Favorite Reads on Italy This Week: Apr 18

Favorite Reads on Italy (FRI) is a weekly roundup published on Fridays featuring interesting articles, fascinating experiences, and handy resources that I’ve come across that week.

Postcard from Italy: View of Mt Vesuvius from Naples

This week’s roundup includes fascinating discoveries in Rome, a wonderful initiative in Naples, Easter celebrations in Florence and more.

Culture and Travel

Rome ‘ages’ 200 years as archaeologists discover new remains by The Telegraph – More discoveries in Rome and this time, they reveal that Rome is older than originally thought.

Ancient Rome ‘larger than first thought’ by AOL Travel UK – And not only did they discover that Rome is older but larger too!

Italian islands – the Traveller’s Guide to idyllic outposts by The Independent – Plenty of islands in Italy for you to choose from: some idyllic and others catering to the rich and famous such as Capri. If you are planning a trip to Capri, here are more handy tips.

Under The Streets Of Naples, A Way Out For Local Kids by NPR – A wonderful article and initiative that helps kids from crime families an alternative way of life.

In Venice, learning to row your own boat by The Washington Post – While most think of riding a gondola when in Venice, how about rowing one yourself. Here are more unique experiences in Venice to check out.

Food and Drinks

In Lecce, Making Magic With Humble Ingredients by NYTimes –  Lecce is a fabulous place to enjoy a culinary experience and you’ll be surprised by incredible number of dishes you can cook up with just simple ingredients.

Spring-Summer 2014 Fab Wine-Food Festivals in Umbria by Discovering Umbria – If you are visiting Italy in spring or summer, don’t miss out on the many wine and food festivals. A great way to experience Italy like a local.

Cheap Eats Guide to Venice by BudgetTraveller – Heading to Venice? It has the reputation of being an expensive destination but that doesn’t mean you can find good and affordable places to eat. Check out these places and you won’t be disappointed!

Life in Italy

Locals I love by Girl in Florence – Here’s my shameless plug! I was thrilled to be part of this series by Georgette and hope to have given you a glimpse of life in Rome, which sometimes can be less romantic.

Easter in Florence, Italy by ArtViva Italy Blog – While Rome often takes center stage for Easter celebrations, here’s what’s going on in Florence.

Amarcord – A Fellini Feast by Mozzarella Mamma – Beautiful recap of the spectacular performance of the Amarcord balley yesterday evening. If you are in Rome until April 20th, it’s worth getting tickets. Absolutely amazing!

Have you come across any great reads or resources on Italy this week? Share them with us in the comments below.