10 Favorite Reads on Italy this week: May 30, 2014

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 – Vernazza in the Cinque Terre

This week’s roundup includes stunning beaches, fascinating underground sites, list of places to eat in Naples and more.

Culture and Travel

The marble quarries of Versilia: Cervaiole and the Fondazione Henraux by ArtTrav – While many are familiar with the quintessential rolling hills of Tuscany, few have heard of Versilia and the history of the marble quarry.

Porto Selvaggio, Italy: Secret Seaside by Telegraph Travel – We love Puglia and if you are looking for a place to getaway this summer, you might want to check out Porto Selvaggio, “a place made for sunbathers”.

Alley fight: Towns bicker over title of Italy’s narrowest passage by CNN – A different kind of street fight that involves several towns laying claim to this hotly contested title.

What Lies Below: The Orvieto Underground by Brigolante – I’ve always said that what lies beneath is as equally fascinating and if you are visiting Orvieto, take the opportunity to head underground to visit its caves.

Cinque Terre, Lerici, Portovenere Boat / Ferry Schedules – Spring by A Path to Lunch – Handy guide if you plan on exploring the Ligurian coastline.

Matera; Ancient Rock Churches, Modern Art and More by Wired2theWorld – Matera is amazing in photos yet even more surreal in person. This article gives you a glimpse of this town.

Swim like a local: Catania’s rocky beaches by Lost in Sicilia – Summer is just around the corner and here’s a list of beaches on the Scogliera or la Riva dei Ciclope (Cyclopes Riveria).

Food and Drinks

Talking about Caterina de’ Medici: onion soup recipe by Tuscanycious – The renowned French onion soup could have its origins from Florence. Read more to find out and enjoy the recipe.

Eating in Naples by Gillian’s Lists – Take notes before your trip to Naples and you won’t be disappointed.

Life in Italy

Pranzo in Italy by The Everywhereist – Let me just add that not every lunch (pranzo) is a long, elaborate affair but when it’s for a special occasion it can be one that last for several hours if not longer.

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