Italian Style
Italian Style · 14 April 2025
The other day, while watching the popular cooking show "Sempre Mezzogiorno" on RAI, I discovered Diego Cusano's food art. He is an eclectic illustrator and artist of international fame. In 2014, he published the illustrated book “Food Art & Fantasy,” which features an unusual menu for fantasy gourmets, consisting of 35 illustrations. His innovative artwork showcases some of Italy’s most famous DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) ingredients, serving as a fabulous promotion of Made in Italy.
Italian Style · 09 April 2025
The palazzo often referred to as Sophia Loren's £5 million Venice residence was actually only used by her during the 1955 Venice Film Festival. The historic Palazzo Tron a San Beneto, located in San Marco with views of the Rialto Bridge, was formerly home to the influential Tron family. Nicolò Tron, the 68th Doge of Venice (1471-1473), likely commissioned its reconstruction, adding two stories. In 2018, the European Heritage Project acquired portions of the palazzo from the Franchetti family.
Italian Style · 23 March 2025
The Rai Uno series Mare Fuori, which premiered in 2020, has become a beloved show in Italy. It portrays the poignant stories of young inmates at the fictional Juvenile Penal Institute of Naples, inspired by Nisida prison. The fifth season began with six episodes released on March 12, with more to come on March 26. This season features a partially renewed cast, with some characters, like Chiattillo and Ciro Ricci, exiting, while new characters have captured the audience's hearts.
Italian Style · 13 March 2025
2025 promises to be a rich year for lovers of Italian fiction and TV series. Rai 1 in particular is preparing to offer a schedule full of emotions, suspense and top-level productions. Ranging from classic stories, contemporary dramas and breathtaking thrillers. Such as Imma Tataranni set in Matera; Leopardi - Il poeta dell'infinito set in Naples; Un passo dal cielo - set in the Dolomites; Mina Settembre - set in Naples as is Commissario Ricciardi.
Italian Style · 11 March 2025
The main festival celebrated in Italy in March is "Festa di San Giuseppe" (Saint Joseph's Day), which occurs on March 19th. This day is regarded as the Italian equivalent of Father's Day. It is celebrated with special treats such as "zeppole" and, in some regions, bonfires.
Italian Style · 08 March 2025
The mimosa flower symbolizes spring's arrival, blooming early in the year as one of the first flowers in Italy. It represents renewal and new beginnings. The tradition of giving mimosa flowers on March 8th began in Italy after World War II when it was adopted by Italian feminists for the Festa della Donna. Throughout Italy, mimosa bouquets are widely available, and women often wear yellow. Many events and restaurants offer special promotions and dishes to celebrate the day. A great celebration!
Italian Style · 25 February 2025
The Leopard is an upcoming television series set to premiere on the streaming service Netflix on March 5, 2025. It is based on the classic novel of the same name by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa. Set against the backdrop of the unification of Italy in the 1860s, the series revolves around a Sicilian prince who confronts the clash between his family's long-standing privilege and the revolutionary changes sweeping the country.
Italian Style · 13 February 2025
La Perla is renowned for its luxurious lingerie. Founded by Ada Masotti in 1954 in Bologna, the brand's name was inspired by a jeweler's case lined with red velvet. Masotti's craftsmanship and focus on women's needs turned a small boutique into a global brand, now also offering swimwear, fragrance, and accessories.
Italian Style · 11 February 2025
Today marks the beginning of the week-long Festival di Sanremo 2025, an Italian music festival. There are 29 acts competing for a chance to win the festival and potentially represent Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. The show started with a tribute to Ezio Bosso’s "Following a Bird," rearranged by the orchestra, featuring his words: “Music, like life, is made together.” The first evening of San Remo was co-hosted by Antonella Clerici and Gerry Scotti in conjunction with Carlo Conti.
Italian Style · 04 February 2025
February is associated with Valentine’s Day, featuring the romantic Bacio Perugina chocolate, created in 1922 by Luisa Spagnoli. Originally called “Cazzotto” due to its fist-like shape, it combines gianduia chocolate, hazelnuts, and a whole nut, all covered in dark chocolate. Spagnoli's partner, Giovanni Buitoni, proposed the name “Bacio” for a more appealing touch. The iconic design of lovers was crafted by Federico Seneca, inspired by Hayez's "The Kiss."