garden in which traces of the House of the Vestal Virgins can still be seen. The Basilica of Constantine and Massentius was used as the court, and the three remaining barrel-vaulted naves give an idea of its gigantic structure. The Arch of Titus celebrates victories in Judea, and in the reliefs you can see the spoils of war, including an altar and a seven-armed chandelier. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: chrisanderin lewis |
 Photo: Gemma Early |
 Photo: K2D2vaca |
 Photo: heather |
 Photo: Heather Rotay |
 Photo: loken324 |
 Photo: JP Cannon |
 Photo: Chris_L777 |
 Photo: Michael Malouf |
 Photo: miriam Lipton |
 Photo: David Coyle |
 Photo: Angie Newsome |
 Photo: Amy Reid Jeanneret |
 Photo: fly281 |
 Photo: Don Pezzano |
 Photo: Andre |
 Photo: George Terry |
 Photo: Tamara Lakeman |
Roman Amphitheatre. |
Via del Teatro Romano Trieste 34121 |
This beautiful Roman amphitheatre was built between the I and II centuries AD by Quinto Petronio Modesto. He was the governor of Trieste under the emperor Trajan. It was uncovered between 1937 and 1939 during building works in that district of the city (in fact it was covered with modern and medieval housing). The theatre is located between the Capitoline hill and Piazza dell'Unita'. It's right in front of the police headquarters. It is worth taking a look even if it has been rather badly looked after. At one time it could seat some six thousand spectators in the seats which are built into the hill leading to San Giusto. The semicircle would have been adorned with statues at that time, these are now in the care of the city's history and art museum. It is thought that when it was built it faced toward the sea and was just outside the city walls. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kees van Leijenhorst |
 Photo: Anita Molnár |
The house of the famous composer |
Strada Maggiore 26 Bologna 40125 |
The famous composer Gioacchino Rossini studied literature and music in Bologna and was trained by his father in singing, solfeggio and the harpsichord. Rossini soon showed his musical talent and, once he had found success and fame, left Bologna to travel in Italy and Europe. He returned to Bologna where he had a house built (1824-27) at number 26, Strada Maggiore where he lived for about 20 years, this time was unfulfilling for Rossini artistically speaking and was also a very difficult period of his life. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Benedetta Saglietti |
 Photo: Benedetta Saglietti |
Peculiar enclosure and church |
12 Via Besana Milan, Milan 20122 +39 2 545 5047 |
This was founded in the early 19th century as a cemetery for the hospital named "Ospedale Maggiore" or "Ca' Granda". The unusual building consists of a perimeter wall with, at the centre, a church, now no longer used for religious functions, dedicated to Saint Michael, with plan in the form of a Greek cross. In 1725 another wall was built, creating a plan including large lobate structures. In 1870 a smallpox epidemic broke out and 5,000 people with the disease were isolated here. In 1940, it became a wash-house for the hospital. Today it is an open-air garden, a play area for children, while in summer it is used for open-air cinema projections: the ex-church is used for temporary shows and congresses. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessandro Palmacci |
 Photo: Laura |
A Grand Place in Turin |
Piazza San Carlo Turin 10121 |
Piazza San Carlo, which splits Via Roma in two, is definitely one of the grandest and most stunning places in Turin. It was built during the middle of the 17th century and designed by the architect Di Castellamonte. Its two longest sides are surrounded by splendid porched buildings, while its most distinguishing features are the twin churches of Santa Cristina (on the left) and San Carlo, (on the right).In the centre stands the equestrian statue dedicated to the duke Edmondo Filiberto. He is depicted brandishing his sword after the battle of Saint Quentin, symbolising the end of the wars and the beginning of the reconstruction. Another interesting feature is a cannon ball embedded in the wall of one of the buildings: it is visible but difficult to identify. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rafael Marques |
 Photo: Marco F. Pippione |
 Photo: elleti2001 |
 Photo: alex71dd |
 Photo: Tonior83 |
 Photo: cloddo |
 Photo: Kikka Silva |
 Photo: Marco Fantino |
 Photo: Pietro Monteleone |
 Photo: fbflickr |
 Photo: Jean Blomo |
Baroque spire |
Piazza San Domenico Maggiore Naples 80134 |
At the centre of Piazza San Domenica stands the splendid St Dominic spire, constructed before that of the Immaculate Conception which can be found on the Piazza del Gesù Nuovo. It was constructed after the terrible plague epidemic of 1656. Designed by Francesco Antonio Picchiatti and later finished in 1737 by Antonio Domenico Vaccaro. It was funded by the Dominicans, with contributions from the citizens. The Baroque monument is adorned with medallions of male and female saints of the Dominican Order. At the very top stands a bronze statue of St Dominic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Arnab Ghoshal |
 Photo: François De Heel |
 Photo: cantoliberox |
Luxury shopping |
30 Galleria San Federico Turin, Turin 10121 +39 (0)11 54 1455 http://www.sanfederico.it/ info@sanfederico.it |
The Galleria San Federico is without question one of the most elegant places in the city. Heavily imitative of Baroque architecture, its three arms were built on the site of the earlier Galleria Natta that was demolished to make way for roads. The windows of well-known shops attract the passers-by, particularly those related to fashion and luxury items: there are Versace, the cashmere articles of Giorgio Monteverdi paintings in Linearia and copies of valuable items of jewellery in De Wan Bijoux. The cinema Lux stands in the centre of the gallery with a marvellous Art Deco entrance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: my stification |
 Photo: Diego |
 Photo: *blulu* |
City gate of Naples |
Via Foria Naples 80137 |
If you start from the National Museum and follow the Via Foria you will find the Porta San Gennaro immediately on the right after Piazza Cavour. It was rebuilt in the middle of the 15th century following the city wall's relocation. In the large niche there is a fresco by Mattia Preti which has been recently restored. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Angelo |
The angels of the Passion |
Ponte Sant'Angelo Rome, Rome 00193 |
Ponte Sant'Angelo is one of Rome's loveliest and best-known bridges. It is immediately recognisable from the statues of angels and the magnificent view of Hadrian's Mausoleum (more commonly known as Castel Sant'Angelo). The bridge is one of the oldest having been built at the start of the 2nd century on Hadrian's orders to be the main access to his mausoleum; however, it has since been restored and added to. For example, the statues were added during the baroque era by Bernini though sculpted by his pupils. The angels hold the symbols of the Passion; for instance, there is one with a cross, another with a shaft, another with nails and a whip. Note the angel bearing the cartouche and another with the crown of thorns, as they are more modern copies - the original ones by Bernini were transferred to S. Andrea delle Fratte. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francisco Cabrera |
 Photo: David Reece |
 Photo: Sarah Washford |
 Photo: Konstantin Simonov |
 Photo: Mauro Mennuni |
 Photo: D3O |
 Photo: Walter Hoffmann |
 Photo: Neil Chionchio |
 Photo: NTNL |
 Photo: FotoPassion |
 Photo: Jonathan Hills |
 Photo: Aigle_Dore_83 |
 Photo: Mauro Mennuni |
 Photo: Leonardo |
 Photo: ANTONIO OLIVA |
 Photo: styrene_poly |
 Photo: Felicia Mok |
 Photo: shoes_on_wires |
Surrounded by beautiful residences |
Piazza Santo Stefano Bologna 40125 |
Piazza Santo Stefano is a charming cobbled piazza, one of the most magical historical places in the city. It is surrounded by beautiful old noble family palazzos and seems to be an entity in itself. Stories abound about the origins of the Santo Stefano complex but it seems probable that it was first a Roman temple which was dedicated to the worship of Isis. It is also said that St.Ambrose buried here the remains of the protomartyrs, Vitale and Agricola. It was conquered by the Lombards and visited by Charlemagne. Leopardi and Giorgio Morandi used to love coming here as part of their afternoon walks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tny Pillow |
 Photo: maria |
 Photo: Susan Venturi |
 Photo: federicadelogu |
 Photo: CRISTINA TOSI |
 Photo: Susanna Fratarcangeli |
 Photo: Alessandro Bonvini |
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 Photo: errorendogeno |
 Photo: Pietro Passarelli |
 Photo: flaviano_ieronimo |
 Photo: irenecochi |
 Photo: Alex |
 Photo: cinzia agrizzi |
 Photo: Susan Venturi |
Impressive city gate |
Porta Saragozza Bologna 40123 |
The impressive Porta Saragozza was built in 1860 upon the remains of its medieval precursor. It was designed by Enrico Brunetti Rodati. The gate is made up of two large towers topped with battlements. Between the two towers there are three arcades. One of the two tower contains the "Cassero". This is home to Bologna's gay association. The Cassero has a beautiful terrace which is open throughout the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessandro Minciotti |
Characterised by the obelisk |
Piazza Savoia Turin 10122 |
The square, more commonly called "Piazzetta Savoia," is the joining point between the old city and the 18th c. western expansion planned by Filippo Juvarra but designed by Michelangelo Garove. In the centre of the square stands the obelisk that commemorates the Siccardi law of 1850; it bears the inscription "The law is equal for everyone." Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: andrea camaschella |
 Photo: andrea camaschella |
Castle bridge |
Corso Castelvecchio, 2 Verona 37121 |
This is probably one of the most photgraphed bridges in Verona, but unfortunately it is not authentic. The original one was blown up by the Germans during the last World War, and it was reconstructed in the 1950s. It consists of a strong brick structure with three arches of decreasing width, resting on crennellated towers. The date of construction is unclear, but it was probably built between 1375 and 1376. The bridge formed part of the complicated defence structure for the Castelvecchio, and linked the city with the road leading to the Tyrol. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mr.MR.82 |
 Photo: Adrian Day |
 Photo: gianna elena |
The heart of the city |
Piazza dei Signori Verona 37121 |
The very noble Piazza dei Signori is the heart of Verona. Its perimeter is surrounded by historical buildings which accentuate the important role the place has played in the city's politico-administrative spheres. On the piazza we find the Palazzo del Comune, the Palazzo della Prefettura, the Palazzo del Capitanio, the Loggia del Consiglio and the Domus Nova. The buildings are joined with elegant arches, mostly dating from the 14th century. There are wide ranges of styles, which are nevertheless characterized by great harmony. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Saira Bhatti |
 Photo: ALVIERO41 |
 Photo: Danny Gonzalez |
 Photo: Mariana Doria |
 Photo: Filipe Ribeiro |
 Photo: Levente Toth |
A strange design by Antonelli |
9 Via Giulia di Barolo Turin 10124 |
After visiting this building, nicknamed the "Slice of Polenta", you will think of Alessandro Antonelli, the architect and creator of the Mole, as having been particularly ambitious and very creative. The building takes its name most of all from its colour that resembles that of polenta, but is called a "slice" for another reason: if you walk up Via Giulia di Barolo, the building slowly seems to shrink until it almost becomes invisible. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: manu i petr |
 Photo: manu i petr |
 Photo: tommaso seinera |
 Photo: Cecilia Brianza |
 Photo: Adam C. Pedersen |
Lengthened shape |
Piazza Solferino Turin 10123 |
The end of tree lined Via Pietro Micca opens onto Piazza Solferino. On the right is the Alfieri theatre from which only the original façade of 1857 remains while the interior is modern. At the centre of the square is the 'Angelica' fountain, whose real name is the four seasons fountain. This fountain, which has 70 streams of water can be read in masonic terms: the day of the solstice the sun shines on the face of a child who represents Jesus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sonia Zoppi |
 Photo: MARTI&ALINO |
 Photo: Franco Vercelli |
 Photo: Powmah |
Rome's most popular meeting place |
Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti Piazza di Spagna Rome, Rome 00187 |
The Spanish Steps were designed by Alessandro Specchi and Francesco de Sanctis. They connect Piazza di Spagna to the French church of Trinità dei Monti. In spring the steps are decorated with hundreds of coloured azaleas. Being a beautiful, central and traffic-prohibited spot, the steps are a permanent meeting place for the young and for tourists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jose Luis Montenegro |
 Photo: Mat Hayward |
 Photo: fallenangel82 |
 Photo: Tahlia Mcbride |
 Photo: Sharon Thai |
 Photo: Bryan P. Fauci, Esq. |
 Photo: Hans Põldoja |
 Photo: ewewlo |
 Photo: Justin Bowen |
 Photo: Stuart Smyth |
 Photo: Alan B |
 Photo: Henric Bjärehäll |
 Photo: fijayc |
 Photo: RV Baylon |
 Photo: Katie Wright |
Spiral staircase |
Campo Manin Venice 30124 |
The spiral staircase (Bovolo in Venetian dialect) is the most interesting thing about this palace. To get there, follow the yellow arrows from Manin square, down the Calle della Mandola. En route, you will experience the peculiarities of Venetian dimensions at first hand: the streets which lead there are so narrow, two people cannot go down them side by side. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Palinkas Tamara |
 Photo: Martin Leppert |
 Photo: Joy Brunetti |
 Photo: mantruc |
 Photo: Andrea Celentano |
 Photo: paolo.demarchi |
 Photo: Esteve Amat |
 Photo: Caterina Bonetti |
 Photo: *fab* |
 Photo: Paul Gould |
 Photo: Raffaella Bolla |
 Photo: Pietro Scialpi |
 Photo: Peter Head |
 Photo: jisaboke |
 Photo: Ryan Steckler |
 Photo: Linda Lukasiewicz |
 Photo: Aliceson |
The piazza and the lion |
Piazza delle Erbe Verona 37121 |
North of the Piazza delle Erbe, in front of the Maffei Palace, stands St Mark's Column, which was erected in 1523. It was sculpted in Veronese white marble, from a design by Michele Leoni. The lion at the top of the column is not the original. This was knocked down in 1797, when the Venetian Republic ceased to exist. This was a result of the Treaty of Campoformio in which Napoleon ceded Venice in exchange for the Duchy of Milan. The current lion was placed at the top of the column in 1866, the year of the Vienna Peace Treaty and of the plebiscites: the year which signalled the reunification of the Veneto to the rest of Italy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James P. Brogan |
World-Famous Piazza |
St. Mark's Square Venice 30124 |
Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark's Square, is Venice's most famous square. What appears to be a rectangle is actually a trapezium, and when you look up at the basilica, the piazza seems enormous, although it is only 175m long. On both sides of the piazza are the "Procuratie" buildings, which housed the procurators of San Marco. The oldest of these (probably built by Codussi) are on your left when you face the basilica; Longhena built the ones on the right later, in 1640. The most recent buildings, commissioned by Napoleon in 1810, lie behind. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: matttungyep |
 Photo: janetfo747 |
 Photo: Raaj Menon |
 Photo: Mandy Reid |
 Photo: Dave Rodgman |
 Photo: rodchase |
 Photo: Wei Kin |
 Photo: mikeandtinamc |
 Photo: Dan Putt |
 Photo: Andrew Tan |
 Photo: jonjth |
 Photo: SERKOART® |
 Photo: Justin Reese |
 Photo: Yin Yee Lai |
 Photo: Topher McCulloch |
 Photo: Jarno Kastarinen |
 Photo: yanosso |
The patron saint of Italy |
Piazza Pia Rome, Rome 00193 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The statue of St Catherine of Siena stands in a flowerbed in the gardens around Castel Sant'Angelo. It was designed in 1961 by Francesco Messina who also created the Dying Horse in front of the RAI television offices in Viale Mazzini. The saint was proclaimed one of the two patron saints of Italy by the Pope in 1939 along with St Francis of Assisi. The statue is made entirely from white marble and stands wrapped in a long cloak - St Catherine has a charitable and good-humoured look that matched her habit of helping the poor and sick. The monument includes 4 bas reliefs with scenes from her life. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francisco Fernández |
Two Squares in One |
Piazza Statuto Turin 10121 |
This square is found between the end of Via Garibaldi and the beginning of Corso Francia. When walking from Via Garibaldi, you arrive into an ordered square surrounded by 19th century buildings. The flower beds in the middle surround a commemorative monument to the tunnel of Frejus. Beyond the crossroads with Corso San Martino, the layout of the square is much more disordered, comprised of a tangle of traffic lights and routes, with much more modern surrounding buildings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Giancarlo Rapetti |
The tamer twins |
Foro Romano Rome, Rome |
The two enormous statues are Roman copies of Greek sculptures and date back to the 5th century BC. They represent Castor and Pollux, patrons of riders, and they were placed at the entrance of the Terme di Costantino. Pope Sixtus V had the statues restored in 1588 and moved to the piazza when Quirinale became a papal residence. The Obelisk was placed here two centuries later, having been transferred from the Mausoleo di Augusto. It was joined by a large trough in the 1800s from which horses and other beasts were watered. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ranjeet Dhaliwal |
 Photo: DanielHP |
 Photo: Amre Ghiba |
 Photo: Shoshana Lee Carel |
 Photo: Annas Sani |
 Photo: pjink11 |
 Photo: Jo McFetridge |
 Photo: Jeff Spring |
 Photo: Kate Agnew |
 Photo: darks2007 |
 Photo: Noam Freedman |
 Photo: bacity |
 Photo: Alyssa Young |
The station has a facelift |
Piazza dei Cinquecento Rome, Rome 00185 +39 6 4890 6300 / +39 6 4782 5194 http://www.romatermini.it info@grandistazioni.it |
After 14 months of work, the Termini railway station now looks like a functional modern building. It offers visitors a wide variety of bars, restaurants and over 100 shops. It was first built in 1867 upon the wish of Pope Pius IX, when it was baptised 'Termini' because of its proximity to the 'Terme di Diocleziano' (Diocletian's Baths). In 1938, during the Fascist period, it was demolished and rebuilt on the design of Mazzoni who also designed the buildings on the Via Marsala and the Via Giolitti. The station was not ready for Hitler's visit to Rome in 1939 so he was met at Ostiense station instead. The station is one of Italy's most interesting Rationalist designs since the war. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bekka Reese |
 Photo: Noel-esther |
 Photo: Vincenzo Corcione |
 Photo: Semopho |
 Photo: Gustavo Luis |
 Photo: bloggariddim |
 Photo: Barbara Jeroncic |
 Photo: Ron Neeleman |
 Photo: riccardo costantini |
 Photo: aayushd AT Google |
 Photo: Ryan-o |
 Photo: mdanyluk |
 Photo: Rebecca E. Rodriguez |
 Photo: night86mare |
 Photo: Hikari Mimura |
Let Giordano Bruno take my place |
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II Boulevard Piazza della Chiesa Nuova Rome, Rome 00186 |
The Terrina fountain was designed by Giacomo Della Porta toward the end of the 16th century and was originally placed in the centre of Piazza Campo dei Fiori. But in 1889 it was dismantled to make way for the monument to Giordano Bruno who was burned alive in the square. It long remained in the council's stores and was rebuilt as recently as 1924 in the Piazza della Chiesa Nuova in front of the church. Like the original fountain, it was built below the level of the road (like the famous 'Barcaccia' in the Piazza di Spagna) as the water pressure was so low. In remembrance of its original location in Piazza dei Fiori, another fountain was erected on the west side of the square. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
Closed door for the Etruscans |
Lungotevere Testaccio Rome, Rome 00153 |
Originally this district was not all that prestigious, as it was a rubbish dump for amphorae that were shattered into fragments called 'Testae'. Testaccio still has a provincial atmosphere, and one feels that everybody knows each other. When walking over Sublicio bridge, you should remember that its predecessor, made of wooden boards, was built by order of Ancus Marcius, and it was the bridge on which Horatius Cocles fought the Etruscans. Everybody here is fond of Piazza Testaccio, used as a fruit and vegetable market and full of colour and life. The shops surrounding the square are still called by the names of the original owners, even though they may have passed on many years ago, and all this makes this market one of the most enjoyable in Rome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: il direttore |
 Photo: Enrica Corvino |
 Photo: Calicanthus |
 Photo: giuseppe.dip50 |
 Photo: Aurelia Salvatori |
 Photo: Marco M. Lupoi |
 Photo: mikael_on_flickr |
 Photo: Patrizia Di Muzio |
 Photo: Gianni Sarti |
 Photo: Luca Ramacciotti |
 Photo: miss vichan |
 Photo: fidifra |
 Photo: Sergio Russo |
 Photo: Alexandra Landeros |
Asinelli and Garisneda, the familiar Bolognese towers |
Piazza di Porta Ravegnana Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40125 |
A symbol of the Emilian county town, the two towers dominate the Bolognese skyline unchallenged. They date from the twelfth century and were almost certainly built as much to symbolise the power of the the noble families as to act as a military defence. This was a period of great wealth for Bologna, and there was hardly a noble household which did not build its own family tower. The Asinelli tower, which has remained untouched by the centuries, was the highest of all and is distinguishable by its slight incline, while the Garisenda is about half the height of the Asinelli, with a very distinct lean. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roosh Valizadeh |
 Photo: Anette Schwartz Larsen |
 Photo: Markus Hill |
 Photo: Matylda Czarnecka |
 Photo: Jesso Hackberry |
 Photo: pantsu pankuro |
 Photo: Stuart Jones |
 Photo: caancawi |
 Photo: Salvatore Zuccarello |
 Photo: Tore Urnes |
 Photo: Pablo S. Corey |
 Photo: Shankara Narayanan |
 Photo: Noam Freedman |
 Photo: Mazey Milligan |
A convent in a theatre |
Rigaste Redentore, 2 Verona 37121 +39 45 800 0360 |
The archeological site of the Roman theatre is reached through a sixteenth century buidling with a frescoed freize. Nestling at the base of St. Peter's hill, the theatre was probably built at the end of the first period of Roman urbanisation, that is, at the end of the first century A.D, meaning that the project was carried out at the same time as the city's urban development. This affermation is confirmed by its perfect alignment with the network of streets, to which is is a focal element. In the centuries that followed, the site was abandoned, and suffered both flood and earthquake damage, so that by the Renaissance it has already been reduced to ruins and a church and convent were actually built on the site. Archeological excavations began in around 1757, thaks to the Abbot Fontana, and they continued into the 19th century, bringing a large part of the original structure back to light. Other excavations were carried out in the twentieth century, so that after the war the theatre was used to host spectacles and events of a high artistic standard, usually in conjunction with the summer season at the Arena. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: marco beni |
 Photo: Gi_USA |
 Photo: Song Hong |
 Photo: Edward Hollingsworth |
Cemetry for the nobility |
Via delle Arche Scaligere, 1 Verona 37121 |
The 'Arche Scaligere' cemetery is only visible through the fencing which encloses it. It is one of Verona's most fascinating monuments and a masterpiece of Veronese Gothic architecture. It consists of the monumental tombs of the Veronese nobility, and is closed off in an area which is adjacent to the church of Santa Maria Antica. Several of the tombs stand out on account of their imposing structures and rich decoration. Amongst these are the tombs of Cangrande I, Mastino II, Cansignorio and Alberto I. Others do not even bear the names of those who are interred within them, however, they are known to contain the remains of the likes of Bartolomeo, Alboino, Cangrande II, Mastino I and Giovanni della Scala, nephew of Bartolomeo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alfredo Scifo |
 Photo: Tony D70S |
 Photo: Annutcha |
 Photo: susannah78 |
 Photo: Erica Giambitto, Pes |
A way to bring yourself luck |
Piazza San Carlo Turin 10121 |
Although the reasons why are obscure, the city has always been symbolised by a bull, but whatever the origin of the association, it must have had a positive value. This is the case with the bull in Piazza San Carlo. It is said that to tread on its horns, or even better its genitals, will bring great fortune. The only thing is that it must be done accidentally. And for this reason, you will not be told in what part of the square the bull is to be found, hoping that you will tread on him by accident! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mauro Marzo |
Symbol of the city |
Piazza delle Erbe Verona 37121 |
The fountain of Madonna Verona, which was repaired in 1368, is one of the oldest and best known fountains in the city. It is constructed in the form of a female figure, dating back to Roman times. In her hands, the statue holds a scroll bearing the emblem of the city of Verona. She is resting on a base (also of Roman origin), on which are sculpted eight masks from which the water flows. On one of these the epigraph '[Mar]morea Verona' (Verona Marble), testifies to the promise made by the Scaligieri to transform Verona's buildings. The monument was erected at the wishes of Casignorio della Scala, to celebrate the repair of the city's aqueduct. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Addicted to tea |
 Photo: Mike Lowcock |
 Photo: Stacey Sutton |
 Photo: Helen Teng-Bouquet |
 Photo: didjtijn |
 Photo: Sarah Hoysted |
 Photo: Paul Murray |
 Photo: Will Raleigh |
Entertaining the public |
Via del Teatro di Marcello Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 678 4380 |
The origins of this theatre run back to 23 BC, when Augustus had it built in honour of Marcus Claudius Marcellus, his nephew and adopted son. The theatre had space for 20,000 people, and was used for games and celebrations. The construction fell into ruin during the following centuries due to plunder and fire: in fact it became a sort of quarry from which materials were taken for the construction of buildings, churches and so forth. Restoration began in about 1300 when the Savelli family bought the ruins. The same family performed further work two centuries later, and this was continued by the Orsini who acquired the complex in order to enlarge their own building: they restored part of the theatre. Today, concerts are organised here, and this is the only way of seeing it from the inside. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Thomas Kelley |
 Photo: Sara MacKenzie |
 Photo: Larry Halff |
 Photo: Dan Waugh |
 Photo: Paul Richens |
 Photo: Jeremy Eyre |
 Photo: Karl Holland |
 Photo: jch96 |
 Photo: DrcOnline |
An island no longer |
Lungotevere dei Cenci Rome, Rome 00186 +39 (0)6 48 8991 (Tourism Information) |
Tiberina Island is linked to the banks of the river by two bridges, the Fabricio and Cestio. Today, in order to protect Tiberina from the current, the 'bows' have been extended right up to one of the pillars of the Garibaldi bridge. Some ancient buildings can still be seen, like the Caetani tower dating to the Middle Ages, and the church of San Bartolomeo that was built on the site of the temple of Esculapius. Unfortunately nothing is left of the 10th century church as it was almost entirely rebuilt in the 17th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: psykmedia |
 Photo: Kiran Kalsi |
 Photo: Z.R.L. |
 Photo: Angela Malizia |
 Photo: Anna Malyszkiewicz |
 Photo: Pier Antonio Zanini |
 Photo: Edda Manfredi |
 Photo: DeeP_NoiR |
 Photo: Gabr1 |
 Photo: A.Vaiano |
 Photo: Marea |
 Photo: gdico72 |
 Photo: Pettirosso Da Combat |
 Photo: elisewin_1978 |
 Photo: ilfabbricantedisogni |
Quality travel service provider |
18 Via Camerelle Naples 80073 +39 81 530 3400 http://www.TiberioTour.it luiginappo@tiberiotour.it |
Tiberio Viaggi Capri is a travel service provider that offers online booking, a live chat room to answer any questions you may have, as well as an image Bank with more than 500 print quality images. They also offer several quality tours at competitive rates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: macayetana |
 Photo: macayetana |
Triumphal Neo-Classical gateway |
Piazzale 24 Maggio Milan, Milan 20123 |
On the original Roman road that led to Pavia from Milan, what you see of Porta Ticinese today is only a part of the Neo-Classical design that was submitted by Luigi Cagnola. His ideas included bastions - since dismantled - and the square in the direction of the village of San Gottardo between vast buildings that were to house the local market and receiving office. These buildings were to lie on either side of the gateway and symmetrical to the road, thereby redefining the entire area. The project was begun in 1801 to celebrate the victory of Napoleon at the battle of Marengo in 1800 and the arrival of the French troops from that direction, but construction was halted in 1814 after only the gate and the two toll-gates at the sides had been finished. The building is made from pink granite from Baveno (today blackened by smog and grime) in Vitruvian Doric style. The massive pillars and columns crowned by the large tympanum is one of the most representative Milanese works of Neo-Classical architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gabriele Scotti |
Beautiful gateway to the city |
Corso di Porta Ticinese Milan, Milan 20123 |
The ancient Porta Ticinese gate, part of the 12th-century city walls built after the destruction wrought by Frederick Barbarossa, is the only remaining gate along with the arches of Porta Nuova. The present state of the gate reflects the work of Camillo Boito (1861-65) who isolated the surviving structures and completed the missing parts with his own interpretation. Feature of interest: Starting from the ancient gate and moving out of the city, one finds Corso di Porta Ticinese, originally a fortified wall, part of the extension of the city fortifications commissioned by Azzone Visconti in the 14th century. The original character of this district, one destined to craftsmen's workshops, can still be seen in the buildings, featuring a narrow, tall street front and an extensive series of inner courtyards and service buildings further back. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Claudia Stucki |
 Photo: Federica Bruno |
Remembrance of a noble lady |
Via Appia Antica Rome, Rome 00178 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Cecilia, daughter of Metelllus, valiant conqueror of Crete and wife of Crassus, Caesar's general in Gaul, was buried on the Appia Antica. A tombstone has been placed here in memory of this noblewoman who died at a young age. The tomb was built circa 50BC and was a large cylindrical body resting on a square base built entirely from travertine stone. Passing under an archway one entered the tomb itself. The original battlements were covered by a fortress built in 1300 by the Caetani, which encased the sepulchre inside a castle (the remains of which can still be seen) The tomb became the castle's keep which comprises the church of S. Nicola (a rare example of Roman Gothic style) Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Julio Costa Zambelli |
 Photo: Renato Mattar |
 Photo: Joo Eliezer |
 Photo: Emiliano Pecis |
 Photo: Amiano Marcelino |
 Photo: Flavio Costa |
 Photo: jordi cañas |
Beautiful panoramic view |
Piazza dei Signori, 2 Verona 37121 +39 45 803 2726 |
From the Torre dei Lamberti (84m high), you can enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views in Verona. You enter it through the courtyard of the Mercato Vecchio. You can either take a lift or climb up on foot (for which your ticket costs a little less). Work commenced on the tower (which is made from tufa and brick) in 1172; it was built in stages, and finally completed between 1448 and 1464 with the addition of an octagonal bell-tower at the top of a window with three lights. The two prinicpal bells were fitted in 1295, and have retained their historical names: 'rengo' (to call the Council and the people to a meeting) and 'marangona' (to warn people in the event of a fire). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nicolas Hoibian |
 Photo: sharpshootr |
 Photo: Matteo Parolini |
 Photo: Franklin van de Meent |
 Photo: Nika B. Hasegawa |
A unique history book |
Vicolo di San Bernardo Rome, Rome 00187 |
Trajan's Column stands between two seemingly twin churches - Santa Maria di Loreto and SS. Nome di Maria. It's 40 metres high overlooking the remaining columns of the ancient Ulpia basilica in Trajan's Forum. It is thought that the column was originally erected between two large libraries that were, with the terrace of Trajan's Temple and the terrace of the Ulpia basilica, places where Romans could admire the historical reliefs on the column. The column has resisted degradation superbly over the years - the spiral frieze illustrates the most important episodes in Trajan's successful expedition against the Dacians as well as showing the everyday lives of soldiers. On the top of the column (reached via a stairway inside) there is a bronze statue of St Peter sculpted by Tommaso della Porta which, it is thought, must have replaced one of the emperor himself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Iwona Osmolska |
 Photo: Georgeta Moarcas |
 Photo: Rebecca Lee |
 Photo: lehiyotani |
 Photo: Denise Scavitto |
 Photo: conrad_buff3 |
 Photo: PRDH |
 Photo: Richard Haskell |
 Photo: Michal Meduna |
 Photo: Jan Krömer |
 Photo: Simon Inglis |
 Photo: Jason DeCamp |
 Photo: David Lownds |
 Photo: Ismael Alonso |
 Photo: Leslie D. Waters |
 Photo: Meredith Leigh |
 Photo: Piero Castellano |
Throw a coin in the fountain... |
Piazza di Trevi Rome 00187 |
Tradition has it that throwing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain guarantees a swift return to the world's most beautiful city. Anita Ekberg's dip in it was immortalized in Fellini's 'La Dolce Vita', and Italian actor Toto even sold it to an American, passing himself off as its owner. Earlier it was the setting for the award-winning "Three Coins in the Fountain" motion picture, ensuring its popularity worldwide. Designed by Nicola Salvi for Pope Clemente XII, it was completed in the second half of the 1700s. The statues in the centre represent Neptune supported by Tritons on either side while rococo-style Poli Palace provides the perfect backdrop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris F. Nicholson |
 Photo: sara perry |
 Photo: Dan Frost |
 Photo: BoforsGun |
 Photo: Marc Smith |
 Photo: gumptard |
 Photo: HaiThinh-Vietnam |
 Photo: manlio2810 |
 Photo: Heather Garland |
 Photo: Mini OzzY |
 Photo: Kristiina DiOrio |
 Photo: Jenny |
 Photo: Danielle Holmes |
 Photo: Asier Villafranca |
 Photo: Steve Haigh |
 Photo: Kurt Paris |
 Photo: Andrioli Darvin |
The city's second gallery |
Via San Carlo Naples 80132 |
Galleria Umberto I is the second gallery in Naples and the busiest. It was built during urban renewal following a cholera epidemic and the "legge speciale" of 1885. The project was done by engineer Emanuele Rocco, and then modified by Ernest Di Mauro and Antonio Curri. In 1890, the Salone Margherita (destined to become the famous singing café) and the Galleria were inaugurated. The architecture joins the new Renaissance façade with beautiful glass and iron roofing. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: diego de miranda |
 Photo: Juan Antonio Flores Segal |
 Photo: Diego Marando |
 Photo: Konrad Konradsson |
 Photo: Ivano Coviello |
 Photo: Glen Monks |
 Photo: Silvia Maggi |
 Photo: luca |
 Photo: Laszlo Tokaji |
 Photo: Emre Erpul |
 Photo: Mr. Zenith |
 Photo: Leticia Corbacho |
 Photo: Paolino Censi |
 Photo: jan de vries |
 Photo: Alessio Degrandi |
 Photo: Marzia |
 Photo: ANTONIO OLIVA |
A river in the centre of the city |
Via Piella Bologna 40126 |
At the beginning of via Piella, on the right, set into what appears to be a great solid wall there is a little window through which you can see something really unusual...a river running beneath Bologna. On this road the waters emerge briefly in the Canale delle Moline, named after the 18th century mills which stood here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anna Maria Padula |
University library established by Pope Benedetto XIV |
Via Zamboni 35 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40126 +39 51 24 3420 |
Desired by Pope Benedetto XIV, the magnificent University library was built in 1741, having been designed by Carlo Francesco Dotti. It became part of the Science Institute and contained the collections of Pope Benedetto XIV, the naturalist researcher Ulisse Aldrovandi, Cardinal Monti and others. Today it contains over 900,000 volimes, almost 3000 letters and autographs and thousands of manuscripts such as the Paolo Diacono from the 12th century, an Avicenza in Hebrew from the 15th century etc, among the many illustrated works. The inside has been decorated with frescos by many of Bologna's famous artists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Patrick Riechel |
 Photo: beccab3184 |
 Photo: David F. Flanders |
The Vatican obelisk |
Piazza San Pietro Rome, Rome 00193 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
In the centre of St Peter's square, the Vatican obelisk stands between 2 enormous fountains and four cast-iron lamp posts. It stands on four bronze lions and was placed in the square by Domenico Fontana for Pope Sixtus V. It was brought to Rome from Alexandria in Egypt in 37 AD by Caligula who used it to decorate Nero's circus. Many legends arose around the enormous monolith. It is said that while it was being raised, in total silence, a certain Bresca (who realised the cords were breaking) prevented it falling by shouting the famous phrase, "Water on the cords". Even more famous is the story that the tip of the obelisk held the ashes of the cremated Julius Caesar in the bronze globe that is now to be seen in the Capitoline museums. Now the tip of the obelisk is crowned, 41 metres up, by a relic of the Holy Cross. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luca Ravaglia |
 Photo: Dominic M. Ottaviano |
 Photo: palindrome6996 |
 Photo: Chelsea |
 Photo: Nate Bridi |
 Photo: Léa Schneider |
 Photo: Patrick A. Rodgers |
 Photo: Jason Gorski |
 Photo: Dan Hovind |
 Photo: bogs714 |
 Photo: Wes Baker |
 Photo: Julia Balestrieri |
 Photo: Mr G's Travels |
 Photo: yanosso |
 Photo: Tomas Hermoso |
 Photo: desi.italy |
The much-debated and famous skyscraper |
5 Piazza Velasca Milan, Milan 20122 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
The most famous and discussed skyscraper in the centre of Milan was designed by the BBPR studio (Banfi, Belgiojoso, Peressutti, Rogers): it was begun in 1950 and completed 8 years later. At 106 metres high, it was the symbol of Milanese architecture after WW2. From an initial parallelepiped design, the need to distribute the volumes meant the building was built like a mushroom resting on brackets made from reinforced concrete. The formal allusions to the Castello Sforzesco, structural emphasis on the ribbing and uprights, use and grain of the materials, and the careful design of the details make the building one of the most interesting modern constructions in the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sergent Marceau L. |
 Photo: Fabrizio Comolli |
 Photo: Guido Ciampi |
 Photo: ms zuuz |
 Photo: mayastar |
 Photo: www.crete-homes.com |
 Photo: Paolo Bargna |
 Photo: Michele Borioli |
 Photo: Luca Annoni |
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 Photo: Alessandro |
 Photo: Justin W. Cook |
 Photo: Alex Cevenini |
 Photo: Bardi |
 Photo: orticanoodles |
 Photo: Alfredo Passalacqua |
 Photo: stefano poli |
 Photo: alefubu |
 Photo: Massimo Poti |
Three different defensive structures |
Circonvallazione Oriani Verona 37122 |
The perimeters of the city walls bear traces of the Venetian defences, which, in their turn replaced those laid down by the Scaligere. The Venetian defences were reinforced with the construction of fifteenth-century castles: San Felice and San Pietro. However, after the fall of the Venetian Republic, when the city was divided in two, the French destroyed the castles and also the southern sections of the ramparts. During the Austrian rule, Verona was transformed into an entrenched battlefield, in accordance with the wishes of the Imperial General Franz von Scholl. The walls offer an insight into three different defensive systems: Medieval, sixteenth century and nineteeth century. They can be visited by car, or by bicycle (a distance of 10km), through the streets around the circumference. They can also be visited on foot, through the remains of the ramparts, which have been turned into public gardens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pat Sharp |
Period buildings |
Via Chiaia Naples 80121 |
This historic city street is definitely one of the most famous and characteristic in Naples because of the many period buildings which face onto it, and because of the presence of lots of shops. It is one of the most important shopping areas in the city. This is also where it is said that the Margherita pizza was invented. This is the place for you if you are looking to make some good purchases and want to take a walk through a typically Neapolitan area at the same time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessio Cuccaro |
 Photo: nennella |
 Photo: Marta Staccioli |
The longest pedestrian street in Europe |
Via Giuseppe Garibaldi Turin 10121 |
This street starts at the north-west side of Piazza Castello and ends in Piazza Statuto. Past Via Dora Grossa are the traces of the antique roman city. Along the road are buildings of historic interest alternated with churches and all kinds of shops. The street comes alive and is crowded mostly on Saturday afternoons, when, along with Via Roma, it is a favourite place with the Torinesi to take a stroll in their free time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jeremy owen |
 Photo: Alberto Ferrero |
 Photo: angelo |
 Photo: Angelo Miele |
 Photo: Roberto Cortese |
 Photo: laura |
 Photo: Marco Berri |
 Photo: eTip |
Antique dealers and nobility |
Via Giulia Rome, Rome 00186 |
Via Giulia was designed by Bramante on the orders of Pope Julius II. It is almost a kilometre long, and flanked by magnificent palaces and churches dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Check out Palazzo Falconieri, renovated by Borromini, who spent most of his time on the façade. Nowadays, this is a street known best for its refined antique shops, as well as being simply one of the most attractive streets in Rome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Garry Strutt |
 Photo: José Sánchez |
 Photo: Chiara Papaccio |
 Photo: Falcon2001 |
 Photo: icomei |
 Photo: oterny |
 Photo: Mari |
 Photo: fotoragtag |
 Photo: adamkaras |
 Photo: Mildredvox |
 Photo: Susanne Stix |
The Montmartre of Rome |
Via Margutta Rome, Rome 00187 |
Parallel to the elegant Via del Babuino runs the narrow but noteworthy Via Margutta. Here a great number of young artists, with great hopes and little money, made their names. The street is now peppered with little art galleries. The attics of the houses were and are still the studios of painters great and small. Among the characters who have lived in this street one remembers the painter Novella Parigini with her characteristic images of cats and cat-like women. The festival 100 Pittori in via Margutta (100 painters on via Margutta) takes place every year at the end of October and the beginning of November: it's a chance to admire original works of art and discover new talent. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kitty Graves |
 Photo: Pyhai |
 Photo: Laura&Amedeo |
 Photo: Thomas R. Ajello III |
 Photo: Carlos Rull |
 Photo: Maria Adele |
 Photo: simona de rubis |
 Photo: Max.yoghi |
 Photo: spikette |
 Photo: mr_lolloprimo |
 Photo: Sergitxu |
 Photo: _freesia |
 Photo: cioccapiatti |
 Photo: daniele |
 Photo: maurizio blasetti |
 Photo: Alberto Azzalini |
One of the noblest streets in Turin |
Via Po Turin 10124 |
This was the base of the city extensions during the 17th century, planned by Amedeo di Castellamonte, uniting Piazza Castello and Piazza Vittorio. Flanked by buildings on both sides, which are perfectly in proportion both in height and length, there is a rare uniformity in architectural style which leads towards the Po. Along the porticoes are a lively mix of colourful shops and bars which means that there is always something going on at all times of day and night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Arfi |
 Photo: horsemeatpie |
 Photo: Roald.com |
 Photo: Gur Yaari |
 Photo: Simona Soldera |
 Photo: viridian |
 Photo: nulla |
 Photo: Aghi |
The place to shop |
Via Roma Turin 10121 |
Via Roma starts at the southeast of Piazza Castello and ends up at Piazza Carlo Felice opposite the Porta Nuova station. It is divided midway by Piazza San Carlo, so that the traveler must walk through that plaza in order to complete a trip to the other end. Its present-day configuration is due to a renovation, which took place between 1931 and 1937. The side closest to Piazza Castello is reminiscent of the Baroque, whereas the second part is decisively Art Deco. By day it glitters with luxurious shops, which line the street, enhanced at night by neon lights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabrizio Salis |
 Photo: michiel mobach |
 Photo: HX75 |
 Photo: Antonio Mancinelli |
 Photo: Daniela Paternoster |
 Photo: Karin Argenti Simon |
 Photo: zeitblom |
 Photo: Luca Moriconi |
 Photo: Mario Poncino, Turin |
 Photo: Chiara Sulprizio |
 Photo: Sandeep Dembla |
 Photo: Enrico Gueli |
 Photo: Marco Cortella |
 Photo: garettojaksu |
 Photo: piscal |
 Photo: Glauco Rovere |
 Photo: deposito_di_ bagagli |
 Photo: andrea_ga |
 Photo: fabioditorino |
Privileges of the Pope |
Via Sistina Rome, Rome 00187 |
The road was built by Pope Sixtus V to unite Trinità dei Monti with the basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme. It is part of the ancient Strada Felice that continued with via delle Quattro Fontane. It was soon flanked by magnificent palazzi, particularly because the pope offered certain privileges to those who built in the area. Great artists like Piranesi, Thorwaldsen and Gogol lived here in the 17th century. Today, the street is home to the Teatro Sistina which offers a wide range of operas and musicals each season. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chandler_Bing |
 Photo: Cha già José |
 Photo: Katelyn Mudry |
 Photo: Tomasz Bartosz Bardadin |
