Publisher's Synopsis
Italy. The name sparks images of gondolas, the Trevi Fountain, and Michelangelo's David. Indeed, travelers who visit only Venice, Rome, and Florence will find plenty to hold their attention-but they will also miss out on so much more of what Bella Italia has to offer . . .
Bursting with gorgeous photographs and abundant travel information, this book is a showcase of 60 of Italy's off-the-beaten-path towns and villages-some of which are only a short drive from the more popular tourist spots. Ranging in size and brimming with charm, these destinations feature historic town centers, quaint stores, villages atop rocky cliffs, castles, and streets bustling with restaurants.
This comprehensive tribute spotlights the wonders of Italy, from breathtaking art and ancient sites to opulent cathedrals and local marketplaces. Not to be overlooked are the stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights found throughout the storied boot-shaped land.
A trip to Italy is already on the bucket list for many travelers, and this book is sure to inspire even more Italian adventures-whether real or daydreamed.
Spotlighting:
Northern Italy
Glurns - The Proud Town in the Mountains
Aosta - The Wild and Romantic Mountain Resort
Orta San Giulio - Hidden in the Mountains
Como - The Small Town by a Picturesque Lakeside
Bassano del Grappa - The High-Proof Delight
Aquileia - The Mighty Bishop's See
Brescia - The World Heritage Town in a Prime Location
Treviso - Mainland Venice in Miniature
Torcello - The Dreamy Island
Turin - The Cool Classic Town
Pavia - Spiritual Greatness and Simple Beauty
Mantua - The Favorite of the House of Gonzaga
Montagnana - The Walled-In Wonder
Parma - Something for the Eyes, Ears and the Palate
Ferrara - Emilia-Romagna for Romantics
Pomposa - The Hidden Abbey
Genoa - The By-Passed Metropolis
Bologna - The Great Unknown
Ravenna - The Imperial City
Triora - A Village Idyll in Liguria's Mountains
Central Italy
Orsigna - The Elective Home of Tiziano Terzani
La Verna - A Place for Holy Legends
Urbino - Treasure Trove in The Marches
Monteriggioni - The Round Miracle
Gubbio - Strolling through the Middle Ages
San Galgano - Mysterious Middle Ages
Giardino Spoerri - A Garden Full of Ideas
Spoleto - A Festival Makes History
Pitigliano - The Jerusalem of Italy
Orvieto - A First-Class Destination
Civita di Bagnoregio - A Village in a Top Location
Bomarzo - A Fantastical Spot in the Country
Tuscania - Lazio's Bright North
Tarquinia - A Cemetery with Adjacent Small Town
Caprarola - A Mannerist Manifesto
San Clemente -The National Monument
Rome Underground
Palestrina - Built Within a Temple
Ostia Antica - Pompeii Vibes
Ninfa - Visiting a Magic Garden
Southern Italy
Caserta - The Largest Castle in the World
Trani - Cathedral by the Sea
Naples - Italy's Most Fascinating City
Herculaneum - Pompeii in Miniature
Paestum - An Exquisite Doric Temple
Matera - A Cozy Cave System
Martina Franca - A Stylish Old Town
Lecce - The Bastion of Architecture
Otranto - Apulia's Magical South
Diamante - The Perfect Seaside Resort
Tharros - The Anchorage of Antiquity
Barumini - World Heritage Site in the Country
Stromboli - A Great Island Spectacle
Palermo - The Underestimated Town
Monreale - Dipped in Gold
Cefalù - A Charming Old Town by the Sea
Agrigent - A Classic of Antiquity by the Sea
Piazza Armerina - A Villa Causes a Sensation
Syracuse - From Poorhouse to the Precious City
Noto - Risen from the Ashes
