01/04/2011
April is one of the busiest in the Italian calendar, far too many to mention so I have picked out a few of my favourites that give a real taste of Italy and their love of history, tradition, celebration and all things beautiful!
Happy Birthday Rome (17 April) On 17th April Romans and visitors alike celebrate the birth of the Eternal city that was founded by Romulus a mere 753 BC. The city becomes a hive of activity, colour and fun with parades, gladiator re-enactments, traditional Roman banquets and public speeches that take place throughout the city including the fabulous Fori Imperiali and the Circo Massimo.
Stay in the luxuriously stylish and elegant
Residence Via Assisi for a central base in which to explore this city.
Assisi Antiquariato (22 April – 1 May) Over 15,000 of Italy’s finest antique dealers and amateur collectors come together to Umbria this month to this antique’s fair that sees 15th,16th and 17th Century furnishings, paintings, sculpture, jewellery, books, etc.
Just 6kms from Assisi is the tranquil retreat of
Casa Francescana, a restored farmhouse with her own private swimming pool.
Fiori e Sapori (10 April) Milan’s Naviglio Grande is transformed into an array of magnificent colour and scents with floral displays and local artist works. The annual flower and gardening show is a celebration of flowers and taste and visitors can also enjoy the local bars, restaurants and shops.
Stay in one of Cottages to Castles’ wonderful
properties on Lake Como or within Varese just an hour away from Milan itself.
The Passion of the Christ (22 April) Easter celebrations are celebrated throughout Italy in wonderful parades, moving and solemn re-enactments and loud and colourful festivals; one of the most popular is that of St Peter’s Square in the Vatican City.
A favourite of mine takes place in the town of Grassina in Florence where over 500 actors helps to re-create the Passion of Christ throughout the streets of the town followed by a play with scenes of Christ’s life. It is a moving experience and one never to forget.
We have a wonderful
selection of apartments, cottages and villas throughout Tuscany, allowing you to experience the celebrations of Grassina, the tranquillity of the landscapes and the artistic cities of Pisa, Lucca & Florence.
Italian Liberation Day (25 April) Celebrated throughout Italy it marks the end of the German-Fascist control on 25 April 1945.