As long as 14 arches of the portico
Bologna 40126
Review © 2007, Wcities
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As long as 14 arches of the portico |
Via Zamboni 22 Bologna 40126 |
Built in the second half of the 15th century and renovated several times, the Gothic style Palazzo Malvezzi (known as the Ca' Granda) stretches for 14 arches of the portico. Inside, the building is decorated with important frescoes by Gandolfi and Pedrini. Pope Julius II was a guest here at the start of the 16th century when he was obliged to lengthen a stay here due to ill health. Currently the building is part of Bologna University and its corridors are filled by students and professors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: pannaphotos |
Probably designed by Baldassare Peruzzi |
Via Saragozza 26-28 Bologna 40123 |
The Palazzo Albergati was built in the 17th century and was probably designed by Baldassare Peruzzi, an architect and painter from Siena who did a lot of work in his native city and in Rome. Lazzaro Casario, Battista da Como, and Andrea da Formigine also worked on this building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter J. Bury  |
Home of the town council |
Via degli Alpini, 8 Verona 37121 +39 45 806 6485 |
Palazzo Barbieri has, since 1874 been the seat of the council offces, but was originally the 'Gran Guardia Nova' built for military purposes by Giuseppe Barbieri, between 1835 and 1848 on the site of the demolished Misericordia hospital. This large building in Avesa tuff, from a hamlet to the north of the city, is neoclassical in style with a Corinthian colonnade and a central body with a pronaos, also Corinthian in style which rises above a grand staircase. However, the circular body to the back was added immediately following damage to the building during the last war. Inside the building hang two large pictures illustrating Verona's story. The first is by Paolo Farinati representing the 'Victory over Barbarossa at Vacaldo in 1164' and the second is by Felice Brusasorci illustrating the 'Victory of the Veronese over Benacensi in 1849. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kantima jalayontaeja |
 Photo: Daniele Agostini |
Precious mosaics |
Torcello Venice 30100 +39 41 270 2464 |
This is the oldest cathedral of the lagoon, and evidence of the first settlement here. It was built in 639, but has undergone restoration and modification in the 9th, 11th and 14th centuries. The interior is enriched by splendid decorations, with particularly striking mosaics, which were probably made by mosaic makers from Ravenna. The bell tower, which was built in the 11th century, can only be visited by appointment. The view that can be enjoyed from the top is well worth the climb. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert Hutchison |
Panoramic view of the city |
Piazza San Marco Venice 30124 +39 41 522 4064 |
You get a splendid view from the tallest bell tower in Venice. It can be seen from the lagoon, and once you have reached the top, the whole lagoon can be seen from above. Even though the tower was erected at the beginning of the 20th century, it is an exact replica of the 15th-century bell tower. In 1609, Galileo Galilei exhibited his telescope here, and during the carnival, the bell tower used to serve as a stage for the tight rope-walkers who entertained the doge with their acrobatics. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephan Szyszlo |
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The residence of the Bentivoglio family |
Via delle Belle Arti 8 Bologna 40126 |
Palazzo Bentivoglio was probably built around 1550-60 by Trachini. The magnificent façade on Via Belle Arti with decorations in sandstone is today unfortunately suffering from wear but current restoration is trying to repair the damage. A lovely internal courtyard with double loggia was built during the 17th century and is still partly without decorations. Inside there are paintings by Bonetti and Gandolfi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessandro ventura |
The main entrance |
Corso Cavour, 19 Verona 37121 |
Palazzo Bevilacqua, headquarters of the state technical institute 'Ippolito Pindemonte'is one of the four buildings in Verona designed by Michele Sanmicheli. Probably erected around 1534, the palace was left in an unfinished state, as can be seen from the asymmetrical position of the portal in respect to the part of the façade that has been erected. The ground floor is carved in stone, subdivided by pillars bearing busts of Roman warriors and with windows set in low arches. The top floor on the other hand, has four windows alternating with three doors, all surrounded by a large balcony balanced with very ornate, Greek-style voluted ledges. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Giuseppe Bitetto |
Suburban residence |
202 Viale Sarca Milan, Milan 20126 |
This rural home has partly conserved the characteristics of a noble residence. The building, designed by an unknown architect, does not reflect a unitary design: it was extended throughout the course of time from the initial structure which dates from the early 15th century. Most of the work took place in the 16th century. There is an interesting display of paintings on the first floor, and the large loggia on the top floor is an unusual architectural solution. The building also underwent two separate restorations in 1910 and 1953. It now belongs to the Pirelli company who use it for meetings and private events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matteo Martini |
 Photo: Gabriele Goi |
 Photo: Bobbo G |
World-famous private house |
3933 Cannaregio Venice 30131 |
The Ca' d'Oro is one of the most beautiful private houses on the Canale Grande. It's not open to the public but you can take a gondola or vaporetto and view it from the water. The house has been beautifully and expertly restored. The Franchetti gallery contains some real masterpieces, including Tiziano's Venus, Carpaccio's Annunciation and Mantegna's Saint Sebastian. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: JuanCarlos |
 Photo: Charles R. Yang |
 Photo: Y. Jean Lee |
 Photo: Michele Paoli |
 Photo: Novella Regalini |
 Photo: ezioman |
 Photo: Sue Collins 02420 |
 Photo: Pedro Geada |
 Photo: Heidi Theunissen |
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Floral motifs abound |
11 Via Vincenzo Bellini Milan, Milan 20126 |
Designed and built between 1904 and 1906 by Alfredo Camapanini, this building is symptomatic of the architect's devotion to the Art Nouveau style. The building is characterized by the lively floral decoration, that reaches its peak in the portal above which two female figures emerge. The wrought iron-work was made by the famous company Mazzucotelli-Englemann. Feature of interest: The interiors of the hall and porter's office where the original decorations are preserved. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: tenebraEluce |
The first museum in the world |
1 Piazza del Campidoglio Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 6710 2475 http://www.museicapitolini.org... info.museicapitolini@comune.roma.it |
The Capitoline Museums are housed in two palaces that face each other. The one on the left of Michelangelo's steps is the New Palace, which houses one of Europe's most important collections of sculpture. It was designed by Michelangelo and became the world's first public museum in 1734 by order of Pope Clement XII. The other palace, the 'Conservatori,' houses important paintings such as Caravaggio's "St John the Baptist" and works by Titian, Veronese, Rubens and Tintoretto. A sculpture of an enormous foot that was once part of a statue of Emperor Constantine stands in the courtyard. One of the most famous pieces is unquestionably the "She-wolf", a bronze Etruscan sculpture from the 5th century BC to which the twins Romulus and Remus were added by Antonio del Pollaiolo during the Renaissance. General admission is EUR6.20, free to Italian children under 18 and seniors over 65. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Natasha Harden |
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 Photo: Patrick Fox |
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Napoleon stayed here |
Via 4 Novembre 24 Bologna 40123 |
Palazzo Caprara was built by Francesco Morandi. It contains a very imposing stairway dating back to 1705, and many of the rooms are decorated with frescoes. Napoleon stayed here during a visit to Bologna in 1805 and then he bought it - from then onwards it became the seat of Italy's viceroy. Today the palazzo houses the Prefecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paris Franz |
A baroque building |
4 Via Maria Vittoria Turin 10123 |
The Palazzo Carpano is situated opposite the Church of San Filippo. It is a beautiful example of Piedmontese baroque building, and was constructed by the architect Garove in 1686 and added to in the eighteenth century. At the beginning of the 1700's it was a meeting place for intellectuals from all parts of Italy. An interesting feature is the entrance atrium to the internal courtyard with its characteristic twisted pillars. It is only possible to make a visit if the owners are not present. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabrizio |
 Photo: Fabrizio |
A safe hideaway |
Viale Valadier Rome, Rome 00187 |
The Casina was originally a farmhouse, transformed by Valadier into a small neo-classical villa with terraces, loggias, columns and capitals for Cardinal Della Porta. The bust of astronomer Angelo Secchi stands in the small square in front of the house and, if you look carefully, you will see a small hole that indicates the point where the meridian passes through Rome. The Casina was originally built on an ancient Roman water tank whose pipes were used as a hiding place during the Sacking of Rome in 1527. Now it is a fashionable café-restaurant where artists and intellectuals meet. It is reached by going up the Viale D'Annunzio towards the Pincio, then taking the Via Belvedere, and finally the Via A. Mickievicz. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joanne Soo |
 Photo: Branislav Simo |
The fall of Tosca |
50 Lungotevere Castello Rome 00193 +39 6 328 691 http://www.castelsantangelo.com/ info@castelsantangelo.com |
The splendid fortress of Castel Sant'Angelo was originally built as a mausoleum for the Emperor Hadrian in 139 AD. In the 10th century AD it was transformed into a castle, then, 500 years later, into the elegant residence of Pope Alexander VI Borgia. Michelangelo designed the marvellous main court for Pope Leon X and many of the rooms inside are decorated with frescoes of great beauty. It's also been used to house prisoners, including the sculptor Benvenuto Cellini. The terrace offers a fine view of the river Tiber and opera lovers will know that this was where the final act of Puccini's opera "Tosca" took place. The building is now a museum with a fine collection of suits of armour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Henrique Tchung |
 Photo: nino gualdoni |
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 Photo: James Townsend |
 Photo: Chisato Kaizuka |
 Photo: Arturo Urrutia |
 Photo: Sarah Moon Park |
 Photo: Cristian Di Caccamo |
 Photo: Luigi Mele |
 Photo: Cédric Duménil |
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Former castle dating from the 14th century |
Castello Sforzesco Milan, Milan 20100 +39 2 8846 3700 http://www.milanocastello.it/i... claudio.salsi@comune.milano.it |
Built in 1368 by Gian Galeazzo Visconti to defend the city from attack, the castle was enlarged by military architect Magatti under the instruction of Visconti's successor Gian Galeazzo. Destroyed in 1447, it was rebuilt between 1450 and 1500 and enlarged under Francesco Sforza's rule. In 1500, once Sforza's rule was over, the building regained its military function and, after successive transformations, eventually fell into ruin. Rebuilt in the late 1900s, from 1893 onwards the castle gradually became home to various cultural institutions and art collections and remains so today. Guided tours are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael L. McDougall |
 Photo: Rebecca Harris |
 Photo: Valentin Ilea |
 Photo: Laura Volpi |
 Photo: Michele Marzocchi |
 Photo: Patrick A. Rodgers |
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Home of the government department responsible for the environment and historical buildings |
2 Piazza San Giovanni Turin 10123 |
Palazzo Chiablese, now head office of the government department responsible for the environment and historical buildings, is located along the left side of the Royal Piazzetta and is directly linked to the Royal Palace. It was built in the 17th century and renovated by Benedetto Alfieri in 1740 in the Torinese, baroque style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ani-sama |
For the City Council |
Piazza dei Signori, 5 Verona 37121 |
The Loggia del Consiglio was built between 1485 and 1492, to house the City Council. It was later restored between 1870 and 1874. It was the last building to be built in the Piazza dei Signori, with the obvious intention of celebrating the city's glorious past, present and future. For this reason, upon completion it was fitted with statues of the five greatest men of Verona during the Roman period: the poet Catullo, the writer Pliny (although he was actually from Como), Emilio Macro, the architect Vitruvio and the writer Cornelio Nepote. Over the door there is the inscription: 'Divine love in return for divine faith'. This was a gift to the city of Verona from Venice, as a reward for allowing itself to be tacked on to the Venetian Republic. Inside the building, various paintings with historical themes have been preserved. These were all commissioned by the City Council in 1596. Amongst these, is the 'Madonna with Saints Zeno and Peter -the patron saints of Verona and Veronese noblemen' by Bernardino India and Orlando Flacco. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Suzanne S |
 Photo: Eugene Goldin |
The palace |
Strada Maggiore 44 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40125 +39 51 23 6708 |
The beautiful Davia Bargellini palace, built between 1638-58, by the architect Bartolomeo Provaglia is characterised by the presence of two big statues called 'The Giants', sculpted in 1658 by Gabriello Brunelli and Francesco Agnesinion, which decorate the façade. The atrium, in the form of a colonnaded courtyard brings you to the staircase built in 1730 under the guidance of several architects: Torreggiani, Dotti and Conti. The staircase is richly decorated with stuccoes by Giuseppe Borelli. Inside the museum is the Davia Bargellini civic museum of industrial art. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Uomo in ammollo |
Carducci´s house. |
Piazza Giosuè Carducci 5 Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40125 +39 51 34 7592 |
Giosuè Carducci´s residence dominates the square of the same name. It is slightly set back, assuming a stately air. The building was originally a religious sanctuary. It was closed down in 1798 and became a private residence in 1801. Carducci moved there in 1890 and lived there until the end of his days. The poet's appartment was on the first floor and still contains his personal effects including some antiques, portraits, furniture and his academic robes etc. It is exactly as he left it before his death. He had a remarkable private library containing some 40,000 books as well as thousands of letters written to him by noteworthy contemporaries. There are also many original manuscripts and a large section dedicated to Carducci's own work. On the ground floor there is the city's Unification of Italy museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jones9999999 |
Grassi family residence |
Via Marsala 12 Bologna 40126 |
Palazzo Grassi was once the senatorial residence of the Grassi family. The portico in front of the building is held up by long wooden pillars, characteristic of 13th century Bologna. Wonderful frescoes decorate Palazzo Grassi's rooms. Today the building is home to the Officer's Club. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessandro Guerani |
Not just a garden |
Corso Cavour Verona 37121 |
Although it is the Renaissance style gardens here that are best know, being one of the most beautiful in Verona, the Palazzo Giusti is also worth a visit. The building is the work of the architect Francesco Perotti and was probably built around 1572. It is built in a U-shape, a typical characteristic of suburban palaces. On the façade, there remains a few of the original decorations painted in 1591 by Orazio Farinati. Inside there are several frescoes which are the work of Francesco Lorenzi and Lodovico Dorigny. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Abigail le Fleming |
 Photo: Marilee Rautenberg |
A romantic balcony |
Via Cappello, 21 Verona 37121 |
This is an obligatory port of call for any visitor to Venice, not least to see the Juliet statue, dedicated to the joys of being in love.The building, is based on the 13th century design, was built on the remains of a Roman 'insula' building. The elegant balcony which looks out over the courtyard was renovated by Antonio Avena in 1935, while the much-photographed Juliet statue is by Nereo Costantini. Juliet's house is now the property of the state and is used to house temporary art exhibitions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hani Morsi |
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 Photo: Uri Schneider |
 Photo: Madame Eleonora |
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 Photo: Laura Geraghty |
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The world's most famous lover |
Via delle arche Scaligere, 2-4 Verona 37121 |
According to tradition, this 14th century building with Gothic elements is where Romeo lived (even if historians say that it was the house of Cagnolo Nogarola). The principle façades look out onto an internal courtyard, adorned with arcades and passageways. The house, which looks like a fortress with numerous crenellations at the top, may be observed from the outside and is not open for tours; however, a trip to Shakespearean Verona would not be complete without taking a few pictures of the the house of the most romantic Montague. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
 Photo: Carmen Kastelen |
Venetian Political History adorned by Veronese Paintings |
Inside the Doge's Palace San Marco 1, Entrance for the public: Porta del Frumento, Piazzetta San Marco Venice 30124 +39 0412 715 911 http://www.museicivicivenezian... mkt.musei@comune.venezia.it |
The Institutional Chambers (Le Sale Istituzionali) are the magnificent rooms where Venice's political and judicial organs resided for centuries. The most popular rooms include the Room of the Great Council, the Room of the Senate, the Room of the Collegio and the Room of the Council of Ten. All of them are adorned by the work of prominent artists of the late Renaissance period (15th and 16th century): Titian, Tintoretto and Veronese. Your tour begins on the second floor with the Atrium Square where you can see Veronese's Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden as well as Tintoretto's ceilings. Then you enter the Room of Four Doors with outstanding pieces like Titian's portrait of Doge Antonio Grimani. The tour continues with the Antechamber to the Hall of the Full Council, the waiting room for ambassadors and delegations. The central fresco features Veronese's famous Rape of Europe. Continue to the Council Chamber to reach the Senate Chamber where you can admire the wall clock in addition to further masterpieces from Veronese and Tintoretto on the ceilings. Down one floor, you finally arrive to the world-renowned and majestic Chamber of The Great Council. Considered the largest room in Europe (with the largest oil painting) and dedicated to the most important political body in Venetian Republic, it emphasizes Veronese dramatic and colorful Manerist Style in the Triumph of Venice. Admire also Tintoretto's portraits of the 76 Doges and Paradiso. At the end of your course, you'll reach the Bridge of Sighs linking the Institutional Chambers to the Prisons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Trish |
 Photo: Tim Harris |
 Photo: Melissa Batson |
Art nouveau in Turin |
11 via Principi D'Acaja Turin 10143 |
This city, famous for its works of baroque architecture, also has some noteworthy buildings from the art nouveau period. One of these is Casa La Fleur, designed by the architect Fenoglio. It has lateral walls with converging lines on the central body with a large piece of coloured glass and a tower crowned with a false balustrade of wrought iron with a floral theme. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Giancarlo Rapetti |
A neo-medieval castle in the Genoese hills |
Via Cabella, 15 Genoa 16122 |
This castle was built by the Florentine architect G. Coppode' between 1896 and 1904 for the Scottish insurance broker E. Mackenzie. Well-built and picturesque, its towers, trenches, draw bridges, mosaics, pictures and elegant decoration in wrought iron all make it an eclectic work of art. It is a mixture of past styles such as medieval, early Tuscan Renaissance as well as pure Art Nouveau. After being abandoned in 1986 the castle passed into the hands of the American Mitchell Wolfson Jr, who took on its restoration to house the Italian headquarters for the Wolfsonian Foundation, a rich collection of over 7000 works of art dating from 1885 till 1945. A lot of attention is given to the applied arts as well as architecture. This collection is currently held elsewhere in anticipation of being moved. Visits by appointment only. Free consultation. The library includes a vast collection of futurist material as well as a whole section dedicated to Italian architectural and urban planning between 1920 and 1945. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paola Cadeddu |
 Photo: Clio Chiang |
An Eclectic Building |
Piazza Castello Turin 10121 +39 11 442 9921 http://www.comune.torino.it/pa... |
The Palazzo Madama is situated in the centre of Piazza Castello, with its facade facing Via Garibaldi. It takes its name from the two Royal Dames who lived here, Maria Cristina and Giovanna Battista. During past centuries, it was the home of the Savoy family, as well as the site of the signing of important treaties, and the seat of the Italian Senate when Turin was the country's capital. Today it houses the Antica Museum of Art. Its historical date is somewhat difficult to determine because it has been continually reconstructed throughout its history. The oldest part is the Roman Porta Pretoria. The back of the building dates to a thirteenth century castle which can still be seen in the two towers situated at each corners. The typically baroque facade was built in the seventeenth century by the architect Filippo Juvarra. The internal staircase is also attributed to him and is one of the best examples of the Piedmontese baroque style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Medieval house |
Piazza delle Erbe, 2 Verona 37121 |
The Casa dei Mazzanti stands to the north east of the Piazza delle Erbe, a renovation carried out between 1515-29, of the former "Domus Bladorum" dating from the Middle Ages. The building housed shop and stores, both rented and privately owned, while the upper floor was the location for the public grain store. The portico was added in 1480: frescoes by Alberto Cavalli (1530) decorate the façade, representing the Allegories of Ignorance, Greed, Love and Moderation. The rear part of the building is also interesting, with uncovered medieval beams and remains of the decorations and frescoes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: drop83 |
Handiwork of Michelangelo |
Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini Florence, FI +39 55 29 4883 |
The Medici Chapels are historical labors that are as grand in their own way as are the pyramids of Egypt. Started in 1605, these shrines were under construction for centuries. Eighty five years earlier Michelangelo was tasked to design and build the New Sacristy from one of the Medici cardinals Giulio de' Medici, who is remember in history as Pope Clement VII. Typical of a spiritual leader he was obsessed with the here-after and the creation of these intricate chapels testifies to that. Of artistic note are actual charcoal sketches by Michelangelo's own hand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jenni Jacobus |
 Photo: Kris Long |
 Photo: Josimar Dominguez |
 Photo: Angie Reddick |
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A fake piece of real history |
Corso Massimo D'Azeglio Fiume Po Turin 10126 |
This unusual structure is situated Valentino Park, not far from the Valentino castle. It was created for the 1884 exhibition and is a realistic reconstruction of what a 15th century Piedmontese village would have looked like. It shows such details as the craftsmen's workshops, the pomegranate fountain and the Landlord's castle, said to be inspired by the Fenis castle. These are most probably all copies of othe medieval buildings still in existence throughout Piedmont. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: cloddo |
A Classic of Renaissance Sculpture |
Galleria dell'Accademia Via Ricasoli, 60 Florence 50122 +39 55 238 8609 http://www.polomuseale.firenze... galleriaaccademia@polomuseale.firenze.it |
The world-renowned David, sculpted by Michelangelo between 1500 and 1504, is considered, along with the Pietà, the masterpiece of its creator who was only 26 years old at that time. Made out of marble, the statue portrays the biblical hero David before entering his battle against Goliath. It symbolizes the youth and strengh and is known to represent the power of the Florentine Republic. Originally, the statue stood in front of the entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio. For a better preservation, it has been removed from outdoors and is now displayed at the Galleria dell'Accademia. A copy of the statue remains on the Piazza della Signoria. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: williamhan - travell |
 Photo: Maarten Janssen |
 Photo: Noah Colvin |
 Photo: kelli galloway |
 Photo: Marek Discantiny |
Enchanting castle looking over the sea |
Viale Miramare Trieste 34136 +39 40 22 4143 http://www.castello-miramare.it |
This castle was the home of Maximillian until he was forced to leave and become the Emperor of Mexico. The next resident, Duke Amedeo of Savoy made it the seat for various military commands. In 1955, it was transformed into a museum. The castle still has the original furniture commissioned by Maximillian. There is a chapel; the Japanese and Chinese rooms, rich in oriental ornaments; and the apartments where the Duke of Savoy lived. Miramare is set in an extraordinary park, which extends over 22 hectares. Guided tours are available upon request: call for tour, parking and admission fees. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gio & Me |
 Photo: Alessandro |
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 Photo: Max Mattioni |
 Photo: Marco Bluocram |
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 Photo: Dr. Gabor Kakuja |
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More than a million books |
3 Piazza Carlo Alberto Turin 10123 +39 011 810 1111 http://www.bnto.librari.benicu... |
The National University Library faces onto the splendid piazza Carlo Alberto. The building, built between 1959-73, was designed by Pasquale Carbonara, Italo Insolera, Aldo Laviotti and Antonio Quistelli. The origins of the collection date from 1723 when King Vittorio Amedeo II decided to combine the 4000 texts in the Civic Library and the 10,000 in ducal collections with the university library. Since then, the collection has grown enormously although it has suffered heavy losses over the years. A fire, for example, at the start of the 20th c. spelt the end for many texts. Today the collection contains about a million texts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Salmon Nation |
Homes for the Bagatti brothers |
10 Via Santo Spirito Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
These homes built for the Bagatti Valsecchi brothers are typical examples of 19th-century style museum-houses. The first of the two buildings, designed and built between 1878 and 1883, is developed around two courtyards separated by a portico that links the entrances opening onto Via del Gesù and Via Santo Spirito. The façades, with different stylistic treatments, are in brick with a stone foundation. The second building in Via Santo Spirito was made in 1894-1895, and it features the incorporation of valuable original fragments, such as the second 15th-century portal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Abhineet Mishra |
Fine architecture from the 15th century |
Piazza degli Antinori, 3 Florence 50122 +39 55 29 2234 |
This building, an example of 15th-century civil architecture, is in the heart of Renaissance Florence, near the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and opposite the San Gaetano baroque church, which dates from the year 1000AD. Built for Giovanni Boni, it was constructed by Giuliano da Maiano who included a wide, internal courtyard, reflecting the geometric canons and harmonious equilibrium of the architecture of the time. The building is now private property, having passed out of the hands of the Antinori family in 1506. Their name, thankfully, has been preserved. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marc Beaudoin |
16th-century palazzo |
Piazza Santa Trinita, 1 Florence 50125 |
This 16th-century palazzo was one of the first examples of "Roman style" architecture which was brought to Florence by Baccio d'Agnolo. While the prevalent Florentine style of the time involved façades with rustication and plasterwork, between 1520 and 1523 Baccio d'Agnolo brought in an architectonic style using triangular tympana and columns typical of Roman classicism. This was not warmly received in Florence and in response to this the architect put an inscription in Latin on the façade. His family motto, used by the poet d'Annunzio, can instead be found above the entrance to via Porta Rossa: "per non dormire" (lest we sleep). The pictoral contrasts required by the stone facade have been revealed by recent restoration. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: anto_gal |
 Photo: Simone Beneventi |
Residence of the ancient nobility |
8 Piazza Borromeo Milan, Milan 20123 |
A palace dating to the early 15th century, it belonged to one of the most important families of Milan's nobility. It was seriously damaged during the 1943 bombing raids, and was later restored. The basic structure, which has in part survived, consists of two successive courtyards, which preserve extensive sections of the original construction. The façade facing Piazza Borromeo also preserves the ancient brick facing, with the original 15th-century portal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Antonella Ravasi |
 Photo: Gabriele |
Passed between many owners |
32 Via delle Botteghe Oscure Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 687 3056 |
Palazzo Caetani stands at 32, Via delle Botteghe Oscure. It was built for Alessandro Mattei in the middle of the 16th century in all probability by either Nanni di Baccio Bigi or Lippi. Before entering the possession of the Caetani (the dukes of Sermoneta and princes of Teano), it had belonged to many other families: for example, in the 17th century, it was owned by the Negroni; then by the Durazzo family for a century; after that it became the property of several other families in succession. The three-floor palace has a large portal that dominates the late Renaissance façade. Inside there are two large courts, the first surrounded by columns and pillars, the other with a fountain formed by a sarcophagus and ancient sculptures. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peppe & Mela |
Lion's head |
51 Via della Conciliazione Rome, Rome 00193 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Number 51, Via della Conciliazione is a rather plain building but nevertheless attracts attention due to a large marble lion's head half way up the right hand corner of the façade. This is Palazzo Cesi, commissioned by Cardinal Francesco Armellini Medici from Martino Longhi in the middle of the 16 century. The family crest is shown on the main entrance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marcia Seymore |
Old noble townhouse |
2 Via Daniele Manin Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 655 4977 |
The patrician townhouse, Casati Dugnani, is one of the few Milanese residences built outside the medieval walls. It was built at the end of the 17th century by the Meda family, and altered in the 18th century when it passed first to the Casati family, then to the Dugnani. In 1857, the palazzo and its vast grounds (purchased by the city council in 1854) were incorporated in the Public Gardens and became the home of the Natural History Museum, later a secondary school. It was damaged during WW2 but restored and now hosts events and a film museum. Seen from Via Manin, the façade of the palazzo is typically 17th century and rather staid. However, the retired central body of the complex and the wings are more varied and boast elegant porticoes and loggias. Inside in the upper rooms there are stuccoes and frescoes by the Venetian school, an elegant reception room surrounded by a landing, and superb frescoes painted by Tiepolo in 1731 that were commissioned by Count Giuseppe Casati. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adriano Soares |
Houses Oriental Studies Institute |
12 Piazza San Domenico Maggiore Naples 80134 |
The palace looks out onto the Piazza San Domenico and houses the various departments that make up the Institute of Oriental Studies. In 1506, a Florentine architect named Giovanni Donadio (nicknamed 'Il Mormando') was commissioned by Giovanni de'Sangro to re-design a primitive factory building. Traces of the old building are visible on the first two levels of the façade: the Doric pilasters of the lower floor correspond to the Corinthian pilasters of the upper floor, topped by an imposing Renaissance frieze decorated with metopes and triglyphs. Following the earthquake of 1668 the new owner Duke Agostino Saluzzo di Corigliano decided to completely change the appearance of the building in 1727. The lower floor was preserved, while the upper floor was restructured and the large 'Galleria' and the luxurious 'Cabinet' were added. These are both fine examples of eighteenth century Neopolitan interior design. The 'Galleria' is notable for its enormous dimensions and for its vault which is decorated with the 'Gigantomachia' and 'Episodes from the Aeneid'. The walls are covered in golden stucco. The 'Cabinet' is a much smaller cube-shaped room containing large mirrors, sculptures and Rococo engravings. Another floor was added towards the middle of the nineteenth century by the architect Gaetano Genovese. To visit the 'Cabinet', you will need to gain authorisation from the administration department. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: klaspior |
 Photo: consulenzaimmobiliare |
 Photo: Roberta Gooni |
The Durini domicile |
24 Via Durini Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Situated at the heart of historic Milan, this building was designed by Francesco Maria Richini in 1644, to a commission by Giovan Battista Durini, and completed in 1645. The speed in the building of the palazzo, and the richness of the decorations, indicates the notable financial power of this rich family of merchants. The building is based on two courtyards, the first the formal court with columns and round arches, and the second for service quarters. The façade is bordered by ashlar-work and by a projecting cornice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alice Twain |
The meeting of two cultures |
1 Via Giulia Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 688 9671 |
The palace on the lovely Via Giulia was bought by the state of Hungary in 1928, since which it has been the home of the Hungarian Academy. Here cultural initiatives are held, providing a meeting point between the Hungarian and Italian cultures. Design of the palace was by Bramante whom Pope Julius II had commissioned to design a road to connect Ponte Sisto to Ponte Trionfale together with buildings on either side. However, the final touches to this palace were added by Borromini, without spoiling the 16th c. structure of the building. The palace was named after Orazio Falconieri who bought it from the Farnese family in 1638. Inside there is a magnificent stairway and richly decorated ceilings. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: guitar4 |
The symbol of power |
1 Piazza Farnese Rome, Rome 00186 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
Great artists collaborated on the construction of Palazzo Farnese - Antonio da Sangallo was the first, having been commissioned by Cardinal Alessandro Farnese. Other contributors were Giacomo della Porta, and the great Michelangelo who redesigned the upper floors to make the palace taller and built the amazing cornice. The palace had already been enlarged in 1534 when Cardinal Farnese became Pope Paul III. On his death his two sons, Ranuccio and Odoardo, added more decoration inside to make the building yet more magnificent. When the Farnese family died out in the mid-18th c. the palace fell into decline and was only saved from further neglect when it became the French embassy in 1874. The embassy still resides in the palace and recently the main façade was restored. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anna Gabányi |
 Photo: Josep Maria Torra |
 Photo: Renato D. Godinho |
 Photo: Ching-Che Huang |
 Photo: Urbano Lulli |
Begun in the 17th Century |
24 Corso Magenta Milan, Milan 20123 |
This building was begun in 1648 by Francesco Maria Richini for the President of the Senate of Milan, Count Bartolomeo Arese, and it was later acquired by Dukes Litta Visconti Arese. The façade today is exactly as it was when it was built, between 1752 and 1763, by Francesco Bolli. Two wings and two floors frame the higher central volume with giant strip pilasters, with window surrounds and secondary portal alongside the main entrance. In 1873 it became the head office of a private rail company, and today it is a management office for the Italian State Railways. Inside, the courtyard with its colonnade leads to the monumental staircase with three ramps, designed by Carlo Giuseppe Merlo and dating to 1740. Worth visiting are the "Salotto Rosso", the "Sala degli Specchi" and the "Salotto della Duchessa", which conserve original 18th-century draperies, stuccoes and paintings by Martin Knoller and Giuseppe Agostino Gerli. Feature of interest: The grotesque masks on the façade. Visiting times: On request to the "Direzione Compartimentale delle Ferrovie dello Stato". Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Germana Breda |
 Photo: Andrea Radice |
Noble Palace |
2 Piazza della Scala Milan, Milan 20121 +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Seat of the Municipal government of Milan, the building was designed in 1558 by architect Galeazzo Alessi for Tommaso Marino. Left incomplete after having been confiscated in lieu of the owner's debts, the construction was modified by successive owners, and was completed only when Luca Beltrami built the façade facing Piazza della Scala in 1888-1892, on the model of Alessi's original façade facing Piazza San Fedele. An example of Mannerism, the building represents a combination of exuberant decoration and architectural motifs with a sophisticated use of classical elements. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marco Freddi |
 Photo: Journaldebord |
 Photo: milano jungle |
Remembrance of a resurrection |
141 Corso Vittorio Emanuele Rome, Rome 00186 |
This splendid palazzo was rebuilt after the preceding building had been destroyed by fire during the Sack of Rome. Its slightly curved form is caused by the fact that it was built on the ruins of the Domitian theatre. The architect, Baldassarre Peruzzi, turned to ancient Roman monuments for inspiration, but the façade facing Piazza dei Massimi was built in Renaissance style, with frescoes depicting episodes from the Old and New Testaments. The building is open to the public for just one day every year, 16 March, to commemorate a miracle by San Filippo Neri who brought young Paolo Massimo back to life. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
Palace dating back to 1499 |
Largo Corpo Di Napoli Naples 80134 |
This palace was built in 1499 for Cesare Pignatelli di Toritto. The palace is defined by its elegant renaissance lines, in which scrolls and baroque style decorations are inserted. Marble coats of arms which function as corbels, stand out in the facade, while on the ground floor you can see traces of arches and columns, probably remains of the ancient Nile seat. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luca Fabbri |
Albertian Renaissance classicism |
Piazza de Rucellai, 1 Florence 50125 |
This palazzo is the model described in the refined 15th-century text by Giovan Battista Alberti, "De re aedificatoria". It was built in the Piazza of the same name where a Loggia with three wide arcades was built for Giovanni di Paolo Rucellai, the same person for whom Alberti built the façade of Santa Maria Novella. The architectural model demands a Renaissance reading. There are three classical orders on three levels, and there are symbols and family crests which commemorate the Rucellai family, such as diamonds, feathers and sails, which can also be found in Santa Maria Novella. Construction began in 1455 while the Loggia was erected between 1463 and 1466. Until a few years ago it was the site of the Archivio Alinari and on the first floor there was the Alinari Museum of Photography, which was transferred to Piazza Alinari. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Federico Pelloni |
Palace belonging to the architect Sanfelice |
19 Via Arena della Sanità Naples 80137 |
Palazzo Sanfelice was built between 1724 and 1726, and was built to be a home for the architect and his family. It has four floors, with two symmetrical entrances. As in the Palazzo dello Spagnolo, the facade is decorated with pilaster strips and string course strips. The windows' rich stucco decoration was lost during the earthquake in 1980. The majestic portals allow access into two very different courtyards, and contain very original decorative elements, unusual scrolls, and a marble inscription supported by mermaids. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sergio barbieri |
Filippo Strozzi's palace |
Piazza Strozzi, 1 Florence 50122 |
This Palazzo was commissioned by Filippo Strozzi and the job was undertaken by Benedetto Da Maiano, who began work in 1489. He enlisted the help of Cronaca, who made the splendid jutting cornice in 1502, and who finished the large internal courtyard with porticos on all sides. Even though it was inhabited from 1504 the building was never fully completed, leaving the cornice and the southern facade unfinished. The rustication is present on three sides of the façade, which features many iron embellishments, including torch holders, hooks for horses or standard bearers. Some of these were substituted in the 19th century with exact copies of the designs by Benedetto da Maiano. Today the Palazzo is a famous site for temporary exhibitions which take place in the first floor rooms, while in other rooms accessible from the courtyard are based certain cultural organisations such as the Gabinetto Vieusseux, and the Instituto Nazionale di Studi sul Rinascimento. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andreas Jungherr |
 Photo: A. Georges Iskandar |
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 Photo: Andreea Alic |
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 Photo: Maria Kuvshinova |
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The Torlonia festivals |
30 Via della Conciliazione Rome, Rome 00193 +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist Information) |
The elegant Palazzo Torlonia was built for Cardinal Andriano Castellesi da Corneto, secretary to Pope Alessandro VI Borgia, but he never lived there. He let it before it was finished to Henry VIII of England who made it into the English embassy to the Holy See until the schism with Rome occurred when it was confiscated by the apostolic chamber. In 1760, the palace was bought by the family of Cardinal Giraud who were bankers in the city of Marseilles. A century later, the Torlonia family bought and subsequently transformed it. There is a debate about who was responsible for its design but, most probably, it was the work of Andrea Bregno who also designed the Palazzo della Cancelleria with which it bears some similarities. In the centre of the main façade, on Via della Conciliazione, the main entrance is adorned with pilasters and Corinthian capitals. The inner courtyard is more beautiful, perhaps by Raphael, and is decorated with statues, arches and two lovely fountains. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Journaldebord |
The window of power |
3 Piazza Venezia Rome, Rome 00187 |
Construction of this palace begun in 1455 for the Venetian cardinal, Pietro Barbi, who made it his residence. Construction of the first palace was completed shortly before his election to the Papacy in 1464 when he adopted the name Paul II. He then decided to amplify the palace and make it a dwelling worthy of a pope. The work continued until 20 years after the Pope's death and it underwent architectural transformations on several occasions over the centuries. In 1916 it was confiscated by the state of Italy which decided to make it the Palazzo Venezia museum, a role it still plays, as well as being the library of the National Institute of Archaeology and History of Art. During the Fascist regime, the palace was made famous by newsreels of the time, showing Mussolini speaking to the crowds below from a window in the palace. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sara |
 Photo: Austin Lee |
 Photo: kingpenguin1029 |
 Photo: Giancarla Cabidelli |
 Photo: il_duca |
 Photo: _travis_ |
The old papal mint |
31 Via del Banco di S. Spirito Rome, Rome 00186 |
The 16th century Palazzo del Banco di Santo Spirito stands at 31, Via Del Banco di Santo Spirito. Designed by famous artists such as Bramante and Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, the palace is positioned near Via dei Coronari close to Ponte Sant'Angelo. The main façade is concave in form with an ashlar ground floor in the centre of which there is a wide rectangular entrance. There are decorations on pilasters, Corinthian capitals, coats of arms, roundels, statues and an enormous arch. The other façade has an inscription that commemorates Benvenuto Cellini who worked at one time in the papal mint. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
From the Pope to the President |
Piazza del Quirinale Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 8530 1758 http://www.romeguide.it/MONUM/... ilsogno@romeguide.it |
Construction of the Palazzo del Quirinale began in the late 16th century, commissioned by Pope Gregory XIII, who chose the top of this hill as the location for the new papal residence. Various architects contributed to the design, including Carlo Maderno who devised the chapel, Bernini to whom one of the wings was entrusted, and Pietro da Cortona who decorated parts of the interior. It later became a royal palace, and is now the residence of the President of the Republic. The lovely garden is open to visitors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: marco_ask |
 Photo: Vincenzo Caruso |
 Photo: tuthfairee |
 Photo: perdindirindina.com |
 Photo: monsieuranonyme |
 Photo: Filiberto Ianigro |
 Photo: Xavi Castells |
 Photo: Salvatore Papa |
Casanova's Cell |
San Marco(Castello) San Marco 1, Entrance for the public: Porta del Frumento, Piazzetta San Marco Venice 30124 +39 0412 715 911 http://www.museicivicivenezian... mkt.musei@comune.venezia.it |
Arriving to the Palazzo delle Prigioni by the Bridge of Sighs , you will reach the famous prison where Casanova (1725-1798) was held captive in the middle of the 18th century. The building was erected in the mid-sixteenth century to improve prisoner's comfort from the Institutional Chambers's housed prisons. In 1755, famous writer, traveler, adventurer, lover and seducer Casonova was arrested and thrown to that terrible prison, from which he escaped the following year, becoming in that act the legend of 18th century Venice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roger Newbrook |
 Photo: Brian Agnew |
 Photo: cjrodkey |
 Photo: Tours by Norm |
 Photo: Julia Prieto |
 Photo: Mike |
 Photo: tylermully |
 Photo: Dawn Berden |
 Photo: Martin Dobey |
 Photo: Anna Ohland |
 Photo: miriam Lipton |
 Photo: Alan Webb |
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Palace belonging to Spanish nobleman |
19 Via Dei Vergini, Campania Naples 80137 |
This, "palazzo" was built in 1738 for Marquis Nicola Moscati. It was first named "dello Spagnolo" at the beginning of the 19th century when it became the property of Tommaso Atienza, a nobleman from Madrid. The building was almost certainly designed by Ferdinando Sanfelice, although his name is not mentioned in certain documents. The buildings plans include two courtyards, separated by a beautiful open stairway with double rampants and five arches. This is certainly an example of Sanfelice's creative genius which had major effect on the designs of Neapolitan stairways. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: macayetana |
 Photo: Michele Mazzella |
Michelangelo's idea |
Piazza del Campidoglio Rome, Rome 00186 |
Reorganisation of Piazza del Campidoglio began in 1539 as part of a plan undertaken by Pope Paul III. It was the first square created as part of a plan conceived by Michelangelo in which a space was created between Palazzo Senatorio and Palazzo dei Conservatori bounded by a new symmetrical building. The square is in the shape of a trapezoid with the Palazzo Senatorio on the longer side (the seat of the city council's administrative offices) and the Capitoline Museums on either side. Michelangelo also designed the monumental flight of steps that leads to the square on either side of which were the Dioscuri designed by Giacomo della Porta. Michelangelo also designed the pavement in the centre of which stands the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius which survived the Middle Ages as it was thought that it represented the Emperor Constantine, the protector of the Christian religion. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: © Michael Jourdanais |
 Photo: Richard J. Welebir |
 Photo: Scott Torguson |
 Photo: Javi García |
 Photo: pennacontro |
 Photo: aurelio candido |
 Photo: Karen Lee |
 Photo: Marco |
 Photo: Eliana |
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 Photo: TiagoBilou |
 Photo: Gustavo Salinas |
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Civic and Political Center |
Piazza della Signora Florence 50122 |
Piazza della Signora has been the hub of Florence's political life since the Florentine Republic during the 14th century and the city's Town Hall since 1322. This L-shaped square is surrounded by its most famous buildings. Among them, the Palazzo Vecchio, head of the Florentine government, the Galleria degli Uffizi, the Ponte Vecchio and the Palazzo Pitti are the most popular attractions. Look around you to see reproductions of Michelangelo's David and of Donatello's Judith and Holofernes as well as the original Fontain of Neptune by Bartolomeo Ammannati. Enjoy a full view of the Piazza from the terrace of the Loggia dei Lanzi. The place is a good starting point to begin your tour of the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fil Rouge |
 Photo: Ben Leto |
 Photo: Violet Carson |
 Photo: jo.hy.lee |
 Photo: Roberto Giannini |
 Photo: Yiqing Wang |
 Photo: Karl Borg |
 Photo: Diximage |
 Photo: DingerX |
 Photo: Nick Contos |
 Photo: Massimiliano Peana |
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 Photo: John Suarez aka Gumb |
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 Photo: Sharon Thai |
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The elegant district |
Via Cola di Rienzo Rome, Rome 00192 |
Prati di Castello - or simply Prati - was built beside Castel Sant'Angelo at the end of the 19th c. It was developed around Via di Cola di Rienzo which is cut by a number of smaller parallel streets to form a chessboard pattern. Prati is bounded by Piazza Cola di Rienzo and Piazza Risorgimento which was recently renovated for the Jubilee. The district also borders Vittoria, and those of Santo Spirito and Sant'Angelo. The palaces in Prati are not particularly tall. The first were built in simply decorated forms but then Art Deco, Neo-Gothic and Medieval styles were introduced. The following buildings are particularly worthy of note: nos. 85, 212 and 243 Via Cola di Rienzo; the palaces that face onto Piazza Cola di Rienzo; certain buildings on Via Marcantonio Colonna; and 67 Via Andrea Doria, but there are many more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: paolo caruso |
 Photo: mesicida |
 Photo: novella نو |
 Photo: Michela |
 Photo: Valerio Salvi |
 Photo: alice in waxland |
Palatium Novum, prison of King Enzo. |
Piazza Maggiore Bologna, Emilia - Romagna 40121 |
The palazzo Merlato was orginally known as the palatium novum. It was built in 1244 as the assembly building for the city coucil. They used to keep their weapons on the lower floors, including the famous carroccio, which played a major role in many of the city`s field campaigns. The Bolognese captured King Enzo, son of Frederic II, in 1242 at the important Battle of Fossalta. They imprisoned him here until his death in 1272. This famous prisoner left a legacy to the city in that from thenceforth the building was known as Palazzo Re Enzo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marcello Majonchi |
 Photo: Ginzi |
 Photo: Luca Parmigiani |
 Photo: orland76 |
 Photo: nikda |
 Photo: Tom Stewart |
 Photo: dark_side_of_the_fall |
 Photo: José Eduardo Silva |
The dream of an architect |
Tra Via Tagliamento e Via Arno Rome, Rome 00198 |
This area is called a 'district' but it really lies within the district of Trieste. It was mostly built during the 1930s so has many square blocks of apartments that were typical of the period. It was designed by architect Gino Coppedé, after whom it was named. The street to see is Via Dora, which culminates in Piazza Mincio. Coppedé made use of floral motifs typical of Art Nouveau. Also note the balcony that unites two palazzos and which supports an enormous streetlight. The period setting and peacefulness of the area means that it is often chosen for film sets. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabio Santonocito |
 Photo: fluidotv |
 Photo: Antonio Angelo |
 Photo: Simona |
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 Photo: Silvia Perosino |
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 Photo: Michele Di Gennaro |
 Photo: Tamara Lanciotti |
 Photo: Ekaterina Averina |
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Dining On-The-Go |
Corso Turati 19/6 Turin 10128 +39 011 576 4733-750 http://www.comune.torino.it/gt... |
With all the wonderful food and historic sights Turin has to offer, it can be hard to fit everything into one visit. However, Ristocolor provides busy travellers with a new way to dine- onboard a historic tram! Take a ride through the streets and past historic monuments while enjoying each dish specializing in the delicious Piedmont cuisine. The tram has been completely renovated to fit up to 32 passengers, with colorful decorations both inside and out. It is a great way to fit in even more of what the city has to offer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: MAX 2006 |
Beautiful frescoes in 13th-century palace |
Piazza Caricamento Via Frate Oliverio Genoa 16124 |
The palazzo was the seat of the city's power at the time it was built, between 1260-62. It was then transformed into a customs office, housing the powerful St. George's Bank for four centuries, before it moved to its current location at the Autorità Portuale. It consists of two distinct parts, of which the medieval element was restored by d'Andrade in the 19th century, while the lively frescoes in the 16th-century wing have been only recently cleaned and restored, according to the original designs. Inside, apart form the beautiful 17th-century statue of the Virgin Mary in the courtyard, it is worth noting the momument to Francesco Vivaldi, the rich 14th-century merchant who invented the moltiplico (modern cumulative interest) and the five marble chests (one for each bank office) in which the so called lettere orbe, or anonymous indications of the malfunctioning of the various offices, were put. The Venetian Marco Polo was a prisoner of the Republic of Genova, dictated his famous "Milione" here, to Rustichello form Pisa. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniela Demergasso |
 Photo: Stefan Gliesche |
 Photo: Tom |
 Photo: Bruno |
Naple's opera house |
93f Via San Carlo Naples 80133 +39 81 797 2111 http://www.teatrosancarlo.it/ |
Commissioned by King Charles of Bourbon, Europe's oldest working theatre was built in 1737. It wasn't long before its magnificent architecture and exquisite blue, gold and silver décor, complimented by a programme with wider public appeal, was attracting praise from both home and abroad. Completely destroyed by a fire in 1816, Ferdinand I of Bourbon ordered the theatre to be rebuilt just six days later. As a result the acoustics, still regarded as perfect, were improved and the stage extended. The opera season begins in January in Naples. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: nicole_yonnetti |
 Photo: CharlieBrigante |
 Photo: marcie baeza |
Old medieval castle |
Piazza della Cattedrale, 2 Trieste 34121 +39 40 30 9362 |
There has been ongoing renovations to this castle and is often times closed to the public, so find out before making the hike up to it. One of the symbols of the city, this castle is set on its highest hill. The building, started in 1470 on the site of a Venetian fort, was not finished until 1630. A passage to the courtyard leads to the site museum and a restaurant. On the ground floor, there is the chapel dedicated to San Giorgio. A large staircase lined with with armour leads to the Venetian Room on whose ceiling is a large painting of the Allegory of Venice, by Andrea Celesti (1637-1712). On the second floor is a collection of armour. Call for admission and tour information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: fuggevole |
 Photo: David Salvatori |
 Photo: Valentina |
 Photo: the.puppeteer |
 Photo: marion.penning |
Built by Antonio Roderio |
Via del Molo Genoa 16128 |
This gate was built in 1553, in a Doric style by Antonio Roderio, to the designs of Galeazzo Alessi. It completed the walls which closed the city away from the sea, and is an extraordinary example of military architecture. The unusual name 'Siberia' has no geographic references but instead derives from the term 'Cibaria': in fact, the gate stands near the former grain warehouses which replenished the supplied of ships in port. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesco Pantile |
Sistine Chapel of Rome |
Viale Vaticano Viale del Vaticano Rome, Rome +39 068 530 1758 http://www.vatican.va ilsogno@romeguide.it |
Visiting Rome for the first time, visitors must experience the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican structure with 50 million monthly visitors. The Chapel was built between 1477 and 1481 by Pope Sixtus IV. From 1480 to 1483 the walls were decorated by famous artists of Renaissance, such as Botticelli, Perugino, Ghirlandaio. After twenty years, Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to decorate the ceiling in 1508. Today, after the restoration, tourists can visit the chapel and see Michelangelo's 'Last Judgement'. The Vatican has placed its enormous art collection on the Web in hopes that it will attract more tourists. The site allows visitors to take a virtual reality tour of some of the dozen museums and galleries that make up the Vatican collection, viewing Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with a three-dimensional video. At the Chapel, you will invariably find it crowded with hundreds of tourists, so be prepared. The best way to see it is to go to the Vatican Museums early, so that you're among the first in line when they open. Silence should be observed and photography is not prohibited. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jan Voorhaar |
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A successful example of self-promotion |
Piazza Fontane Marose, 6 Genoa 16124 |
Built by Giacomo Spinola in 1445-59, at the top of Via Luccoli, a noble 14th century residential district, the palazzo faces the Piazza Fontane Marose, once an arena for tournaments, and today an important link between Via Garibaldi and Via XXV Aprile. It is characterised by a black and white façade, an honour reserved solely for the four principal families of the city (Doria, Spinola, Fieschi and Grimaldi). The palazzo anticipated by almost a century the Genovese trait of building up onto the hillside behind, exploiting the slope and giving rise to unexpected internal gardens, ponds and terraces. The opening of the Via XXV Aprile in the nineteenth century and the subsequent lowering of the level of the piazza, as well as the twentieth century restorations, especially the 'medieval revival' cleaning, produced the current building which however retains all the noble characteristics of the original. The five late medieval statues on the facade were intentional self-promotion by the Spinola family. They were made by the Bissoni family, Lombard sculptors active in Genova between the end of the sixteenth and the beginning of the seventeenth centuries. This building is not open to the public as it is the headquarter of a bank. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: LuigiL |
When the king went out to hunt......... |
7 Piazza Principe Amedeo, Stupinigi Nichelino 10042 +39 011 358 1220 http://www.mauriziano.it |
At the edge of the city, behind the Corso Unione Sovietica, is the majestic Stupingi Hunting Villa, near sixteenth century stables and old farmsteads. It is a beautiful, baroque creation built for Vittorio Amedeo II and designed by Filippo Juvarra in 1729. The main building is in the centre of a vast complex, and is in the shape of a St. Andrew's cross. Everything is set around the grand, elliptic salon, which has an admirable copy of the deer of Ladatte on its ceiling. The building is now home to the furniture museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Emiliano Dovico |
 Photo: Haley Rogers |
 Photo: david sacco |
 Photo: Paula Martin |
Tranquil Accommodation for Athletes |
96 Corso Novara Turin, Italy 10152 +39 011 11 2006 http://www.torino2006.org/ENG/... pressoffice@torino2006.it |
Three Villages in Turin, Sestriere and Bardonecchia are home to 4,000 athletes, insuring their comfort and relaxation. Turin, the largest Village is located next to the Oval Lingotto, with the 1934 Mercati Generali (General Markets) historical building at the center of its complex. Built using bio-architectural methods, skiers, skaters and bobsleigh runners alike will have environmentally sound housing, which is estimated to save 60% on energy costs. The Turin Village meets the needs of competators with a shopping mall, two large restaurants, medical center, massage center, relaxation lounge and gymnasium. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesco Mattioli |
 Photo: fedaa |
 Photo: Agnes PIERRE-LOUIS |
 Photo: Jérémie GUY |
 Photo: Guto |
 Photo: Benjamin Galli |
Seat of the Catholic Church |
Viale Vaticano Rome, Rome http://www.vatican.va |
The Vatican is among the most important historical sites in the world. The seat of the Holy Roman Catholic Church, The Vatican is also the home of the Pope. As the smallest state in the world, the Vatican has figured in key events throughout history. Occupying about one half kilometer of Rome, The Vatican is further significant because of its fabulous architecture, religious, and artistic treasures. It was Pope Julius II della Rovere in the 16th century who commissioned Michelangelo to paint the history of creation on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Among countless other notable events in the history of this important city are the convening of the College of Cardinals, at the death of a reigning Pontiff, for the purposes of electing a new Pope. No visit to Rome is complete without an excursion to The Vatican, a place so steeped in history and tradition that you will never forget it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: devon rose |
 Photo: greynforty |
 Photo: Nancy Wilt |
 Photo: Andreas Nellas |
 Photo: David Clarke |
 Photo: Natasha Pitre |
 Photo: kp_kyak |
 Photo: Aaron Seaman |
 Photo: Marcus Grbac |
 Photo: Jen K |
 Photo: Katy Cordes |
 Photo: D. J. O'Donnell |
 Photo: jill cooper |
 Photo: Alex Karel |
 Photo: Peter Macdonald |
 Photo: Reda Garza |
 Photo: Ian Abramson |
A baroque jewel in Via Po |
17 Via Po Turin 10124 +39 11 670 6111 |
The Palazzo dell'Università was built between 1713 and 1720 according to a design by Michelangelo Garove. It is now the home of administrative offices and the rector of the University of Studies of Turin. To admire the internal courtyard with a double loggia and the monumental portal on Via Verdi, visitors can enter during the opening hours of the Segreterie Studenti. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paolo |
 Photo: Gallo Diego - To - |
 Photo: lorenzo de martin to |
Temple of opera |
Piazza Bra Verona 37121 +39 45 800 3204 |
The Arena, located outside the city walls, is a Roman amphitheatre built in the first half of the first century A.D. It is the third largest building of its type and is the most well preserved. It has been used to host games and battles, plays in the 12th century, jousting in the Middle Ages, and in 1913, it became the largest operatic theatre in the world. The acoustics and the sheer size of the place lend themselves well to grandiose operatic performances, amongst which the performance of Giuseppe Verdi's 'Aida' is particularly famous. The interior is open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeff O'Hara |
 Photo: Edyta Nowakowska |
 Photo: Sarah Walmsley |
 Photo: mr.lukacs |
 Photo: Sky Eckstrom |
 Photo: Niall Drew |
 Photo: Pedro Bravo |
 Photo: Sue Hill |
 Photo: Aitor Vilchez |
 Photo: HeiHoiHauki UnLtd |
 Photo: Werner Schulz |
Splendid Italian gardens |
Via del Rossellino, 72 Florence 50135 +39 55 69 7205 |
This is an exceptional example of an Italian-style garden, carefully tended by the Capponi family, who came into possession of it in the seventeenth century. The family completely renovated this old country home which had previously belonged (in the 15th century) to the father of the celebrated sculptor, Rossellino. In the twentieth century the garden was enriched with fountains and statues under the careful guidance of skilled gardeners, at a time when the villa belonged to a princess. Restoration works were also carried out to repair Second World War damage. This private villa only allows visitors to its external gardens, including on Sundays and Bank Holidays by prior arrangement. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kirsten Vinyeta |
The villa of scientific research |
63 Viale Settimio Severo Turin 10133 http://www.regione.piemonte.it... |
Villa Gualino, built in the nineteenth century as a private property, has for many years been the home of the scientific exhibition Experimenta and now hosts various foundations. Amongst the most memorable are, the ISI foundation, the Association for Scientific and Technological Development of Piedmont and the Foundation for Biotechnology. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Carlo Magni |
 Photo: Jakob Grunig |
 Photo: DYago |
 Photo: Sergione76 |
Cultural ground |
10 Passeggiata del Gianicolo Rome, Rome 00165 +39 6 48 8991 (tourist information) http://www.villalante.org/ |
Villa Lante, located on the slopes of the Gianicolo, offers a splendid view of the city of Rome. The villa was built by a rich Tuscan merchant between 1518 and 1531. Villa Lante was used by its owner for literary meetings and parties, but on his death it was sold to the Lante family from whom it takes its name. This family remained its owners for almost 250 years until they sold it to the Borghese family who made substantial changes. At the end of the 19th century the archaeologist Wolfgang Helbig lived there with his wife, a cultured Russian princess. In 1950 the Helbig family sold the property to the Finnish state, which made it their embassy to the Vatican and the centre of the Roman Institute of Finland, which is dedicated to archaeological research. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Elise Towle Snow |
 Photo: Justin Paszul |
 Photo: Bart van Maarseveen |
 Photo: Elizabeth Farrell |
 Photo: Francesco Minciotti |
 Photo: Alison Wooder |
 Photo: Meri Päivärinne |
One of the most attractive Venetian villas in Italy |
Piazza dei Dogi, 1 Codroipo 33033 |
Villa Manin, is probably, the most beautiful of all the Venetian villas in Italy. Built in the 16th century (but at the time it was only a country house), the villa grew in proportion to the increasing wealth of the Manin family. The plan of this grandiose complex is linked to the Roman piazza of San Pietro whilst the interior boasts beautiful frescoes by the Frenchman Dorigny. All around the extensive gardens are enriched with rare plants, fountains and statues. In 1797 it became Napoleon's general headquarters and today houses the carriage museum and a collection of ancient arms and is used by the regional administration to house important cultural and musical events. It is around an hour from Trieste by car. For further information, contact the regional office for the promotion of tourism on the free phone number 800016044. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Elisabetta Selva |
 Photo: Pier Antonio Zanini |
Splendid Medici villa |
Via della Petraia, 40 Florence 50141 +39 55 45 1208 |
It was Ferdinando I de' Medici who commissioned the restructuring works to this castle, which belonged to the Brunelleschi family in the second half of the 16th century. It seems more than likely that Buonalenti was placed in charge of the project. In 1648, Volterrano completed the frescoes on the walls of the inner courtyard, depicting the splendour of the Medici family. The courtyard was covered with an iron structure when the villa passed to the Savoy family, who then transformed it into a summer residence, introducing new furniture, including imperial pieces from other royal residences. The Italian gardens in front of the villa, complete with nurseries, greenhouses and pools, were designed in the 16th century and partly modified in the 19th century. To the rear are some beautiful English gardens designed by Fritsch. Many of the villa's rooms are open to visitors, including the lounge which the Savoy family equipped with parlour games. Guided tours are available at specific times. The gardens close one hour prior to the villa and tickets are also valid for entry to the park at the Villa Medicea di Castello. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: chiara sibona |
School of the Greatest |
1a Viale della Trinità dei Monti Rome, Rome 00187 +39 6 6 7611 |
In the 16th century, this was built on the Pincio hill, and was named 'Medici' when Cardinal Ferdinando de'Medici acquired it from the Ricci da Montepulciano family. The exterior walls of the villa are decorated with Roman statues and bas-reliefs, as if to create an open-air museum, a style which was much in fashion at that time. This was possible then because during the construction of large residences, archaeological remains were inevitably found during excavations for the foundations, and so these discoveries were more chance findings than systematic digs. The villa is the seat of the French Academy, created to enable young French painters to study in Rome. At present the gardens are closed for restoration, but art exhibitions are organized, generally hosted in an interior called the 'rimessone', where carriages were once parked: now concerts are performed here. The illustrious students of the French Academy include Fragonard: Berlioz and Debussy studied here after the Academy had extended its activity to music as well as painting. As the opening hours are irregular, it is advised to telephone prior to visiting. Admission price is variable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ben Morson |
 Photo: Jon Cronin |
 Photo: Jaap Stronks |
A lily pond in a secret villa |
Via S.Bartolomeo degli Armeni, 5 Genoa 16122 |
Located in the area of Castelletto near via Assarotti, this splendid sixteenth century villa is perhaps the best kept secret of the work of the Perugian architect Galeazzzo Alessi. It is privately owned, and as such is open to the public only on special occasions. It consists of a compact square, galleried block, situated on a flat space in a wonderfully panoramic location, surrounded by a flourishing terraced garden. The interior is frescoed by L. Cambiaso and G.B. Castello (known as 'Il Bergamasco'), working together in a well-established team. The villa has conserved its attractive sixteenth century lily pond, completely tiled with mosaics and shells, an enormously successful design that was copied in many other aristocratic country residences. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Saverio Salatino |
Mid-18th-century house |
7 Via Doge Pisani Venice 30020 +39 4950 2074 |
Constructed over a period of twenty years in the middle of the 18th century, the architects of this building were Gerolamo Frigimelica and Francesco Maria Preti. The stable buildings are magnificent. The enormous house is set in dense parkland. It is home to one of Giambattista Tiepolo's most well-known frescoes, 'The Glories of the Pisani House'. The Villa Pisani was one of Napoleon's residences and was also the scene of talks between Mussolini and Hitler. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: zarpynho |
 Photo: Giampaolo Urbani |
 Photo: Luca Beraldo |
 Photo: becky&ralpho |
 Photo: truesmile |
 Photo: Simone Finotto |
 Photo: Marta Sanga |
 Photo: claudia |
 Photo: atomozero |
 Photo: Heini Kiiski |
 Photo: celeborn36 |
 Photo: Francesco Caravenna |
 Photo: Federica... mentre C |
 Photo: orietta.vanzato |
 Photo: mario |
 Photo: Matteo Cargasacchi |
Villa designed by Palladio |
11 Strada statale Romea Padova-Venezia (direzione Fusina) Malcontenta 30030 |
This house was built in the second half of the sixteenth century, designed by Andrea Palladio and paid for by Niccolò and Alvise Foscari. Its name 'la Malcontenta'(the unhappy woman) is said to come from an ancient legend about a lady of the Foscari family who was banished. The house has a central hall surmounted by a triangular gable. Probably the Vicenza architect's first project for the ruling family, it led to several successive commissions. Inside, you will find frescoes by Battista Franco and Battista Zelotti, who succeeded him. Admission: L. 10,000 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bárbara De Mena |
 Photo: Andrea Baldassa |
Built at the end of the 15th century |
Via Filippo Re 2 Bologna 40126 +39 51 209 1473 |
The Palazzina della Viola was built at the end of the 15th century for Giovanni II Bentivoglio, the last of the noble Bentivoglio family to govern Bologna. It was built to be a place of beauty, and its interiors were decorated with some wonderful frescoes during the 16th century. The front with its double open gallery is particularly attractive. Today the Palazzina della Viola houses the Faculty of Agriculture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesca |
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