Blog: Discover Italy

The Nobile Contrada del Nicchio has won the Palio di Siena Horse Race of August 18, 2026 with Jockey Giovanni Atzeni, known as Tittia, riding the horse Anda e Bola. Tittia previously won the July 2, 2026 Palio earning himself his fourth “cappotto” of his career. The race scheduled for August 16th was postponed twice due to inclement weather. Nicchio has not won a Palio in twenty-eight years with their last victory on August 16, 1998. Tittia managed to erase the longest wait among the …

When shopping for coffee beans for my espresso machine, I am often confused. I always buy “Espresso Roast” but than I wondered what classifies an espresso roast. Turns out – there is no such thing as an “espresso roast”. According to Cooper’s Cask Coffee, roasters will use the term “espresso roast” to inform consumers that these beans are suitable for the espresso grinding and brewing process which will deliver a rich, bold flavor. However, “ …

For centuries, the small Umbrian hill town of Deruta, Italy, has been celebrated for producing some of the world's most beautiful hand-painted ceramics. Walk through Deruta today and you will still find ceramic workshops where artisans transform simple pieces of earthenware into brilliantly colored plates, bowls, platters, vases and decorative objects. Many of the techniques—and even some of the designs—have roots stretching back hundreds of years. Known particularly for its maiolica …

First held in 1656, The Palio di Siena, otherwise known as "Il Palio", is one of the oldest and most famous horse races in the world held twice a year on July 2 and August 16. Each race is a battle between ten of Siena’s 17 contrade (neighborhoods) who battle it out on the town circle “Piazza del Campo”. Lasting only 90 seconds, Il Palio is famous for its intense rivalry to see who will reign supreme and bring home the prize, the coveted Drappellone. Winning Contrada for I …

The Nobile Contrada dell'Aquila (Aquila) won the Palio di Siena Horse Race July 2, 2026, which took place on, Friday, July 3, after being postponed due to inclement weather. The Contrada’s horse Diodora was rode by Jockey Giovanni Atzeni, known as Tittia, who also won the July Palio last year for Contrada Oca.  There was no stopping Aquila in this race as they immediately took the lead and led the race until the finish. Behind the pair of Tittia and Diodoro,  Civetta tried to clo …

The Raffaellesco pattern, renowned for its central motif of the benevolent dragon, surrounded by intricate floral arabesques in a bright color palette of yellow, blue and green, is one of the most famous and enduring styles of Italian Deruta ceramics. Originating in the 16th-century, the Raffaellesco decoration takes its name and inspiration from the “grotesque” style of the famous Renaissance painter Raffaello Sanzio, otherwise known as Raphael. In Italian “grotesque” is …

This summer, if you are in Italy during June 28-July 2nd or August 12-16th, a trip to Siena to witness The Palio di Siena is a must-do experience.  The Palio di Siena is a historic horse race that takes place twice a year in the town square (Piazzo del Campo) in the gorgeous hilltop town of Siena. Yes, horses race smack dab in the middle of this medieval town! For over 400 years, the Palio di Siena has been running to commemorate the Blessed Virgin Mary. The race features 10 horses and ride …

Hand-painted Italian pottery is made to be enjoyed, but proper care can help preserve its beautiful colors and glazed finish for many years. Traditional Italian ceramics, including Deruta pottery and other Italian maiolica, are generally made from earthenware and require slightly different care than porcelain or stoneware. Can Italian pottery go in the dishwasher? Can it be used in the microwave? What causes crazing? And how should you remove coffee or food stains without damaging the glaze? In …

What is it about Italian Carrara marble that makes it so special? Carrara marble is quarried in Tuscany, in the Apuan Alps region. It is known for its distinctive white or blue-grey background with soft, feathery grey veining. This natural stone has been used for centuries in art and architecture due to its beauty and durability.  Carrara's marble quarries have a history spanning over two millennia, with large-scale exploitation beginning in the 1st century AD under the Roman …

I don’t know about you, but I am absolutely in love with Lemons. I love anything with lemons on it – dresses, blouses, t-shirts, towels, rugs, wall décor, hand soap, tablecloths, dishes, Italian pottery. I even have a Lemon phone case for my iPhone. My children roll their eyes every time I spot something at the store with lemons on it. So, you can only imagine how I am on cloud nine every time I go to the Amalfi Coast. If you have never been to the Amalfi Coast, I strongly sug …