January 31, 2006
VIA DEI FORI IMPERIALI
Una massiccia e frettolosa operazione di rimozione di un intero quartiere situato sopra l'area dei Fori Imperiali venne effettuato nel corso del 1932, in occasione del decennale del regime fascista, per l'apertura di via dell'Impero. In questa occasione furono distrutti, oltre alla collina Velia, decine di migliaia di metri cubi di antichità romane ed era stata rasa al suolo un'intera zona cinquecentesca con le sue chiese, palazzi, orti. La mattina del 9 aprile 1932 Mussolini a cavallo tagliò il nastro inaugurale; fece seguito una massiccia sfilata di mutilati della grande guerra come ideale ricongiungimento dell'abnegazione patriottica moderna con il ricordo della potenza antica. Dopo il 1945, via dell'Impero è stata suddivisa e rinominata in via dei Fori Imperiali nel primo tratto, poi piazza del Colosseo, via di S.Gregorio dall'Arco di Costantino al Circo Massimo ed infine via delle Terme di Caracalla dal Circo Massimo alle Mura Aureliane. Via dei Fori Imperiali prende il nome, evidentemente, dall'esistenza dei Fori Imperiali, ossia quelli di Cesare, di Augusto, il Transitorio (costruito da Domiziano ma inaugurato da Nerva) e quello di Traiano. Sulla parete che si estende dinanzi alla Basilica di Massenzio e che corrisponde al muro di sostegno del giardino pensile del Pio Istituto Rivaldi, è situata, all'interno di una grande nicchia, una vasca elicoidale in travertino (nella foto a sinistra). Al centro della vasca, su una base quadrata marmorea, sormontata da un cubo di minori dimensioni, poggia un'antica, bellissima tazza di granito bigio decorata da due mascheroni nel cui centro si eleva un alto zampillo d'acqua. La tazza fu rinvenuta durante gli scavi avvenuti, nel 1696, per l'ampliamento del porto di Ripa Grande. Papa Innocenzo XII ne fece dono alla Curia Innocenziana (attuale Palazzo Montecitorio) dove andò ad ornare la fontana del cortile. Quando il palazzo venne modificato per la realizzazione della Camera dei Deputati, la tazza fu rimossa e trasferita, su suggerimento di Antonio Muñoz, nel prospetto da lui ideato. (from romasegreta.it)
Una massiccia e frettolosa operazione di rimozione di un intero quartiere situato sopra l'area dei Fori Imperiali venne effettuato nel corso del 1932, in occasione del decennale del regime fascista, per l'apertura di via dell'Impero. In questa occasione furono distrutti, oltre alla collina Velia, decine di migliaia di metri cubi di antichità romane ed era stata rasa al suolo un'intera zona cinquecentesca con le sue chiese, palazzi, orti. La mattina del 9 aprile 1932 Mussolini a cavallo tagliò il nastro inaugurale; fece seguito una massiccia sfilata di mutilati della grande guerra come ideale ricongiungimento dell'abnegazione patriottica moderna con il ricordo della potenza antica. Dopo il 1945, via dell'Impero è stata suddivisa e rinominata in via dei Fori Imperiali nel primo tratto, poi piazza del Colosseo, via di S.Gregorio dall'Arco di Costantino al Circo Massimo ed infine via delle Terme di Caracalla dal Circo Massimo alle Mura Aureliane. Via dei Fori Imperiali prende il nome, evidentemente, dall'esistenza dei Fori Imperiali, ossia quelli di Cesare, di Augusto, il Transitorio (costruito da Domiziano ma inaugurato da Nerva) e quello di Traiano. Sulla parete che si estende dinanzi alla Basilica di Massenzio e che corrisponde al muro di sostegno del giardino pensile del Pio Istituto Rivaldi, è situata, all'interno di una grande nicchia, una vasca elicoidale in travertino (nella foto a sinistra). Al centro della vasca, su una base quadrata marmorea, sormontata da un cubo di minori dimensioni, poggia un'antica, bellissima tazza di granito bigio decorata da due mascheroni nel cui centro si eleva un alto zampillo d'acqua. La tazza fu rinvenuta durante gli scavi avvenuti, nel 1696, per l'ampliamento del porto di Ripa Grande. Papa Innocenzo XII ne fece dono alla Curia Innocenziana (attuale Palazzo Montecitorio) dove andò ad ornare la fontana del cortile. Quando il palazzo venne modificato per la realizzazione della Camera dei Deputati, la tazza fu rimossa e trasferita, su suggerimento di Antonio Muñoz, nel prospetto da lui ideato. (from romasegreta.it)
Piazza Navona
This piazza is a marvel of light and sculpture. It is exceptionally long and owes its shape to the ruins that formed it, for under the buildings that surround Piazza Navona are the remains of the Circus Domitianus, Domitian's stadium -- a part of which can be seen if you leave the piazza by the north exit and turn left. The piazza marks the area for the races in the stadium. It features many fine old buildings, a beautiful church and three stunning fountains. (Normally one would be happy if a piazza even had just one.)
It was in the arena that the twelve-year-old Christian, Agnes, refused to marry a pagan and was thus martyred on the spot where the church of Sant'Agnese ("uhn-YEH-seh") is located. In ancient times the stadium was the site of the Agonal games, from which the present piazza takes its name by corruption from "in agone" to "n'agone" to "navone" and finally "navona".
In the centre of the piazza is Bernini's most spectacular fountain, la Fontana dei Fiumi (= rivers, "FYOO-mee"), erected in 1651. It features a central rocky structure that supports an obelisk that was an ancient Roman imitation of the Egyptian form. Around this structure are four giant statues by Bernini's pupils following his designs representing the Nile, the Danube, the Ganges, and the Rio della Plata, each representing one of the four quarters of the world. These statues have quite lifelike positions and have such movement to them that they seem to be gesticulating. (from Romainteractive.com)
January 30, 2006
ONLY IN ITALIA.......News blog:
James Sturcke on Silvio Berlusconi's promise to be celibate until after the Italian elections.
A NEW PLANK IN THE HARPER PLATFORM FOR THE NEXT ELECTION? THIS MAY BE THE MAKINGS OF A MAJORITY.
January 29, 2006
True love in fair Verona
Forget the tourist trails of Venice and head to its beautifully preserved and less crowded neighbour
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DOROTHY
Stazione Roma Termini
January 27, 2006
THE AMALFI COASTITALY
Casa AngelinaIn the Amalfi Coast's first design hotel, Philippe Starck furniture and colorful Murano-glass sculptures pop against white surfaces but don't distract from vistas of the Gulf of Salerno and Positano. Along with all the expansive views, there are plenty of hidden nooks—the private beach, the junior suite's enviable terrace, and the indoor whirlpool. T+L TIP For an evening adventure to remember, arrange for a boat trip to the tower of La Capperina, where a couple can dine outside on the roof. 147 Via Gennaro Capriglione, Praiano; 877/783-4600; www.casangelina.com; doubles from $270.
LEARNING TO SPEAK ITALIAN AT 62 IS NOT EASY
I HAVE BEEN TAKING A CLASS IN BASIC ITALIAN NOW, 2X PER WEEK , FOR 4 WEEKS. EACH CLASS IS A MIND-NUMBING 3 HOURS IN LENGTH.
COMMON SENSE WOULD SUGGEST THAT THOSE OF ADVANCING YEARS MIGHT FIND IT DIFFICULT TO LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE, BUT I AM PERSISTING IN THE FACE OF REASON.
NEVER HAVING STUDIED ITALIAN, I HAVE NO BACKGROUND ON WHICH TO CALL , TO HELP ME IN MY QUEST. THUS LEARNING PRONUNCIATION, VOCABULARY, GRAMMAR, ETC IS A MONUMENTAL TASK.
I AM IMPRESSED THAT SIGNORA VOLERIO, OUR TEACHER, HAS MANAGED TO GET A GROUP OF MAINLY MIDDLE AGED ANGLOPHONES TO ACTUALLY SPEAK IN SENTENCES, (WELL WE THINK THEY ARE SENTENCES), AND ATLEAST TRY TO PRONOUNCE WORDS CORRECTLY.
IT IS STRESSFUL BUT IT IS ALSO FUN TO TRY TO DO THE IMPOSSIBLE.
January 26, 2006
VENETOIl turismo in regione
Regione (18.390 km²; 4.525.200 ab. stime 2000) dell'Italia Settentrionale confina a N con l'Austria ed è delimitata a NE dal Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a NW dal Trentino-Alto Adige, a W dalla Lombardia, a S dall'Emilia-Romagna. Capoluogo regionale è Venezia. Amministrativamente è divisa nelle sette province di: Belluno, Padova, Rovigo, Treviso, Venezia, Verona, Vicenza. Il termine Veneto, che si riferisce all'antico popolo illirico dei Veneti, comparve solo nella seconda metà del XVIII secolo a designare i territori di terraferma della Repubblica di Venezia, cioè le attuali province venete, più i territori lombardi del Bresciano, del Bergamasco e del Cremasco, il Friuli e gran parte dell'Istria.
(From La Repubblica - Viaggi)
Your complete guide to Italy 2006
Author Anthony Capella on why you should visit; Stanley Stewart in Hadrian's Sabina;
Howard Jacobson experiences the elegance ofPortofino
January 25, 2006
finding a clean public toilet in RomeWhere can you find a clean public bathroom in Rome? Very good question...There's some jolly nice restaurants in Rome, but visit their bathrooms in the middle of your meal and you could quite lose your appetite. Most public toilets in Rome are pretty disgusting. We won't go into details...
Indeed, public lavatories are pretty far and few between in Rome, and those there are, are either filthy or have some old hag sitting outside with a collection tray, who you're expected to tip. However, RomeBuddy is here trying to compile a list of cleanish public bogs in Rome where you won't be expected to pay for the privilege of wading through someone else's urine. The catch is that not all of them are in restaurants. (visit romebuddy.com for more)
Back to Roma
petty crime in rome
precautions to avoid thieves and pickpockets in rome
In July 2000, the ex-Olympic sprinter Ben Johnson was relieved of his wallet and the $4000 cash it contained by a small group of gypsy girls who accosted him on the famous Via Veneto in Rome. He gave chase but they outran him!!
The lesson is clear - Watch Out! Not only are these innocent looking children on the streets of Rome cunning thieves, they are also agile, well-practised and extremely fleet of foot...
Fortunately, mugging and violent crime attacks are relatively rare in Rome. However, there are many pickpockets in Rome, as in any large city, so the risks and dangers of theft are there, and tourists, even if accompanied by the best guide money can buy, still have to be extremely careful to ensure that their valuables and documents are not stolen. Although you can be robbed at any time in many different ways, from our experience the following are the main ploys used by thieves in Rome. There’s a sucker born every minute and ten thousand new suckers jetting into Rome every day, so the thieves and pickpockets don’t need to change their methods much; they just practice them until they've got it perfect. If they successfully rob you, it will be because their method was new to you, but not to them:
( to see more visit www. romebuddy.com )
January 24, 2006
LIGHTNING RIDGE, NSW, AUSTRALIA: HOME OF THE FAMOUS BLACK OPALLightning Ridge is located in the heart of Australia’s famous outback and is internationally renowned for producing the country’s national gemstone – opal.
With opal mining being the town’s primary industry, the region produces the world’s finest black opals and it is here you can experience the thrill of mining opals. The town has many attractions which allows you to experience and explore the opal fields. You can also try fossicking and watch the experts cut and polish precious stones to perfection.
There are many attractions which make the town unique and appealing for a relaxing family holiday all year round. With daytime winter temperatures of 12-22'C, Lightning Ridge is ideal for a warm winter getaway. Experience the therapeutic benefits of the natural Artesian Bore Baths, or if summer fun is what you are after, the town has a 5 Star Olympic Swimming Pool and Water Theme Park.
Lightning Ridge has a diverse range of native wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, possums and a remarkable range of reptiles. The town is also a haven for rare Australian birds and you can get up close and personal with a number of fascinating animals. .
The region has a number of adventure based tourist attractions including off road vehicle tours. Golfers might also like to try their hand on Lightning Ridge’s ‘country’ golf course and the town also boasts a clay target and pistol club.
Art lovers will be awestruck by the brilliance of local artists. There are a number of local galleries in the town and opal fields. There are also a number of arts and crafts centres including Kangaroo Hill Tourist Centre, Bird of Paradise, Vibes Pottery and Artworks and The Goondee Aboriginal Keeping Place.
Lightning Ridge boasts a 12-month program of entertainment with events including the Easter Goat Races, Opal & Gemshow Expo, spring exhibition of the Arts and Crafts Council, Opal Festival, Aristocrat Black Opal Fours Bowls Carnival, annual Golf Tournament, Pistol Competition and Easter Black Opal Rodeo.
(from www.lightningridge.net.au)
MOST OF THE TIME IT IS DRY AND HOT. OCCASIONALLY IT IS WET AND MUDDY
BRETT RIDING A HORSE IN THE OUTBACK OF OZHAPPY BIRTHDAY BRETT!
January 22, 2006
WHEN IN ROME.....ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
You can obtain consular assistance and further information at the following address:
Italy - ROME, Embassy of Canada
Address: Via Zara 30, Rome, Italy 00198
Tel.: 39 (06) 44 59 81 Fax: 39 (06) 44 598 29 12
E-mail: rome.citizenservices@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.rome.gc.ca
MORE FROM CANADIAN CONSULAR SERVICES RE- ITALY
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Most Canadian visitors to Italy do not experience problems. However, episodes of violence may occur, sometimes involving bomb attacks by organized criminal or extremist groups. The incidence of street crime is similar to that elsewhere in Europe, particularly in large urban centres. Pickpocketing and purse snatching occur at tourist sites, on public transportation, Internet cafés, and at major airports and railway stations. Motorcyclists frequently grab bags and other personal belongings from pedestrians, often resulting in injury. Car theft occurs at gas stations and on highways. Thieves often work in pairs or groups. One or more will distract the victim while another steals. Ensure your vehicle remains in sight when stopping at service areas. There are also reports of individuals staging roadside emergencies (e.g., a smoking engine or flat tire) to persuade drivers to pull over. Thieves then remove personal belongings from the distracted driver's car. Do not leave personal belongings unattended, especially in vehicles. Exercise normal precautions and ensure valuables are secure. In an emergency, call 113 for the police, 112 for the Carabinieri (military police). Travellers should exercise caution and be alert to scams targeting foreigners occur at gas stations, on highways, and on trains. Rail passengers have been offered drugged food or drink and been robbed while sleeping. Ensure your compartment door is securely locked.Strikes and demonstrations occur frequently. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings. Strikes may occasionally interfere with services, such as mail, telephone, and public transport.
CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONSULAR SERVICE INFO RE- ITALIA
ATTENTION
For more information on the 2006 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Turin, please see our Current Issues page.
The Italian government has warned of an increased threat of a terrorist incident in Italy. Recent security incidents in Europe demonstrate that attacks can occur without warning and against civilian targets. Security measures remain at a heightened level on public transport, on cruise ships, and in and around major tourist attractions, including the Vatican.OFFICIAL
REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country if they are going to be there for longer than three months. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).
January 21, 2006
Eating Habits
Italian table manners
This is a brief guide to eating and drinking in Italy and was given to us by 'Il Pinocchio Ristorante' in central Frascati, Lazio.
We quote:
Some people may think that Italian meals are excessively large and that they go on forever.
Leisurely they are, but portions are smaller than those served in the United States or the United Kingdom.
Thus, it is possible to eat a complete meal without feeling you have indulged or damaged your waistline.
And since all chefs take great pride in selecting the freshest of local ingredients, menus can change seasonally.
This means you won't be eating pears in June or green peas in December. When in doubt let your waiter help you to decide.
Italians love to discuss food and conferring with the waiter before ordering is almost expected.
In many restaurants written menus are only a guide to what an establishment offers.
Although most restaurants try to meet individual requests, just remember the old Italian adage "If you dont see what you love, love what you see".
To eat like an Italian, follow a few general rules.
Never put cheese on any pasta containing seafood. Never chop long strands of pasta with a knife. Twirl the strands on your fork and eat.
Soup is never followed by pasta.
Don't mix meat and seafood in the same meal. If you begin with a first course sauced with fish, dont order a second course of meat.
Vegetable based courses can be followed by fish or meat.
Italians drink espresso after a meal, never with a meal.
First courses or primi piatti can be pasta or soup or rice or even a small pizza.
Pasta can be dressed with meat, vegetable, egg, cheese or even fruit based sauces and variations are only limited by the chef's imagination.
Second courses or secondi piatti generally fall into two categories: meat and fish and contorni or side dishes to accompany secondi piatti represent some of the greatest triumphs of Italian cooking.
Although regular tap water is safe to drink throughout Italy, most Italians like to enjoy bottled water with their meal.
Digestives or 'digestivi' are not crumbly biscuits, but amaro (bitter) or liquoroso (sweet) drinks which traditionally finish a meal along with a strong espresso coffee.
(from www.deliciousitaly.com)
ITALIA
When Fruit and Vegetables are in Season
A list when various fruit and vegetables grown are at their peak.
PUGLIA
A pinch of the heel
The easiest part of describing this under-known region of Italy is explaining where it is.
If Italy is shaped like a boot--and it is--Puglia is the heel.But there is no Florence here. No Milan. No St. Peter's. No volcano. There is nothing here on the list of things everyone must see before he travels to The Land Beyond.The pleasures are many in Puglia, but they're the pleasures of quiet discovery and small, sweet moments.
Melbourne's ready to play
Jan. 21, 2006. 01:00 AM
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA—Heading down historic Flinders Lane to do what Melburnians love to do — indulge in good food and fine wine — the sight of a glass-bottomed swimming pool suspended high over the sidewalk is certainly eye-catching.
Skiing at 70 and beyond
More senior skiers hitting the slopes
By JIM GRAHAM -- Associated Press
Senior walk in mountains, carrying skis. -- Photographer: Steve Mason, Getty Images
Dick Arner hopped on his bicycle early one day last summer and rode 30 kilometres to Alta. Uphill. Pedalling high into the oxygen-thin air of the Wasatch Mountains, he arrived at the ski resort village, 2,590 metres above sea level, and purchased his season ski pass.
Not bad for a guy who's 71.
Age can be a state of mind.
It's 12C in the Great Warm North
Jan. 21, 2006. 01:00 AM
It's supposed to be the coldest time of the year in Toronto. Tell that to all the golfers who took advantage of record-breaking temperatures Friday. Curtis Rush and Paul Choi report.
If this is winter, give me more!
Vatican marks 500th anniversary of Swiss Guards
Jan. 21, 2006. 02:57 PM
ASSOCIATED PRESS
VATICAN CITY — Five hundreds years ago, mercenaries marched from Switzerland to Rome to aid Pope Julius II, and the Vatican is readying concerts, exhibits and celebrations to mark the half millennium of the Swiss Guards, who still protect the pontiff.
January 20, 2006
IF WHISKY IS YOUR THING ,TOMORROW IS THE DAYVICTORIA WHISKY FESTIVAL
By Michael Harris
Here's trouble: More than 80 whiskies from Scotland, Ireland, the United States and Canada will be served at Victoria's first annual celebration of the ''water of life.'' The three-hour tasting showcase held Jan. 21 at the Hotel Grand Pacific is open to novices as well as aficionados. Just remember not to wear your cologne -- it interferes with the nosing of those in the know.
Location: Victoria; British Columbia;
Subject: liquor; festivals
SWEAT OFF THOSE CHRISTMAS CALORIES
CARDIO, KITE SKIING AND CANINES
By PATRICK MULLIN
Weekend workoutBancroft, Ont.You made a resolution to shape up in 2006, but what have you done about it? To help you get into fighting form, Rick Garrett and Mandy Beland, personal trainers from Toronto's Bloor Park Club, are hosting two glute-busting boot camp weekends at Bancroft's Grail Springs Spa. While the workout will make you sweat, you'll be more than rewarded afterward with a one-hour massage, two organic meals a day and a great room to rest in overnight. Additional private training is available at extra cost.
Location: Bancroft; Keswick; Algonquin Park; Ontario;
Subject: travel; tourism
NOT ALL ROADS LEAD TO ROME
Roman holiday
An hour off the Lazio coast lies a rugged island hideaway. Sara Manuelli visits the capital's summer playground.
ENDANGERED TOURIST IN LONDON, ENG.
Fears for whale in Thames
Marine experts are desperately trying to save the rare whale that has strayed into the Thames in Central London Londoners learn how to rescue a whale Picture gallery Briefing: Thames whale
Eat Like a Venetian
In a city that often confounds food lovers, GAEL GREENE hits the ground running and enlists the help of some trusted locals to find a dozen of Venice's most memorable meals. Read article >>
January 19, 2006
The Next Big Thing
The mega leisure resort thrives in China
China Syndrome
Tony Law
Plus
Where to Go
Supersized golf resorts! Indoor ski slopes! A mini Mount Rushmore! As China's population climbs its way to the middle class, its taste for leisure is getting bigger. Howard W. French takes it all in
Ski Resort Travel Guide to Italian Alps
Travel guide to then main Ski resorts of the Italian Alps.
Guide to accommodation, apres ski, activities and
mountain and travel information.
I,m on an Italia kick right now as I prepare
for our up-coming trip to Rome (God willing of course ).
So I will be posting things Italian for a while.
Ski the Italian Alps — During the Olympics! - Winter Travel ...
When the Olympics come to town, they tend to drive away most recreational skiers,
often for the entire season.
Italia - itenerario
In gita con i prof
Il turismo scolastico è diventato un nuovissimo modo di conoscere il mondo attraverso iniziative che pongono l'attenzione...
di Iaia Pedemonte
Saturday, November 5, 2005
WINTER IN VENICE
By TED GEATROS
In this new, exclusive guide, we make the most of 48 hours in the world's desirable destinations.Native Canadian artist Rebecca Belmore's new work, Fountain, created for the Canadian Pavilion at this year's Venice Biennale, was a film projected through falling water onto an irregular white rock wall. Belmore's eerie installation depicted a cold, grey winter day, not unlike one during a typical Venetian winter. Ironically, the effect, in the small, dark pavilion, was all the more powerful because of its stark contrast to the dazzling, warm, late-September day.
Location: Venice; Italy; (from the Globe and Mail)
Saturday, January 7, 2006
A CASTLE TO CALL MY OWN
By SAM BUFALINI
It had been an exhausting day: The eight-hour red-eye from Toronto to Frankfurt hadn't been as bad as we had feared, but the four-hour layover for the flight into Florence had been a killer. Not to mention the adrenaline-spiked, two-hour drive south through rolling Tuscan hills to Anghiari, the walled city we would call home for the next two weeks.
Location: Anghiari; Italy;
DESTINATION: ITALY
Visiting Puglia? Don't forget your pickax
By Ward Lauren
Volunteers from around the world come to the province on Italy's Adriatic coast to help shore up historic
Hey, my Italian teacher is from Puglia.
January 18, 2006
Instant weekend: Barcelona
Time it right, plan it well and this is the city that never disappoints says Harriet Perry - plus more Barcelona below
'Blanket' wireless internet for seven UK cities
Business travellers heading to Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham, Oxford, Cambridge and the London boroughs of Islington, Camden and Kensington will soon find it easier to hook up to a wireless hotspot.
JUST WHAT EVERY BUSINESS TRAVELLER CAN'T LIVE WITHOUTBest travel gadgets of 2006
If Santa didn't bring you the gadget you wanted for Christmas, sell off your unwanted presents on eBay and start saving for these
January 17, 2006
ITALIAN LESSONS
(map from CIA -The World Factbook)
Last night was the first night of my Italian class. 3hours of bombardment. Oh the pain.
I learned that in Italian, as with French, nouns are all masculine of feminine nouns tend to end in 'o' or 'e' (singular) or 'i' ( plural), and feminine nouns end in 'a' or 'e' ( singular ) or 'e' or 'i' ( plural ). Pretty simple, right? Ha!
masculine articles are 'Il' and 'Lo' ( singular ) and 'I' and 'Gli' ( plural ),
while feminine articles are 'La' ( singular ) and 'Le' ( plural ).
I also learned that the Italian alphabet has only 21 letters. There is no 'j','k','w','x', or 'y'.
As with French, there are formal and familiar or informal forms of just about everything. Unless you are addressing young people (giovani) or close friends or family, you use the formal form. For example "Ciao" is the informal greeting, and "Buon giorno" or "Buona sera" are formal ie 'good morning' or 'good evening'.
Etcera, etcera, for 3 hours. Mind overload; mind grid lock; panic; acceptance; homework even. Memorize vocabulary, greetings, alphabet, numbers to 'millions'.Can I do this? Do I want to do this? Why not. Yes,Yes,Yes!
COLISEUM OF ROME
There are many interesting 'tidbits' of information about the Roman Coliseum on this site.
For example:
Spectatorssometimes became part of the Coliseum showAlthough the typical Coliseum of Rome combatants were trained gladiators, convicted criminals and prisoners of war, occasionally glory-seeking individuals volunteered to fight. Often they overrated their skills and suffered the consequences..At least one emperor ordered his guards to toss unsuspecting spectators into the arena, for various reasons. The victim may have previously angered the emperor. Or, the victim may have been a complete stranger but the emperor disliked the way he was behaving in the Coliseum of Rome. Sometimes the emperor's motive was simply to amuse himself by randomly selecting a spectator to meet his death in the arena
http://www.hillmanwonders.com/coliseum-of-rome-tidbits.htm
There are many interesting 'tidbits' of information about the Roman Coliseum on this site.
For example:
Spectatorssometimes became part of the Coliseum showAlthough the typical Coliseum of Rome combatants were trained gladiators, convicted criminals and prisoners of war, occasionally glory-seeking individuals volunteered to fight. Often they overrated their skills and suffered the consequences..At least one emperor ordered his guards to toss unsuspecting spectators into the arena, for various reasons. The victim may have previously angered the emperor. Or, the victim may have been a complete stranger but the emperor disliked the way he was behaving in the Coliseum of Rome. Sometimes the emperor's motive was simply to amuse himself by randomly selecting a spectator to meet his death in the arena
http://www.hillmanwonders.com/coliseum-of-rome-tidbits.htm
January 16, 2006
TWO WEEKS IN ROMEWe are in the early planning stages of a 2 week visit to
Rome. We were in Rome for 1 day on a Med. Cruise,
just long enough to realize that there is much ,much
more to Rome than we saw that day.
I am currently exploring the major tourist sites in the
city, accommodations- especially what part of the city
to stay in to get the best and easiest access to most of
the thing we want to visit. Our experience, last year, in
Paris, showed us that location is everything. So...
where to stay?
FORUM ROMANUM
(FROM www.aviewoncities.com)
Until 509 BC, when Rome became a republic, the city was reigned by an Etruscan dynasty of Tarquin Kings. They built a sewer, the 'Cloaca Maxima', to drain water from the marshlands of the valley between the Palatine, Capitol and Esquiline hills to the Tiber river. Ever since, the area was the center of activity in Rome. It was the site of the first forum. Here, triumphal processions took place, elections were held and the Senate assembled.
Today, the forum known as the Forum Romanum can look like a disorderly collection of ruins to the uninitiated, but with some imagination you can see the Roman empire come back to life at this site. Remains of many buildings from different periods are visible; the forum was littered with temples, basilicas and triumphal arches.
Three triumphal arches were built on the forum. They were used by emperors to commemorate their victories. The first one, constructed by Augustus, does not exist anymore. The Arch of Titus, built in AD 81 AD commemorates the victory in the Jewish War. It is located at the Via Sacra on the eastern side of the forum. At the other end of the forum, near the capitoline hill is the Arch of Septimius Severus. It was built in AD 203 to commemorate the victory over the Parthians.
The Curia was the location where the senate assembled. The original Curia was built by the third king of Rome. It burnt down four times, first in 80 BC but it was rebuilt each time. The current building was constructed in AD 283 by Diocletius. The Curia could seat up to 200 senators.
The first Temple of Saturn was built in 497 BC The current ruins date from 42 BC. The temple was used as a treasury. It also housed the banners of the legions and the senatorial decrees.
Only three pillars remain of the Temple of Castor and Pollux. The original temple was built in 484 BC, the current ruins date from its last reconstruction in 6 A.D. The temple was built by the roman dictator Postumius who vowed to build the temple if his army would beat the Tarquin Kings who previously ruled Rome. According to the legend, Castor and Pollux, mythological twin brothers, helped the Roman army to victory and announced the victory at the forum.
The Temple of Antoninus and Faustina was built in AD 141 AD by emperor Antoninus to honor his deceased wife Faustina. In the 11th century the temple was converted into a church. The church was rebuilt in 1601.
In 54 BC Julius Caesar started construction of the Basilica Julia, a building used as the seat of the centumviri, a court of civil jurisdiction where magistrates held tribunals. The large building, 101m long and 49m wide, was destroyed by fire in 9 BC but rebuilt again seven years later. After the fall of Rome the basilica was sacked. Not much remains of it today but you can still clearly see the floor plan.
Remains of several other temples and basilicas can be found at the forum romanum, among them the Basilica of Constantine & Maxentius, the Basilica Aemilia, the Temple of Romulus, the Temple of Vesta and the House of the Vestal virgins.
TREVI FOUNTAIN ROME (FROM www.aviewoncities.com)
The Fontana di Trevi or Trevi Fountain is the most famous and arguably the most beautiful fountain in all of Rome. This impressive monument dominates the small Trevi square located in the Quirinale district.The Trevi fountain is at the ending part of the Aqua Virgo, an aqueduct constructed in 19 BC. It brings water all the way from the Salone Springs (approx 20km from Rome) and supplies the fountains in the historic center of Rome with water.In 1732, Pope Clement XII commissioned Nicola Salvi to create a large fountain at the Trevi Square. A previous undertaking to build the fountain after a design by Bernini was halted a century earlier after the death of Pope Urban VIII. Salvi based his theatrical masterpiece on this design. Construction of the monumental baroque fountain was finally completed in 1762.The central figure of the fountain, in front of a large niche, is Neptune, god of the sea. He is riding a chariot in the shape of a shell, pulled by two sea horses. Each sea horse is guided by a Triton. One of the horses is calm and obedient, the other one restive. They symbolize the fluctuating moods of the sea.On the left hand side of Neptune is a statue representing Abundance, the statue on the right represents Salubrity. Above the sculptures are bas-reliefs, one of them shows Agrippa, the girl after whom the aqueduct was named.The water at the bottom of the fountain represents the sea. Legend has it you will return to Rome if you throw a coin into the water. You should toss it over your shoulder with your back to the fountain.
January 13, 2006
(From the Lonely Planet Guide )
Rome
The sheer imperial scale of Rome is sure to knock you out.
At a Glance
Fast Facts
It's hard to say what you'll find most breathtaking about the eternal city - the arrogant opulence of the Vatican, the timelessness of the Forum, the top speed of a Fiat Bambino, the millions of cats in the Colosseum, trying to cross a major intersection, or the bill for your latte.
Make like the locals and souse your senses in the glut of pleasures the city has to offer, from the grandiose thrill of feeling centuries of turbulent history under your feet to the small but potent intoxication of eating chestnut gelati on a hot day.
When To Go
The main tourist season starts at Easter and runs until October; peak periods are in spring and autumn, when the tour buses pour in and tourists are herded around like cattle. Numerous outdoor festivals and concerts and the fact that Romans desert the city for the beaches and mountains, which means very light traffic and a less-crowded city centre, makes summer almost worth the heat. If you do visit in summer, try to hit the sights early, take a long lunch and a nap, and then head out again around 18:00 to take advantage of the cooler evening. Winters are usually mild with few tourists and some fun events around Christmas time.
Some ideas for a walking tour in Rome with private guide
The Heart Of Ancient Rome
Route: Piazza Venezia, Via dei Fori Imperiali, Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, Piazza del Campidoglio, Tarpeian Rock, Santa Maria della Consolazione, Circus Maximus, Piazza della Bocca della Verità, Via del Velabro
Papal Rome
Route: Ponte Sisto, Piazza Farnese, Via Giulia, Campo de' Fiori, Palazzo della Cancelleria, Piazza Navona, Castel Sant'Angelo, Basilica of St. Peter
The Trident And Baroque Rome
Route: Piazza del Popolo, Via del Babuino, Via Margutta, Piazza di Spagna, Via Veneto, Piazza Barberini, Fountain of Trevi
The Place Of Democracy
Route: Quirinal, Palazzo della Consulta, Palazzo Chigi, Palazzo di Montecitorio, Palazzo Madama - Campidoglio
From Piazza Del Campidoglio To Piazza Venezia
Route: Piazza del Campidoglio, Palatine, Foro Romano, Colosseum, Imperial Forums, Piazza Venezia
From Piazza Di Spagna To Piazza Del Popolo
Route: Piazza di Spagna, Fountain of Trevi, Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, Piazza del Popolo
From Piazza Campo Dei Fiori To Piazza Della Rotonda
Route: Piazza Campo dei Fiori, Piazza Farnese, Piazza Navona, Pantheon
From Piazza San Pietro To Castel Sant'angelo
Route: Piazza San Pietro, Castel Sant'Angelo
Sacred Rome
Route: Santa Maria Maggiore, San Giovanni in Laterano, San Pietro, San Paolo fuori le Mura
Archeological Rome
Route: Imperial Forums, Palatine, Colosseum, Arch of Constantine
Rome And The Fashion
Route: Piazza del Popolo, Pincio, Via del Corso, Via Condotti, Piazza di Spagna, Piazza Mignanelli, Via Frattina, Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina
The Park Of The Museums
Route: Galleria Borghese, Zoological Gardens, Rectory Museum, National Gallery of Modern Art, Etruscan Museum
January 12, 2006
Tuscany with my wild bunch
Jill Crawshaw, her husband, her two 20-something sons and their mates share a villa - and survive
Try a lesser known Tuscan trail
Where the crowds head to the southeast after arriving in Pisa, Robin Young goes northwest
The quick villa fix
Short break doesn't have to equal city break: why not bag a Tuscan farmhouse for the weekend
The lakes' finest villa, Mussolini's gilded cage
Lake Garda’s finest villa was a prison to Italy’s dictator, but it’s sheer inspiration to Robert Ryan
Soak up life on the Italian lakes
Maggiore, Como and Garda suit all tastes, from sublime relaxation to theme parks, says Rob Ryan
The serene landscapes of Umbria and Tuscany fly past Rachael Jolley's window on a leisurely train journey from Paris to Rome
Rome, Venice, Naples, Florence and more in our Cities section
Italy without the rip-offsHigh prices across Italy are driving tourists away, but there's value in Puglia, the Abruzzo and Lazio, says Michael Pauls
January 10, 2006
. one Canada
. public health care
. independent country, not a US state
. no Iraq war
. no to NRA
. no to right-wing extremism and the religous far right
MY ONLY ELECTION POST!
January 09, 2006
Curacao pleasant alternative Doug EnglishWhile I've been turned off by some of the Caribbean's most popular sun spots, I found myself really liking Curacao -- (pronounced cure-a-sow), deep in the Caribbean just off the coast of Venezuela -- when I visited last month for the first time.
The death of the guidebook?
Publishers are reporting huge demand for their newly launched 'podcasts' - audio guides to foreign destinations which you download from the internet onto your iPod or MP3 player.
Next Chance is 2024 or Risk Bird Flu in Turkey
Shadow chasers
It may be the shortest once-in-a-lifetime show you'll ever see: The March 29 solar eclipse — the most accessible for decades to come — will draw thousands of travellers to North Africa and Turkey for a few minutes of totality
FULL STORY
January 08, 2006
Hey, Lisa is in France for 4 months. Am I envious or what?!!
January 07, 2006
WINTER OLYMPICS CITY BEING TRANSFORMEDTurin in transition
Jan. 7, 2006. 01:00 AM
Turin, Italy—Giuseppe Cannatelli looks out from his restaurant, the Taverna Fiorentina on the Via Palazzo di Città, and imagines hordes of tourists, all with empty stomachs and full wallets.
Just the facts
Jan. 7, 2006. 01:00 AM
The easiest way to get to Turin is through Milan's Malpensa Airport. Alitalia Airlines has direct flights from Pearson International to Malpensa six days a week (no flights on Wednesdays). For information or bookings visit www.alitalia.com or call 905-673-2442.
WHEN BOOKING AN "ALL INCLUSIVE" HOLIDAY YOU HAD BETTER HAVE 'ALL' CLEARLY DEFINED OR YOU MIGHT BE DISAPPOINTED
When `inclusive' isn't
Jan. 7, 2006. 01:00 AM
NEGRIL, JAMAICA—Dipping into the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, not your wallet, is what makes all-inclusive escapes so appealing.
January 06, 2006
The Sonoran Desert:As in Spain, Resort Development Threatens the Shrinking Wilderness
An Obvious Choice for a Tourist Resort
Untamed but for how much longer?
By Susan Spano (LATimes )
A string of Sonoran villages on the Gulf of California may soon become prime Mexican tourist spots. For now, wildlife and the old ways flourish in a place where desert and sea meet.
Some Excellent Do's and Don't for Travelling
Fear not frog leg soup, and other tips
By Janet Eastman (LATimes)
COLLEGE-AGE Americans grew up watching CNN and extreme sports. Because of this, they travel differently from other generations. For them, no spot is too foreign, no act too outrageous. The world is their big play yard.
If New Brunswick had 500 rivers it could be Panama - well not really.
Water is Panama's liquid gold.
Panama carving niche with Canadians
Some tourism promoters spout more bull than facts. But the guy addressing a room full of visiting Canadian travel agents wasn't exaggerating when he declared that Panama "is more than a canal."
IRON-FREE CLOTHES - WHEN WE TRAVEL MY WIFE ALWAYS WANTS TO PACK AN IRON IN HER SUITCASE. IT ISNOT NECESSARILY NECESSARY!!!
Travel clothes go for test drive
Which of the following do you suppose men least like to do:
( Doug English London Free Press )
January 05, 2006
'SMILE ON YOUR BROTHER..." HE MAY BE SHARING YOUR BEACH TOWEL ON A SPANISH BEACHCheek by towel: Spain's beaches feel the squeeze
Two-thirds of Spanish beach resorts studied by the country's Exceltur hoteliers' organisation are no longer able to provide more than the EU-recommended minimum of six square metres per sunbather, a new report shows.
Alaskan King Crabs in Europe
"As delicous as they are UGLY! "
Monster crabs up to 6ft wide are invading Europe. Armed with a jar of mayonnaise, Stephen Bleach heads to Norway to do battle
What would a pub with no beer do?
From no beer to own beer
Supplies of the liquid amber are assured at the legendary Pub With No Beer - it now has its own brewery! more
INSPIRING!
SYDNEY MORNING HERALD TRAVEL PICKS FOR 2006
New Year's revelations
Where will you be in 2006? Here are our picks for the spots to watch. more
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