mercoledì 30 giugno 2010

THE ROAD di John Hillcoat

THE ROAD, un film sull’Apocalisse.

Onestamente non mi aspettavo molto da questo film. Già avevo tentato di leggere il libro e lo avevo appunto trovato abbastanza impossibile da leggere.

Anche il film non si eleva al di sopra della media dei film di questo periodo. Forse dopo aver visto THE ROAD ho in parte rivalutato LA NOSTRA VITA di Daniele Lucchetti che avevo un po’ frettolosamente liquidato come un film sulla cultura oggi imperante del “tamarro” in Italia, riconoscendogli tuttavia una buona fattura filmica.

THE ROAD è un film sull’ Apocalisse appunto. Da Apocalisse i colori. Da Apocalisse gli scenari. Un mondo veramente senza speranza, in preda alla furia di un post-capitalismo che è completamente collassato con la gioia di un Socialismo la cui ideologia aveva dovuto chinare la testa molto prima.

Che distingue questo film da altri del genere? Da de THE BOOK OF ELI (CODICE GENESI, in italiano) di Albert Hughes, per esempio?

Direi il finale. Solo il finale, che è la cosa migliore del film. Laddove finalmente senti qualcosa, laddove finalmente ti identifichi nella metafora del padre e del figlio lungo strada della vita.

Come dice Charlie Kaufman: “Il finale! Ci vuole un grande finale! Un finale bello salva un film!!”.

Non credo che il finale di THE ROAD salverà tutto il film, ma almeno ti fa partecipare ad un film dove la noia, nonostante il sangue il vomito ed il cannibalismo e alcune scena da film horror perdura intensamente.
Attendiamo con attesa fervida (almeno per la stagione cinematografica) il settembre prossimo venturo.


F.U.

Informacion: Cinque Terre Maravillas de la naturaleza

Cinque Terre es una zona geografica unica en el mundo. Tiene una longitud de 18 kilometros de costa rocosa, en la parte inferior esta llena de bahias y finalmente coronada por una cadena de montañas paralela a la costa. Miles de kilometros de viñas y olivos decoran este paisaje unico. Decenas de senderos y caminos, como una gran tela de araña, envuelven todo el territorio, dando la oportunidad al visitante de contemplar unas vistas impresionantes desde lugares unicos.

Cinco pueblos son los que conforman este lugar, declarado en 1997 por la UNESCO como Patrimonio Mundial de la Humanidad, son: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza y Monterosso. Sitios historicos y monumentos que cuentan la historia mucho mejor que en los libros.

Un lugar donde lo antiguo y oscuro se une al esfuerzo de decenas de generaciones de las gentes del lugar que han conservado esta zona y lo han convertido en lo que es actualmente, un lugar tranquilo donde escapar de la rutina y el estres, de aislarse de los problemas y disfrutar de unas vistas impresionantes, a la vez que puede bañarse o simplemente tomar un poco de sol.

Una de las caracteristicas de esta region es el aprovechamiento del espacio, las decenas de viñas y olivos situados en los acantilados desde hace cientos de años hacen que el paisaje se muestre mas dañado de lo que pueda parecer.

La fauna y flora tambien son espectaculares, con una gran variedad de arboles, plantas y animales de muchas especies. El clima es tipicamente mediterraneo, con veranos de bastante calor y primaveras y otoños de clima templado.

La cocina tipica de la zona tambien es un atractivo añadido, con el pescado como plato principal, podemos encontrarnos hortalizas, verduras, frutas etc. Y es que aqui esta muy arraigada la dieta mediterranea.
Una tierra por ver, una maravilla de la naturaleza.

martedì 29 giugno 2010

UN CAFFE' CON: Aldo direttore di sala del caffè Gilli

Aldo è ormai l’icona del centro di Firenze, di piazza della Repubblica. Direttore di sala del Caffè Gilli da ormai dodici anni. Ma da sempre direi: perché da sempre me lo ricordo al caffè Gilli.. Ormai per me sarebbe difficile immaginare il caffè Gilli senza Aldo.

Lo vedi sempre camminare con il suo modo flemmatico fra il dehors ed il bar. Sempre a controllare il servizio, sempre in contatto con i clienti. Alto. Distinto. Bel portamento. Con la sua barbetta a punta e le lunghe basette stile dandy. Un personaggio senza dubbio.

Aldo vive nel centro di Firenze gran parte della sua giornata. Ed è per questo sicuramente uno che sa misurare bene la temperatura alla città. Quello che passa, quello che cambia. Gli umori della città. Le chiacchiere. Ha, direi, la misura viva di questa città.

Aldo ci dice che ha visto in un certo senso decadere il centro storico. Dalla chiusura dei cinema del centro all’ avvento della ZTL. Oggi dei tanti cinema che vi erano rimane solo il cinema Odeon, proprio a due passi dal Gilli fra l’altro e la ZTL, che ha definitivamente ingessato la città estraniandola dalla gente fiorentina e relegandola ai soli turisti.

Il Gilli, che esiste dal 1733 (originariamente in via Calzaiuoli) rappresenta il cuore della città ed è l’osservatorio privilegiato di questa decadenza di vita reale.
Il Gilli comunque continua ad essere il Caffè più importante della città, per la qualità della sua pasticceria e cioccolateria. Per le sue famose praline che Aldo raccomanda assolutamente di provare. Per una varietà di distillati (oltre mille) che questo antico caffè può offrire ai propri clienti. Per la sua ristorazione a trecentosessanta gradi. Per l’orario di apertura: le 7:30. A Firenze pochi bar del centro sono aperti a quell’ora.

I clienti, ci dice Aldo, sono divenuti più competenti e per questo anche più esigenti. Il cliente sa quello che vuole e pretende un buon servizio. In questo il caffè Gilli è sicuramente uno dei luoghi che può ancora offrire i miglior confort.
Aldo vede un futuro per questo caffè che da un lontano passato continua a rappresentare il miglior presente per questa città, e vi aspetta per offrirvi il miglior caffè della città.

Informacion: Tradiciones en Florencia

En Florencia existen tradiciones desde hace cientos de anos, las cuales siguen intactas a pesar del paso del tiempo. Presentamos algunas de ellas:

- Calcio in costume: A pesar de llamarse Calcio (futbol) no guarda ninguna semejanza con el futbol actual. Fue inventada, muy posiblemente, por los soldados romanos. En epocas de paz necesitaban un entretenimiento y para que no perdieran fuerza, ya que se ejercita tanto brazos como piernas. Como pelota se utilizaba una bola de las mismas caracteristicas de una bola de canon.

Quiza el encuentro de calcio in costume mas popular ocurrio el 17 de febrero de 1530, en Piazza Santa Croce, cuando se jugo un encuentro entre los florentinos contra los soldados imperiales mandados por el papa Clemente VII, no fue un simple juego sino una demostracion de libertad por parte de los florentinos. A mitad del partido una bola de canon del ejercito imperial volo sobre el campo y fue a parar donde estaban situados el publico, por suerte no dano a nadie. No existen datos de quien gano el partido aunque poco importo ya que poco despues la ciudad capitulo y volvio el ejercito imperial bajo el mando de la familia Médici.

Actualmente se reproduce aquel partido anualmente en la festividad de San Giovanni.
El partido siempre empieza con un grito de Viva Firenze! Es una hora de lucha, ataques, refriegas, golpes y enredos continuos. Una experiencia que si tiene la oportunidad de verla, no se lo pierda.

Para mas informacion: http://www.globeit.it/caf/

- Lo Scoppio del Carro: Cada ano, en el domingo de Pascua se celebra la Explosion del Carro. Se conmemora que el espiritu santo fue encendido usando las astillas de piedra del santo sepulcro. Antiguamente se hacia para encender los fuegos de todos los hogares.

Actualmente, un gran carro con guirnaldas, del siglo XVIII, es transportado por bueyes blancos desde Porta al Prato hasta la plaza de la catedral donde se guarda hasta el ano proximo. El carro esta conectado al altar de la catedral por un alambre de acero. Al mediodia, momento del Gloria in Excelsis el Cardenal Arzobispo enciende un cohete con forma de paloma con el fuego santo obtenido de las astillas antiguas. El fuego del cohete corre por el alambre hasta llegar al carro, que esta lleno de fuegos artificiales y llena todo de alegria.

Si quieres fotos del evento: http://www.vps.it/propart/sdc_f.htm
O si prefieres ver videos: http://www.vps.it/propart/sdc_v.htm

- Rificolona: Ona, Ona, Ona,
O che bella Rificolona,
La mia l'é coi fiocchi,
La tua l'é coi pidocchi!

(Ona, ona, ona,
¡Qué hermosa Rificolona,
la mía es con las hojuelas,
y la tuya es con los piojos!)

Esta cancion la cantan los ninos florentinos la primera semana de septiembre, llevando unas linternas de carton piedra juntada a los extremos de palillos llamados rificolones.

Existen dos posibles origenes de esta singular fiesta:

- Cuando entraron las tropas florentinas en la ciudad de Siena el 2 de agosto de 1555, cuando los soldados juntaron las linternas sobre los extremos de sus astas.

- El mercado de otono, sobre el 7 de septiembre, era el dia de mercado mas importantes para los granjeros, su mejor oportunidad para ganar el dinero antes de que llegara el invierno. Para llegar a tiempo los granjeros de las afueras tenian que levantarse antes que la gente de la ciudad, y utilizaban unas linternas parecidas a las actuales para iluminar el camino.

El mercado todavia existe: en Piazza de Santissima Annunziata, los dias 6 y 7 de septiembre. La fiesta de la Rificolona perdura hasta altas horas de la manana con desfiles encabezados por el cardenal.

- Festa di San Giovanni: El 24 de junio se celebra San Juan, el patron de la ciudad de Florencia, es cuando se juega el partido de Calcio in Costume. A las 22 horas aproximadamente hay una exhibicion de fuegos artificiales, el mejor sitio para contemplarlos es en el puente de Santa Trinita, con el Ponte Vecchio en primer plano, todo dentro de un contexto colorido y espectacular.

Otros eventos:
- Festa del Grillo en Cascine
- La Fiorita en Piazza della Signoria

Personajes famosos de Florencia: Dante Alighieri

Dante Alighieri (Florencia, 29 mayo aprox. 1265 - Ravena, 14 de septiembre de 1321)
Considerado uno de los escritores mas importantes de Italia y del mundo entero. Famoso por escribir la obra universal La Divina Comedia.

Padre tambien del idioma italiano, dedico su vida enteramente a la politica, hecho que provoco su destierro de su tierra natal y que no pudiera volver nunca mas.

Se caso con Gemma, hija de Messer Manetto Donati en 1291 con la cual tuvo tres hijos: Jacopo, Pietro y Antonia. Aunque su amor platonico fue siempre Beatriz Portinari, a la cual la conocio a la edad de 9 anos y desde ese momento quedo enamorado de ella, aunque no volvio a verla hasta 9 anos despues, a los 18 anos, fue su amor platonico hasta la fecha en que Beatriz murio, a la temprana edad de 24 anos.

Ella fue su musa para algunas de sus obras mas importantes, tales como Vida nueva o la famosa Divina Comedia. A pesar de la muerte de su musa, Dante siguio idealizandola hasta su propia muerte ya que nunca amo a otra mujer.
Escribio varios tratados en latin sobre literatura, politica y filosofia.

La vida y obra de Dante ha tenido una influencia decisiva en la construcción de la identidad italiana y en general en la cultura moderna. Muchos escritores e intelectuales han utilizado y lo siguen haciendo la Divina Comedia y otras obras de Dante como una fuente de inspiración temática, lingüística y expresiva.

Florence, Italy Nominated Top Culture and Sightseeing Destination in the World



Florence, Italy was nominated as the number one culture and sightseeing sestination in the world by Trip Advisor's 2010 Traveler's Choice Best Destinations.

"Everyone’s heard the Doors of Paradise, the Duomo, and Michelangelo’s David are captivating, but in Florence, beauty can sneak up on a traveler unexpectedly. You’ll duck into a random church to escape the heat only to spend two hours staring at an impossibly pure blue in a fresco. Or you’ll consider writing a sonnet about pear gelato. It’s just that kind of place. Don't miss the sunset over the Arno and the famous wines of the Chianti region just south of town." (Trip Advisor)



Top 10 Culture and Sightseeing Destinations in the World
1. Florence, Italy
2. Washington DC, District of Columbia
3. Rome, Italy
4. Paris, France
5. Siem Reap, Cambodia
6. New York City, New York
7. Jerusalem, Israel
8. Venice, Italy
9. Istanbul, Turkey
10. London, United Kingdom

Trip Advisor Article
www.tripadvisor.com/TCDestinations-cCulture-g1

The Florence Newspaper: "Between Art and Life" Andrea Zittel Exhibit

In conjunction with Pitti Uomo fashion week, the Fondazione Pitti Discovery presents Between Art and Life, an exhibit showcasing the works of Andrea Zittel at the Costume Gallery at Pitti Palace in Florence. Curated by Alberto Salvadori, Between Art and Life features the work of one of the most interesting figures on the international contemporary art scene.

Andrea Zittel’s career – she signs her works with A-Z Administrative Service Zittel, an original “brand name” that is also impersonal and a manifesto which reveals her approach to conceiving and producing art. She was born in California where she completed the first part of her education, then she moved to Brooklyn; now she is back in California and lives in the Joshua Tree Desert with her son.

Currently, Andrea is pursuing her artistic research and applying it to daily life: the materials, limits and meanings of living space, clothing and household objects, the body’s resistance in situations where time cannot be measured, and the procedures we use to define and evaluate quality. It involves strict personal discipline and both psychological and biological explorations of our existence.

The exhibiton will show at Galleria del Costume, Sale della Meridiana from June 18th until July 16th 2010.

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.29.11.14

The Florence Newspaper: Guido Colucci Exhibition at the SACI School of American Art

The SACI School of American Art will host the Guido Colucci exhibition from June 28 - July 30, 2010. The Exhibition will feature 18 etchings printed from the original plates of the Tuscan artist Guido Colucci (1877-1949) and other memorabilia. The subjects chosen depict the life and architecture of Florence in the first half of the 20th century. The artist’s family, friends, and collectors, as well as the distinguished authors of the monographic catalog published for this exhibition, will be present. The exhibit debuts Monday, June 28 at 6:30pm.

Guido Colucci (1877-1949) was a master draftsman, designer, and painter who studied with Giovanni Fattori, the renowned Macchiaioli artist. Colucci's works are in many important public and private collections, including the Gabinetto di Disegni e Stampe of the Uffizi and the Museum of Bastia, Corsica. This limited edition was printed by the artist and master printer Gary Lissa expressly for this exhibition. Unframed prints from this commemorative edition may be purchased. A full color catalog is also available. All proceeds go to the SACI Scholarship Fund.

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.28.13.46

Informacion: Heladerias florentinas

El helado, uno de los mayores placeres en la epoca estival, en Florencia es casi un arte. Muchos de los turistas que vienen anualmente no solo visitan los grandes monumentos de la ciudad sino que ademas hacen la ruta del helado, una costumbre cada vez mas popular ya que en Florencia hacen uno de los mejores helados de todo el pais y incluso de los mejores del mundo, y es que es la mayor ciudad con mas heladerias por metro cuadrado.

Las mejor consideradas y mejores sabores son:

- Carabè (Via Rocasoli, 60) Creada por dos hermanos sicilianos y proviniendo de una familia de heladeros, esta considerada una de las mejores por su mezcla de helado con granizado. Hay gente que viene de todo el mundo a probar especialmente los deliciosos helados que preparan alli.

- Vivoli (Via Isola delle Stinche, 7) Fundada en 1930, es considerada una de las mejores del pais, por su gran variedad de sabores y por su estilo unico a la hora de crear sus helados. Hasta aqui han llegado gente importante especialmente para probar sus famosos helados, como por ejemplo el ex-presidente de los EEUU, Bill Clinton.

- Perche'no! (Via dei Tavolini, 9r) Inaugurada al inicio de la Segunda Guerra Mundial, eso hizo que se hiciera tan popular, ya que daba una pequena alegria a la gente que sufria los horrores de la guerra. Es muy popular tanto por su situacion (cerca de la Piazza della Signoria) como por la gran cantidad de sabores que tiene.

- Festival del Gelato (Via del Corso, 75) Ubicada en el centro de la ciudad, es una de las heladerias mas famosas, tanto por su decoracion, muy original, como por sus helados caseros creados con las mejores materias primeras.

- Grom (Via del Campanile angolo Via delle Oche) Una de las heladerias mas de moda. Creada en el 2003 por dos amigos en Turin, se ha ido expandiendo por toda Italia y abriendo nuevos mercados por el mundo. Es famosa por cultivar sus propios productos de manera ecologica.

- Neri (Via dei Neri, 20-22r) Una heladeria muy popular, muy bien situada, la gente hace colas para poder probar los diferentes sabores de los que dispone la heladeria.

Hay muchisimas mas, estas quiza son las que tienen mas renombre, pero yo animo a probar todos los sabores de diferentes lugares porque hay muchisimos y todos deliciosos.

lunedì 28 giugno 2010

The Florence Newspaper: Overpaid Parliament with Low Productivity Rankings

In almost every democratic state, elected representatives are giving fixed salaries across the board, regardless of who clocks in more hours. The Italian government has taken much criticism on the topic of their overpaid parliament and lack of participation within the European Union. In comparison to other European Union countries, the Italian parliament earns almost a whole fifty percent more in earnings then surrounding European Union parliaments. When one Italian parliament member makes 12,000 Euros a month, a Spanish parliament member would need to work a full four months to even compare to that figure. Does this mean that Italian parliament members are working four times as hard? It seems that it is scarcely the case.

While Italian parliament members are criticized for their wealthy pockets, they are also constantly on the pressing stone about their dreadful attendance ratings. Five of the ten European Union Parliament Members ranked worst are Italians. These rankings are on the basis of attendance at plenary sessions and committee meetings, along with number of reports, and resolutions they produce. To fabricate a number comparing European Union Parliament Members is a very difficult task due to the outrage of parliament members on the matter. Flavien Deltort, an assistant to an Italian parliament member created a website to help the public assess their parliament members; the website was shut down within a week due to an overload of complaints coming from European Union Members of Parliament. This defense clearly supports the fact that behind closed doors, not much may be going on.

Written by Emily Marullo
Politics Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.23.15.54

The Florence Newspaper: Tourists Charged for Buying Fake Designer Bags

Before you buy that fake designer bag, consider that you could be charged a fee that could cost more than what you paid for the bag. Italian officials are cracking down on tourists who are purchase counterfeit bags from street vendors. Recently a tourist in Jesolo was charged around $1,200 for buying a counterfeit bag. Police said the 65 year old woman purchased the designer bag for around 7 Euros. It was later explained to her that is Italian law to punish both the seller and purchaser of counterfeit goods. Many people would argue that it is not fair to charge an ill-informed tourist a fee about something they knew nothing about. However, the Italian law is not something to be taken lightly. Italian officials have strict regulations on counterfeit goods because they are controlled by crime gangs. The city’s counselor for security, Andrea Bocco added that “buying illegal goods only support exploiting illegal immigrants.” In the months to come, Italian officials will continue to enforce their laws concerning counterfeit goods.

Written by Jade Kennedy
Fashion Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.23.17.27

The Florence Newspaper: European Union to Discuss Nutella Ban

Food is a symbolic representation of culture within a nation. In Italy Nutella is more than a symbol but rather an iconic figure. The chocolate hazelnut spread can be seen in window displays, famous movie scenes, and in song lyrics. Now, the legendary Nutella must come face to face with the European Union to fight for its traditional existence.

The threat to ban Nutella is only in the beginning stages, based off of stricter European Union food labeling regulations. The new rules recently approved by European Union Parliament require all processed foods to have fat, sugar, and salt contents visibly printed on the front of their packaging. The goal is to bold startling nutrition facts about common foods to consumers, a compromise from previous proposals on making these foods bear a red warning label, to help stimulate healthier eating habits.

Comparatively, other European countries have taken stricter measures on healthy nutrition campaigns within their own countries. Denmark and Austria have made trans-fats illegal. Britain, Norway, and Sweden passed a bill banning junk food commercials at certain hours of the day. Romania is in the later stages of increasing taxes on an array of fatty foods. Beating poor nutrition and obesity has become a worldwide obsession. All of these countries, including Italy, have universal health care. Therefore the government has a greater interest in the welfare of its citizens as it is directly correlated with the countries money.

Legislation has only been approved at the early draft stages. Still, food produces have displayed unkind feelings toward the possibility of changing labels in fear of affects on their sales of products. Though this is a broad proposal across Europe, Italians have taken a fancy on arguing the bill based solely on their love for Nutella.

The future of Nutella, and its traditional packaging will be pressed forward in the European Union needing both a victory vote in the European Council, and then an overall approval by the European Union’s executive board. Until then the European Union will face opposition from a newly created “Hands off Nutella” committee, headed by Francesco Paolo Fluci, vice president at Ferrero Spa and former diplomat, and supported by a local governor, and the Italian people.

A Short History of Nutella

The founder of Nutella, Pietro Ferrero, has been selling Nutella since 1964. It was originally devised for a recipe for cake for the lower class. At the time cocoa beans were being heavily taxed due to short supplies after rationing during World War II. Ferrero, a pastry shop owner in Piedmont, Italy (an area known for its production of hazelnut) mixed hazelnut paste with chocolate to create an alternative to expensive desserts. Originally called Pasta Gianduja, this early form was sold in solid blocks but later replaced with a creamy version called Supercrema. Once Ferrero’s son Michele made plans to promote Supercrema across Europe he renamed it Nutella. Since its early stages Nutella has become a trademark icon to Italian culture and a rave across Europe.

Written by Emily Marullo
Politics Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.24.17.22

The Florence Newspaper: How to Dress Like an Italian

Walking down the street, it is easy to identify who is Italian and who is not simply by looking at what they wear. What is it that makes everyone else stand out so noticeably from the casually chic Italians? In search of the answer to this question, I paid a visit to a few of the top fashion houses in Italy and asked them their opinions on the differences between Italian and American fashion. Here is a list of what it takes, in their opinion, to dress like a true Italian:

1. Wear neutrals.

The first thing pointed out by every single fashion expert I talked to was color schemes; Italians can always be spotted wearing neutrals, black being their basic go-to. This means getting rid of your bright, floral dresses and opting for beige, white, or black pieces instead. If you want to add a hint of color, choose to have instead only one accent piece, such as a red bag or colorful pair of jeans.

2. Exchange comfort for class.

Americans are classified as having a sporty and casual style, choosing outfits based upon their level of comfort. Italians, on the other hand, choose their outfits to accentuate their bodies, wearing tighter, more form-fitting pieces. For you men out there, this means switching out those t-shirts and cargo shorts for a nice pair of jeans, tailored shirt, and suit jacket; women, this means getting rid of those loose cotton tank tops, dresses, and jean shorts and choosing instead a nice skirt, form-fitting top, and a pair of heels. And the number one piece of advice—get rid of those flip-flops.

3. For your basics, invest in luxury pieces.

You do not need to worry about having to purchase an entirely new designer wardrobe in order to achieve that coveted Italian style. Instead, focus on investing in the basics. The top two recommended pieces to splurge on? Shoes and bags, hands-down. Take a stroll down Via Tournabuoni to find stores that carry amazing leather pieces to fill your closet—and perhaps empty your bank account—with.

4. Mix casual with formal.

Americans can be seen in one of two extremes—either all-out in a suit and tie, or bumming-out in jeans and a t-shirt. However, Italians are known to mix these two together in order to give their style a unique flair. Try by starting off with a more casual outfit and then mixing in a few formal pieces, such as adding a blazer to your regular shirt and jeans. Your look will instantly become casually chic.

By following these helpful hints, you will be able to blend in with the Italians instead of sticking out as simply yet another tourist. Let it be noted, however, that even if you follow these tips, the large camera dangling around your neck and the giant map you are carrying may still give your true identity away, anyway.

Written by Sarah Vizachero
Fashion Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.25.15.35

The Florence Newspaper: Style Seekers Flock to the City as Vintage Selection Returns

It's time to dig out those shoulder pads as Stazione Leopolda welcomes the return of Vintage Selection, the bi-annual vintage clothing, accessories and design fair. From 6-10 July, vintage professionals, collectors and enthusiasts will be scouring the stalls in search of that elusive retro treasure. With over 30 exhibitors and visitor numbers for previous fairs reaching over 13000, Vintage Selection 16 looks set to be a highlight in every style hunter's calender.

Following the success of Vintage Selection 15's dual sections, this edition will once again be divided into two distinct collections, Luxury and Sportswear. And for the gambler in you, the Happy Kilo area offers visitors the chance to purchase clothes and accessories by weight. This edition will also feature a Remake section, an area dedicated to customised and remade vintage clothing.

Also on display will be 'Vintage di Famiglia', a collection of over 1,700 of the public's family photos from 1950-1980 which maps Italian history through fashion portraits.

'The great thing about vintage is that it's unique', says Marco from Jules e Jim, a vintage store in the heart of Florence that will be selling at the fair. 'These days everyone looks the same. Wearing vintage is more exclusive.'

And for the vintage novice, the fair is the perfect place to start exploring, Marco says. 'You can see a loads different shops selling things from different eras and at different prices all under one roof.'

Marco's top tip for successful vintage shopping? 'Buy something that fits you perfectly and you'll always wear it. And you can't go looking for something in particular, it's impossible to find things that way. You need to just look around and see what you like.'

So whether you're buying, browsing or people watching, Vintage Selection 16 looks set to deliver the stylish goods.

Vintage Selection is produced by Stazione Leopolda SRL in cooperation with ANGELO. Open 6-10 July, 10:00-22:00. Admission fee €5. To receive a €2 discount and for more information, visit www.stazione-leopolda.com.

Written by Jennifer Mason
Fashion Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.27.18.31

The Florence Newspaper: Caravaggio e Caravaggeschi Exhibit at the Uffizi and Palatine Galleries

Born as the Renaissance reached its conclusion in the late 16th century, Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio created a place for himself in the artistic world through his highly emotional paintings and despite his apparently volatile behavior. (He was known to have an eccentric personality and spent the last four years of his life avoiding arrest for a murder committed during a street brawl in Rome.) His artistic legacy stems not only from the horrific, yet mesmerizing, face of Medusa, or the equally repulsive yet beautiful representation of the triumph of the fearless Judith over Holofernes, but from his exploration of a stylistic movement which changed the course of art history - chiaroscuro. Through this technique, using the contrasts between dark and light, shadow and color to express the emotions within his masterpieces, he produced impassioned and naturalistic works. In commemoration of the 400th anniversary of Caravaggio's death, Florence celebrates the artist's life achievements and the movement he created through three exhibits running concurrently at the Uffizi Gallery, at the Palatine Gallery at the Pitti Palace, and at the Villa Bardini. The exhibits run until October 17, 2010 and include examples of his most famous as well as more obscure works, alongside those of his followers, the caravaggeschi. The former include his Medusa and Bacchus, and the latter range from Bartolomeo Manfredi to the Dutch artists Gerard van Honthorst and Theodore Rombouts. As a 400 hundred-year-old mystery revolving around his final resting place at Porto Ercole draws to a close, an exhibition highlighting his masterpieces and his following is only fitting. For access to all three exhibits, the Caravaggio Card is available for 25 Euro.

Written by Jessica Card
Art History Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Caravaggio e Caravaggeschi a Firenze
May 22 - October 10 2010
Uffizi Gallery and Palatine Gallery (Pitti Palace)
Tuesday - Sunday, 8:15 a.m - 6:50 p.m
Uffizi Gallery 10 Euro
Palatine Gallery 12 Euro

Caravaggio e la Modernita
I Dipinti della Fondazione Roberto Longhi
Villa Bardini (Costa San Giorgio 6)
May 22 - October 17 2010
Tuesday - Sunday, 10:00 a.m - 6:00 p.m
6 Euro

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.23.15.20

The Florence Newspaper: Rome and Florence at War over Statue of David

As you marvle at the masterpieces of the Renaissance abundant throughout Florence, you probably never stop to contemplate the question: who owns these great works of art? But this question is a very pertinent one to Florentines at the moment. Who owns the statue of David and the estimated 10 million Euros he brings in per year? This very issue is under consideration by the State government in Rome and discussions are underway between the national government and the commune. The question, raised in response to the State's request for a larger share of the revenue the famed statue brings in to the Galleria dell'Accademia, can be viewed as part of a larger issue concerning who owns the cultural heritage and artwork throughout Italy, and, similarly, who should be responsible for the maintenance and management of the objects. What the matter really comes down to, though, is who should be on the receiving end of the income?

So who are the contendors in this match-up? On one side of the ring we have the mayor of Florence, Matteo Renzi, and Cristina Acidini, superintendent of the Polo Museale Fiorentino, the organization that manages the state museums in Florence. On the other, we have Sandro Bondi, minister of the Beni or cultural heritage and art of Italy. Acidini and Renzi claim unequivocal ownership of the statue created by a Florentine for Florentines some five hundred years ago, and, therefore, control of the funds the statue brings in from the flood of tourists who flock to catch a glimpse of Il gigante. The David alone reportedly brings in approximately 12% of the total tourist revenue for the city. Let's stop to think about this: start with the almost one million paying visitors who went to the Accademia last year, multiplied by the 6.50 euro price paid for the entrance ticket, which does not take into account the 4 euro reservation fee most visitors pay. If only half of the 1 million visitors pay the reservation fee, a low-end estimate, the Galleria dell'Accademia makes a grand total of 8.5 million per year - at least. And this amount still does not account for the countless David souvenirs sold in Florence - anything from statuettes to men's underwear - which also constitues a part of the tourist revenue the statue draws in for both the Accademia and the city itself.

Now to the prize in question: Michelangelo's nude masterpiece. For almost three hundred years, David stood in all his glory in front of the Palazzo Vecchio in the Piazza della Signoria, the paramount symbol of Florence's republican spirit. Here, in the palace then known as the Palazzo dei Priori, lived the priors of the city and here the basic civic functions of the republic took place. In 1873, to protect David's perfection from the elements, he was transported into the Gallerie dell'Accademia for preservation purposes. Carved from a 16-foot slab of white marble over a period of three years and completed in 1504 when Michelangelo was a mere 29 years old, the David represented the patriotism of Michelangelo and his fellow Florentines and the triumph of the commune over domination and tyranny from outside threats. Originally meant to stand atop the roof of the Duomo, David's oddly disproportional hands and head are less the effect of any anatomical miscalculation on Michelangelo's part, as proof of the artist's profound understanding of sculpture and perspective. Few would dare contest the beauty and perfection of this 14-foot statue.

But what can be disputed, and which currently stands trial, is the proprietà, or ownership, of the statue. However, a twelve-page document dating from November 9, 1871, between the Regio Governo and the Municipio di Firenze, attests to the commune's ownership of the Palazzo Vecchio, the Piazza della Signoria, and the adjoining objects of art, including Michelangelo's masterpiece. Hard to argue against original documentation. Except for when the government has spent money on preserving, maintaining, and protecting the object in question. After cutting state funds for the maintenance of the cultural sites and artifacts of Italy, such as the David, the government now asks for a larger cut of the revenue these objects bring in, to which Florence has responded with a resounding, No, the David is ours.

Florentine legislators have submitted two proposals in Parliament to handle the situation in Florence, hoping to gain a special law regulating the relationship between city and state as well as the ownership of the statue. As discussions proceed between Florence and the national government, the parties involved recognize the potential applicability of the solution to the larger issue pertinent to all of Italy, of the ownership of and responsibilty for Italy's history. In addition to Florence, the legislation could affect other cities with a strong cultural heritage and may affect all state museums using government money while pocketing the proceeds.

Regardless of which side prevails, the David will remain safely where he stands in the Galleria dell'Accademia. His revenue, though, may no longer be contained within the walls of Michelangelo's beloved city, which mighty David continues to watch over and protect against outside intruders.

Written by Jessica Card
Art History Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.23.15.49

The Florence Newspaper: Wiretapping Bill Passed Amid Protests

The third vote on the proposed wiretapping bill is being pressed forward in the lower house and predicted to pass within the next few days. The new bill, already passed by the executive council and senate, would limit the use of wiretapping by the government. Three limitations would be set forth to regulate wiretapping. First a placed capstone on the maximum amount of days able to wiretap set at seventy-five days, secondly to make it necessary to have a warrant for wiretapping approved by three judges not solely one, and lastly require special authorization to listen in on conversations conducted by priests. Along with these increased limitations, any recorded wiretapping transcripts would remain in the hands of the Italian government until a judicial trial is conducted on the matter. The only exception to the bill would be any wiretapping that involves mafia, or terrorist crimes.

Journalists and prosecutors across Italy are outraged on this proposed bill, nicknaming it “the gag law.” Freedom of press has become a universal standard throughout international law. The Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe, along with other European organizations, are pressuring Italian government to rethink the amendment. Journalists have threatened to conduct a full scale news blackout on July 9th, the anticipated date of the bill’s passage, illustrating the projected affects of the bill. Without access to wiretapping transcripts, the people of Italy would be less informed on current national issues and a new level of trust would be put into the hands of the Italian government which many oppose. The distancing between governmental investigations and the lack of communication towards the Italian people would be a counter attack on the current Italian democracy.

Berlusconi’s government argues the fundamental right to individual’s privacy and the necessity of passing the bill to protect those rights. Many individuals suffer from trial by the media rather than judicial trials conducted because of twisted dialogue that journalists grasp onto. Berlusconi feels it is time to put an end to this.

Counter arguments against Berlusconi suggest that the bill is “ad personam,” or tailored to Berlusconi’s personal needs. Two members of Berlusconi’s cabinet, Minster for Economic Development and Head of Civil Protection, have left office due to scandals discovered by wiretapping transcripts in the past twelve months. Most recently reported on Berlusconi’s private life is the infamous sex scandal with minors. Senator, Paolo Guzzanti, claims President Giorgio Napolitano bribed newspapers not to publish transcripts that prove Berlusconi guilty of involvement with prostitution. Perhaps Berlusconi’s passion for protection of individual privacy is really a mask of fear for his one private life.

Written by Emily Marullo
Politics Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.23.16.03

The Florence Newspaper: Who Are the Florentine Masters of Today?

Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Fra Angelico… The list of artistic geniuses Florence has produced appears endless after a stroll through the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia, the Bargello, or any of Florence’s numerous museums. Replicas of world-famous statues decorate piazzas throughout the city, and street signs boast the surnames of Florentine masters.

In a city exuding such rich art history, the question, Who are the Florentine artists of today? inevitably emerges. Pursuing the question led me straight to EX3, Center of Contemporary Art of Florence.

Taking its name from the word “exhibition” and its location in District 3, EX3 serves as Florence’s showcase for contemporary artists, national and international. Director Sergio Tossi collaborates with Lorenzo Giusti and Arabella Natalini to bring a contemporary art component previously missing in Florence.

Recently presented at EX3 was the work of Olivo Barbieri, winner of the idee indetto dall’agenzia Toscana Promozione for il padiglione TOSCANA all’Expo Universale di Shanghai. TUSCANY in 6 Pieces is a large video-installation offering a virtual tour through the Tuscan landscape, in which Renaissance-type themes of man’s relationship with nature manifest themselves. Barbieri explores current issues of new technology and environmental protection, energy development and sustainable development in man’s modification of his environment. The stark contrast of innovation and tradition, so evident in European cities, also provides an important theme in Barbieri’s work.

There are also education movements within Florence that hope to harness the city’s past and cultivate a new art scene. The Palazzi is one such school promoting international higher education that offers innovative learning strategies to its students. It recognizes Florence’s unique advantage of such a rich historical past and hopes to build on it by nurturing the creative genius in the current generation. With a highly dedicated and passionate administration and staff, they offer courses in liberal and studio arts, business, fashion design, hospitality management, culinary and wine studies, digital imaging and visual arts, and much more.

So the next time you admire an early Renaissance painting, appreciate it for its beauty as well as for its continuing influence on young artists worldwide. You never know who Florence’s next Michelangelo will be.

Written by Kia Wright
Public Relations Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.25.10.02

The Florence Newspaper: Beware! Ten Italian Laws That You Would Never Know About!

One may assume that, the Italian Parliament Members must be hard at work if they’re receiving a monstrous salary of twelve thousand Euros per month. How is it then that these ridiculous laws were prioritized and put on the agenda before others, and how frequently are they even enforced?

1. In Lucca do not even think about feeding those eager pigeons! You could suffer a hefty fine for feeding the friendly birds.

2. On the beautiful beaches of Eraclea (near Venice), it is illegal to build a sandcastle. It has been suggested that these masterpieces interfere with passerby’s, thus deeming them “obstruction of passage.”

3. You are not allowed to mow your law on the weekend in Forte dei Marmi.

4. Groups of three or more people singing, dancing, drinking, or eating (living life) in the streets of Rome could result in a five hundred Euro fine!

5. It is illegal for Mafia inmates to sing in prison; their melodies suggest they are communicating in code to each other.

6. Cross dressing is illegal. That is a man is not able to wear a skirt without receiving a fine, Scottish or not!

7. In Rome it is very tricky to own a pet goldfish. Keeping a goldfish in a round glass bowl is considered cruel and thus illegal. The ban of goldfish in round glass bowls began in 2005.

8. The Florence padlock fad to illustrate pure romantic dedication to your significant other is not allowed on any public statues.

9. Public display of affection in a car can slap you with a fine of five hundred Euros!

10. In Milan it is required that citizens smile at all times. The only exception is for funerals or visiting patients in hospitals, it is enforced with a one hundred Euro fine.

Written by Emily Marullo
Politics Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.28.14.38

The Florence Newspaper: One Year Anniversary of Devastating Viareggio Train Derailment

June 29th, 2009 marked a day in Tuscan history never to be forgotten. In the seaside resort village of Viareggio, a horrifying train accident killed thirty-two people ranging in age from two to ninety years old. This past week, the government is finally settled disputes over one of the deadliest train accidents in Italian history.

A freight train containing petroleum gas derailed from its tracks, exploding in the back yard of residential homes. The government announced a state of emergency, evacuating 1,000 residents of Viareggio. Remarks by residents exclaim the horrifying explosions right outside their windows that late summer night, the scent of gas, and the visions of flames, haunt them in their sleep.

A year of mourning, and while nothing could replace the lives that were taken that summer night, it is time the government takes responsibility for the event. After harsh criticism by the Tuscan people (he was received 'boo's' during his initial visit to Viareggio), Berlusconi's government is now aiding the relatives of the victims with the amount of ten million Euros. The senate made this announcement earlier this week.

Viareggio has marked the deadliest train accident in the past decade, those also in the rankings for worst accidents include:

*June 1992; Train collision near Turin, six died, thirty-three injured.
*January 1997; Train derailed in Piacerna, eight dead, thirty injured.
*June 2000; Near Parma train collision, five dead, one injured.
*July 2002; Train heading to Venice derailed, eight dead, forty-eigh injured.
*January 2005; Collision between passenger and freight train near Bologna, seventeen dead.

Written by Emily Marullo
Politics Intern for The Florence Newspaper

Original Article
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.28.13.50

Informacion: El aperitivo en Florencia


El aperitivo es una de las costumbres mas arraigadas y populares de la ciudad de Florencia, aunque es bastante comun tambien en el resto de ciudades italianas.

Consiste, para quien no lo conozca, en ir a un bar de copas entre las 6 o 7 hasta las 10 de la noche a tomar una copa o coctel, y por el precio de la consumicion tienes derecho a barra libre de comida.

Es una costumbre muy popular entre la juventud florentina y la gente que viene de fuera ya que ademas de disfrutar de una buena bebida puedes incluso cenar de una manera muy economica.

A continuacion dare una lista de, posiblemente, los mejores sitios para tomar el aperitivo, aunque hay que descubrirlos todos hasta encontrar el mas adecuado.


- Kitsch (Viale Antonio Gramsci, 3r) Un lugar extravagante y fuera de lo comun, ideal para tomar un coctel original en un ambiente intimo y acogedor.

- Moyo (Via del Venci, 23r) Un lugar agradable para tomar una copa despues del trabajo con tus amigos acompanados de un menu delicioso.

- Dolce Vita (Piazza del Carmine) Desde 1985, un local fresco y de un diseno muy moderno, con dos ambientes para disfrutar del aperitivo de una forma totalmente diferente, con musica en directo y con un Dj propio que amenizara sus tardes de verano.

- Zoe Bar (Via dei Renai, 13) Cerca del Arno, es un local economico donde no solo puede ir a tomar el aperitivo sino tambien cenar o simplemente descansar.

- Kilimanjaro Cafè (Via Palazzuolo, 80) Fundado por Giancarlo Antognoni, ex jugador de la Fiorentina y de la Seleccion italiana, es un lugar tranquilo y centrico donde tomar el aperitivo.

- Naima (Via dell' Anguillara, 50/56r) Un lugar tranquilo donde el coctail va acompanado de buena musica jazz y blues, dedicado al saxofonista John Coltrane.

- Gilli (Via Roma, 1r) Fundado en 1733 y ubicado en el corazon de Florencia, tomar una copa le transportara al pasado con una decoracion colonial muy elegante.

- ChiaroScuro (Via del Corso, 36) Un lugar muy agradable donde tomar el aperitivo a pocos minutos del Duomo.

- Golden View Open Bar (Via dei Bardi, 58r) Un lugar exclusivo y muy cool para tomar un aperitivo de una forma diferente, junto con musica jazz en directo.

Hay muchos mas sitios donde disfrutar de una copa, hay que descubrirlos a medida que se conoce la ciudad.

Informazione: Caffè Concerto Paszkowski


Venire per ogni serata diversa da Giugno ad Ottobre organizzati Da Paszkowski

Gli Sharade
Cristian Mini da Notre Dame de Paris
Paolo Golini Show
Sandro e Cinzia

... e tanti altri!

Dal 1846 nel cuore di Firenze
Piazza della Repubblica, 6r - Tel. 055 210236
www.paszkowski.it

Noticias en Espanol: La nueva casa del hereje Galileo · ELPAÍS.com


La nueva casa del hereje Galileo · ELPAÍS.com

Informacion: Vinos de la Toscana

Uno de los productos mas tipicos y de mas calidad de la Toscana es el vino, considerado uno de los mas importantes del mundo.

El vino quiza con mas renombre de la zona es, sin duda, Chianti, localizado entre Florencia y Siena, aunque si se decanta por un vino de esta region, revise la etiqueta, ya que muchos productores compran la uva de otros lugares con el resultado de un vino mas barato y de baja calidad, ha de fijarse que ponga en la etiqueta Chianti classico.

Otra denominacion de origen muy importante es la de Montalcino, aunque mas pequena y exclusiva. Sus vinos son un reflejo de la joya que es esta region, un paisaje lejos de las grandes urbanizaciones, tranquilo y orientado hacia un turismo de lujo.

Tambien nos encontramos con Montepulciano, con unos vinos excelentes llamados Vino Nobile (vinos Nobles) ademas de exquisitos, suelen pasar entre 2 o 3 anos en barriles franceses antes de salir al mercado.

Y la ultima denominacion de origen importante de la Toscana es el Morellino di Scansano, se suelen producir en la zona de la Maremma, al estar tan cerca del mar los vinedos crecen en zonas templadas y eso los hace diferentes al resto. En esa misma zona tambien se produce el vino Sassicaia, uno de los mejores del mundo.

Si tiene la oportunidad de venir a esta preciosa region, no dude en probar uno de estos exquisitos vinos, no se arrepentira.

venerdì 25 giugno 2010

The Florence Newspaper: Museo della Casa di Michelangelo Buonarroti

On first approach, Casa Buonarroti, the home and museum dedicated to one of the most celebrated artists in history, is about as unimposing as the palaces and homes of the great of Florence come. Most tourists are perhaps misled by the name, unsure of the significance of the Buonarroti family, who only produced the mastermind behind the statue of David and the ceiling of the Sistene Chapel, to name only two of Michelangelo's masterpieces. Purchased by Michelangelo's grand-nephew and heir, Leonardo Buonarroti, upon Michelangelo's request, the home passed through the family line until the last Buonarroti passed in the latter half of the 19th century. Inside the humble doors, you will find a small collection of the artist's own work alongside paintings, antique artifacts from Roman and Etruscan times, and sculptures and models collected by the family or donated over the past four centuries. The museum can boast the largest collection of sketches by Michelangelo's own hand, a large majority of which the artist himself burned for fear of being found less than perfect, Unfortunately, for preservation purposes, the museum only exhibits a few at a time. Despite a lack of originals by the museum's namesake, the house holds two of Michelangelo's early carvings, done while still an adolescent in Florence. The Madonna of the Steps and the Battle of the Centaurs date from 1490 and 1492, respectively, and reveal his early fascination with the human body and his attention to detail and emotion. Also by his own hand are a large wooden model of a projected facade for San Lorenzo Church as well as a preparatory model of a river god, dating to the 1520s. Almost every room within the house museum reveals a dedication to the esteemed artist, from the room containing various copies of his portrait, to that depicting scenes throughout Michelangelo's life.

Though a somewhat limited collection for a comparatively steep price (6.50 euros, 4.50 reduced), Casa Buonarroti also currently offers a special exhibit highlighting Pietro da Cortona and baroque art, a period of Florentine art which followed the Renaissance of Michelangelo's time. Though he spent much time in Rome, Pietro Berrettini da Cortona passed an extended period in Florence, from 1637 - 1647, while working on frescoes in the Palazzo Pitti. The exhibit includes his works from this ten year period, as well as other examples of baroque paintings and sculpture, highlighting the change in style that swept from Rome through Florence to the rest of Europe in the 17th century. With paintings, sketches and three-dimensional works on loan from museums across the continent, the exhibit is characterized by a softer style, though still encompassing the brilliant colors characteristic of Renaissance art. His La Vergine col Bambino e Santa Maria is one of many religious depictions by the artist, alongside portraits and sketches.

For anyone but fanatical Michelangelo fans, time may be better spent elsewhere in Florence, but the package as a whole perhaps merits a visit if you have time to spare in Florence.

Written by Jessica Card
Art History Intern at The Florence Newspaper

http://www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.25.11.20

Istituto Europeo: Staff Profile: Fabrizio Ulivieri

Fabrizio Ulivieri
Study Abroad and Internship Coordinator

Fabrizio was born in Montelupo Fiorentino, Italy. He joined Istituto Europeo in 2003 and has held positions as Professor of Italian, Director of the Italian Department, and is currently the institute's Study Abroad and Internship Coordinator. Fabrizio is an Italian writer and critic and has published linguistic articles in the prestigious Journal Studi di grammatica Italiana, printed by the Accademia della Crusca, and in the german Zeitschrif t für italienische Sprache und Literatur. He was an appreciated collaborator for www.ilciclismo.it for which he wrote stories and satiric reports about cycling. He has collaborated with www.ilpolitico.it, where he published articles about the contemporary status of writing literature in Italy. He recently published two books: L'Eterno Ritorno, Akkuaria, and Albert Richter un'aquila tra le svastich and Il ciclismo tedesco tra nazismo ed esoterismo (1919-1939), Bradipolibri.

The Florence Newspaper: Advanced Technologies Confirm Caravaggio's Remains

Human remains have been found on the coast of Monte Aretario, and with 85% certainty scientists claim that they belong to Michelangelo Merisi also known as Caravaggio. “Caravaggio died in Porto Ercole, and must remain here” says Mayor Arturo Cerulli. The northern league wants the remains to be transported to Milan, but Mayor Cerulli thinks otherwise claiming “I would not give them to Milan.” In Italy there is an established practice used when finding human remains: the place of burial is the place of death.

Advanced technology has allowed scientist to conclude that out of the eight possible theories surrounding Caravaggio’s death that Professor Maurizio Marini has the correct one. Professor Marini’s theory suggests that Caravaggio landed in Porto Ercole after fleeing Naples. It is believed that Caravaggio suffered a severe injury and was already ill when he reached the port in Tuscany. Soon after, Caravaggio contracted typhoid after eating contaminated food. Professor Marini’s believes that Caravaggio was taken to the Santa Maria Ausiliatrice hospital where he passed away. Caravaggio was buried in the church of St. Erasmus in 1610. Church records found by Professor Marini have Caravaggio’s death listed as 1609. However, Caravaggio’s official date of death is 1610 the conflicting dates can be explained by the Gregorian calendar which had not yet been introduced in this part of Tuscany. Records have also confirmed that Caravaggio was buried in a smaller cemetery, the Sebastiano cemetery. The Sebastiano cemetery was closed on 1956 and, the remains were then moved to the Rasmus cemetery.

The advanced technologies used to prove Professor Marini’s theory include a variety of methods. Examining the Skeleton using Carbon- 14 dating had allowed scientists to calculate the time period in which Caravaggio lived. A histological examination dates the skeletal remains between the ages of 37 and 45. Caravaggio died at the age of 39 making the age of the remains a match to the painter. Traces of mercury and lead were found in Caravaggio’s bones, which were common components of paint in his time. The committee for the promotion of historical, cultural, and environmental heritage can conclude with confidence that they have found the human remains of Michelangelo Merisi. However, there still remains the question of where the remains shall be left to rest. According to the established practices the remains should be left to rest where they were found and it appears that the mayor is willing to put up a fight.

Written by Shannon Coleman
Anthropology and Culture Intern at The Florence Newspaper

Original Article:
www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.25.12.05

Informacion: De compras por Florencia


Una de las visitas mas imprescindibles en la ciudad de Florencia, a parte de museos y monumentos, es ir de compras. Y es que en una maleta que regresa de un viaje a Florencia no pueden faltar productos tipicos de la region como por ejemplo pasta, quesos, licores tipicos ni aceites.

Si lo que buscas es lujo, visita calles como Via de' Tornabuoni, Via della Vigna Nuova y sus alrededores, donde encontraras marcas como Gucci, Armani, Ferragamo, Prada, Emilio Pucci, Louis Vuitton o Yves Saint Laurent, donde el lujo se combina con el alegre ambiente del mercado de San Lorenzo.

Otra compra tipica de Florencia son la joyas del puente Vecchio, aunque el precio no es muy economico, se pueden encontrar joyas unicas y de gran valor. Si lo que buscas son joyas mas economicas pasate por el barrio de Santo Spirito, donde tambien hay negocios de artesania.

Los que prefieran regalar productos de artesania, el mejor lugar es Via Maggio, con una gran variedad de productos de la zona ademas de antiguedades. Para productos de cuero es acosejable visitar la zona de Santa Croce.

Si no tienes ninguna idea lo mejor es que visites el mercado de San Lorenzo, decenas de paradas llenas de artesanias y souvenirs, todo a buen precio. Situado al lado del mercado central y a 5 min. caminando del Duomo, en Via del canto de Nelli, Via dell Ariento y Via Sant Antonino y abre todos los dias de 9 a 13:30 h.

Si lo que prefieres es regalar alguna delicatessen toscana, tienes que visitar el mercado central. Lleno de productos frescos tales como carne, pescado, quesos flores, jamones, miel, aceite de oliva, setas... Tambien es un buen lugar para descansar y probar algunos de estos productos. Abre de lunes a viernes de 7 a 14 h. y los sabados tambien abre por las tardes.

Si lo que buscas son grandes almacenes visita las siguientes direcciones:
COIN en Via dei Calzauoli 56R y La Rinascente en Piazza della Republica, 1.

Un buen regalo para los gourmets del vino lo encontraran en la zona de Muntalcino.

Y un regalo clasico pero a la vez elegante es el paraguas. El paraguas florentino es de gran calidad y precioso.

Y es que ideas hay miles, en Florencia encontraras todo lo que buscas apto para todos los bolsillos

Información: Alquilar una bicicleta en Florencia


Una de las mejores maneras de visitar la preciosa ciudad de Florencia sin cansarse es con una bicicleta o una scoutter.
He aqui algunos sitios donde poder alquilar una:

SEGWAY AND BIKE RENTAL
Puedes aquilar bicicletas con 3 velocidades Cruiser, y si te cansas de pedalear puedes elegir un segway para el dia entero, o simplemente una hora.
Direccion:
Segway Firenze srl.: Via del Cimatori, 9R Florencia.
Horario:
Lun-Sab:9-13 y 14-18
Precios:
1 hora Adultos - 5€, estudiantes - 3€
Telefonos:
+39 055 239 88 55
Paginas Web:
info@italycruiserbiketours.com
www.italycruiserbiketours.com

FLORENCE BIKE PAGES
Es una pagina no comercial donde podras encontrar informacion donde alquilar, mapas y lugares para visitar.
Pagina Web:
www.florencebikepages.com

TOUR EN BICICLETA POR FLORENCIA
Es una opcion muy interesante hacer un tour de unas 8 personas como maximo, y poder visitar todos los monumentos de la ciudad a bordo de una comoda bicicleta.
Duracion:
2 horas (aprox.)
Precio:
desde 26,10 € por persona
Direccion Web:
www.partner.viator.com/en/4035/tours/Florence/Florence-Bike-Tour/d519-5049BIKE

MILLE E UNA BICI
Servicio ofrecido por el ayuntamiento de Florencia que permite utilizar las bicicletas gratuitamente, solo pagando al mes unos 13€ aprox.
Direccion:
buscar uno de los 17 puntos mas cercano
Telefono:
055 5000 453 - 500 1994
Pagina Web:
www.comune.firenze.it/servizi_pubblici/trasporti/car.gif
ALINARI
Sitio donde podras alquilar bicicletas, scoutters o otras motocicletas
Direccion: Via Guelfa, 85R
Precio:
Bicicletas desde 2,50€ y motocicletas desde 21€
Telefono:
055 280 500
Pagina Web:
www.alinarirental.com

FLORENCE BY BIKE
Otro sitio donde alquilar bicicletas o scoutters.
Direccion: Via S. Zanobi, 120/122R
Precio:
1 hora - 3€ 1 dia - 14,50€
Telefono:
055 488 992
Pagina Web:
www.florencebybike.it

TOUR CON SEGWAY EN FLORENCIA
Una manera muy comoda de realizar un tour por la ciudad es a traves de segways (patinete electrico de 2 ruedas) acompanados por un monitor mientras se escucha un guia audio.
Duracion:
3 horas (aprox.)
Precio:
desde 67,50€ por persona
Pagina Web:
www.partner.viator.com/en/4035/tours/Florence/Florence-Segway-Tour/d519-3092SEGWAY

mercoledì 23 giugno 2010

Noticias en Español: El Thyssen muestra la obra culmen de Ghirlandaio, el "Retrato de Giovanna" - Cultura - Lavanguardia.es


El Thyssen muestra la obra culmen de Ghirlandaio, el "Retrato de Giovanna" - Cultura - Lavanguardia.es

The Florence Newspaper: Pitti Bimbo Fashion Trade Show

The world’s biggest fashion trade show for children and teens will take place at the Fortezza da Basso in Florence from June 24th to June 26th, 2010. This is the only event in the world where you can see the latest trends in children’s clothing. The event is more diverse than ever, and offers fun, functional, and innovative looks. There is everything from sportswear companies such as SportGeneration to independent brands such as New View and EcoEthnic. The avant-garde collections at Apartment and the street couture at Superstreet are also not to be missed. This year there will be 99 new and returning collections. For much information about Pitti Bimbo, visit the website at www.pittimmagine.com.

Written by Jade Kennedy
Fashion Intern at The Florence Newspaper

www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.23.15.56

Noticias en Español: Europa | ocholeguas.com | Entre la Toscana y Umbría>


Europa | ocholeguas.com | Entre la Toscana y Umbría

The Florence Newspaper: Tourism in Tuscany Unaffected by Economic Crisis

“We are a region” claims Christina Ladder, the regional minister for tourism. When the world faces a 4.3% drop in tourism, Tuscany is resilient. With a regional drop of only .7% and national drop of 4.7% the region of Tuscany appears to be unaffected by this crisis. Tuscany holds its strengths in its ability to join art, history, food, wine and landscape into an attractive combination suitable for all tourists.

Tuscany has taken the initiative to raise its competitiveness. Such measures include the use of the web. Exploiting this media has allowed Tuscany to reach new markets overseas including the nations of India and China. With a regional focus on sustainable tourism, Tuscany is making the effort increase quality at its “front doors” including, airports, highway, and information services.

Tourism functions as a business like many nations. A total of 56.6% of all businesses operate in art and business. In late 2009 a total of 26,630 businesses were registered by the tourism sector including services in reception and catering. With a growth in hospitality services there had been a growth in the potential to find work. Numerous residents of Tuscany, especially young people and women have benefited from this increase in business. There is a positive outlook of employment for the residents of Tuscany.

Tuscany has learned to take full advantage of the economic gains introduced by foreigners. Economic gains have been obtained by both the nation and the people of the nation by way of new businesses and opportunities for growth. With its strengths and initiative Tuscany has managed to swerve this crisis, and avoid the economic deficit which other counties have suffered.

Written by Shannon Coleman
Anthropology and Culture Intern at The Florence Newspaper

www.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.23.14.36

Información: La Noche de San Juan

Esta noche se celebra la noche de San Juan, una festividad muy antigua en la que se celebra la llegada del verano.
Su rito principal es encender hogueras, su finalidad es para "dar mas fuerza al sol" ya que ha pasado unos meses muy débil.
Se celebra en diferentes paises del mundo en fechas diferentes y de maneras muy diversas:

ESPANA: (noche del 23 al 24 de junio) se considera la noche mas magica del ano, y hay muchas tradiciones muy diversas dependiendo de cada comunidad autonoma.
Las mas conocidas son:

- Andalucia: se corre delante de un toro, el cual le han colocado anteriormente fuegos artificiales en los cuernos, como culto al fuego.
- Cantabria: se tiene la antigua costumbre de saltar sobre las hogueras, o pisar las cenizas, aun candentes.
- Cataluna: A parte de quemar todo lo antiguo e inservible, se come un dulce tipico de la zona, la coca, parecida en forma a la pizza acompanada de cava.
- Valencia: Se crean "ninots" parecidos a los de las Fallas de Valencia, verdaderas obras de arte, y se queman.

PORTUGAL: (noche del 23 al 24 de junio) Fogueiras de São João - Es una tradicion crear un globo casero y introducir los deseos dentro del mismo y hacerlo volar por la noche. Es un espectaculo precioso ver cientos de globos con los deseos de tanta gente.

NORUEGA: (noche del 23 al 24 de junio) Jonsok

DINAMARCA: (noche del 23 al 24 de junio) Sankthanks - Es una celebracion donde se junta la danza y el fuego.

SUECIA: (noche del 23 al 24 de junio) Midsommar - Se celebra con un baile alrededor de un poste, comiendo arenques y patatas.

FINLANDIA: (noche del 21 al 22 de junio) Juhannus - Es una festividad muy especial ya que ademas de celebrar la llegada del verano es el dia de la bandera de Finlandia.

REINO UNIDO: (noche del 23 al 24 de junio) Midsummer - En Cornwall empieza la fiesta el viernes mas cercano a la festividad y culmina el mismo dia de san Juan (24 de junio)

Casi en cada pais de Europa de celebra de algun modo la llegada del verano, ya sea con fuego, fuegos artificiales, etc.
En Sudamerica tambien se celebra, aunque de una manera diferente, ya que para ellos terminan los dias de sol y comienza el frio.
Existen muchas creencias acerca de lo magica que es la noche de San Juan, algunas de ellas, las mas curiosas, son:
- En el momento exacto en el que el sol sale, todas las fuentes y arroyos tienen poderes curativos.
- Meterse desnudo y de espaldas al mar, mirando a la luna, hara que se tenga mucha suerte.
- Los solteros/as que al comenzar el dia 24 se asomen a su ventana, encontraran el amor de su vida.
- Quien madrugue el 24 no tendra sueno en todo el ano.

Y es que existen muchas tradiciones muy diferentes en cada parte del mundo aunque lo mas importante es disfrutar, ya que es la noche mas magica y cualquier cosa puede ocurrir.

martedì 22 giugno 2010

Information: Blue Flag Awarded Beaches in Tuscany Region

The Blue Flag is a voluntary eco-label awarded to over 3450 beaches and marinas in 41 countries across Europe, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean.

The Blue Flag Programme is owned and run by the independent non-profit organisation Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

The Blue Flag works towards sustainable development at beaches/marinas through strict criteria dealing with water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management, and safety and other services.

Italy currently has 226 beaches and 61 marinas awarded by the International Blue Flag Jury; 33 of the 226 beaches and 4 of the 61 marinas are located in the Tuscany region.

Blue Flag Beaches in Tuscany:

Bibbona
Marina di Bibbona
Camaiore
Lido
Castagneto Carducci
Marina di Castagneto Carducci
Castiglion della Pescaia
Rocchette/Roccamare
Levante/Tombolo
Punta Ala (Pian dell'Alma, Civinini, Piastrone)
Cecina
Le Gorette
Marina di Cecina
Follonica
Follonica
Forte dei Marmi
Forte dei Marmi
Grosseto
Marina di Grosseto
Principina a Mare
Livorno
Antignano
Quercianella
Monte Argentario
Acqua Dolce/Spiaggia Lunga
Cala Piccola
Feniglia
Porto Ercole
Porto Santo Stefano (Cantoniera; Moletto; Caletta)
Santa Liberata (Bagni Domiziano; Soda; Pozzarello)
Pietrasanta
Marina di Pietrasanta
Piombino
Parco Naturale della Sterpaia
Pisa
Calambrone
Marina di Pisa
Tirrenia
Rosignano Marittimo
Castiglioncello (Quercetano - Portovecchio)
Vada (Pietrabianca - Mazzanta)
San Vincenzo
Centro Principessa
Conchiglia
Rimigliano
Viareggio
Marina di Levante
Marina di Ponente
Marina di Torre del Lago Puccini

Blue Flag Marinas in Tuscany:

Marina Marciana
Marina Marciana Marina
Porto Ercole
Marina Cala Galera
Castiglione della Pescaia
Marina di Punta Ala
Grosseto
Marina di San Rocco

Istituto Europeo: Staff: Cristina Meneses

Mi nombre es Cristina Meneses, tengo 25 anos, naci en Ribera del Fresno, un pequeno pueblo de la provincia de Badajoz, actualmente vivo en Barcelona. He venido a Florencia a aprender tanto idiomas como la cultura italianas gracias a una beca Erasmus. Tengo el titulo de Administrativa, cursado en Espana y actualmente estoy cursando el CFGS de Comercio Internacional. He terminado el primer curso con buenas notas y me preparo para el segundo curso que empezara el proximo septiembre. Una vez terminado mis estudios me gustaria seguir ampliando mi curriculum con cursillos de idiomas y viajar para ampliar mis horizontes. Tambien me gustaria trabajar en el Comercio Internacional ya que es un sector con grandes oportunidades para trabajar y aprender. Ahora estoy ayudando a crear este blog para dar a conocer el Istituto Europeo por todo el mundo y para mi es un reto que espero poder realizar de la mejor manera posible.

The Florence Newspaper: Aida at the Arena di Verona from June 25 Until August 29

Arena di Verona will be showing Giusseppe Verdi's greatest classical opera, Aida. First performed in Cairo on December 24, 1871, Verdi considered its European premiere at La Scala in Milan to be its true premiere; unlike that of Cairo, the audience in Milan included the general public and not just dignitaries and critics. Aida, played by Amarilli Nizza, is a princess brought to slavery in Egypt. A military commander, Radames, played by Marco Berti, is forced to choose between his love for her and his loyalty to the Pharaoh, Enrico Giuseppe Iori. The Pharaoh's daughter, Amneris, played by Dolora Zajick, further complicates the story with her love for Radames. Costume designer Anna Anni and Director of Stage Design Giuseppe De Filippi Venezia bring scenes from Ancient Egypt to life on stage, while conductor Oren brings Verdi's masterpiece to life acoustically. Shows continue from Friday June 25 at 9:15 pm until August 29. Ticket prices range from 18-198 EURO. See www.arena.it for more information.

Written by Kia Wright
Public Relations Intern for The Florence Newspaper

wwwww.florencenewspaper.it/vediarticolo.asp?news=b0.06.21.16.59

venerdì 18 giugno 2010

The Florence Newspaper: The National Archaeological Museum in Florence

For a slightly different taste of the art and history Florence has to offer, consider a stop at the National Archaeological Museum in the Piazza Santissima Annunziata, northeast of the Duomo. Housed in the Palazzo della Crocetta, the museum offers a glimpse of the Etruscan, Greek, and Roman heritage of Italy and Florence, the lesser-known past of this quintessential Renaissance city. The anthropologcally-minded may enjoy the institution's exhibit on Native North American peoples, while the connoisseurs of an even more distant history can add a side trip to the neighboring Egyptian Museum. From marble and bronze statues, to collections of ceramics and funerary artifacts dating to the 6th and 5th centuries B.C., this museum provides a refreshing change for the tourist passing through the heart of the Italian Renaissance, who is weary of Florence's extensive offerings of religious paintings (if this is even possible), and reminds him (or her) that an equally brilliant society existed here before Brunelleschi's dome and Giotto's tower graced the horizon with their beauty. For more information please visit www.firenzemusei.it.

Written by Jessica Card
Art History Intern for The Florence Newspaper

Information:

Museo Archeologico
Via della Colonna, 36
+39 055 23575

Museum Hours:
Monday 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Tuesday and Thursday 8:30 a.m – 7:00 p.m
Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 8:30 a.m – 1:00 p.m

Tickets: £3

Information: Looking for an Internet Train Point in Florence?


IT.Firenze.Guelfa
Via Guelfa 54/56 rosso
IT.Firenze.Oriuolo
Via dell'Oriuolo, 40/r
IT.Firenze.Pontevecchio
B.go San Jacopo, 30/r
IT.Firenze.PortaRossa
Via Porta Rossa 38/rosso
IT.Firenze.Santacroce
Via de'benci, 36/r
IT.Firenze.Savonarola
Via Antonio Giacomini, 9

Information: Looking For a Hotel in Florence?

4 Star Hotels in Florence

Hotel Adler Cavalieri
Via Della Scala, 40
www.hoteladlercavalieri.com
Hotel Adriatico
Via Maso Finiguerra 9
www.hoteladriatico.it
Hotel Atlantic Palace
Via Nazionale 12 Nero/72 Rosso
www.atlanticpalace.it
Hotel Baglioni
Piazza Unità Italiana 6
www.hotelbaglioni.it
Hotel Fenice Palace
Via de' Martelli, 10
www.hotelfenicepalace.it
Hotel Meridiana Country
Via di Barberino 253
www.meridianacountryhotel.it
Hotel Monna Lisa
Borgo Pinti 27
www.monnalisa.it
Hotel Roma
Piazza Santa Maria Novella 8
www.hotelromaflorence.com
San Gallo Palace
Via Lorenzo il Magnifico, 2
www.sangallopalace.com
Hotel Torre di Bellosguardo
Via Roti Michelozzi 2
www.torrebellosguardo.com

3 Star Hotels in Florence

Hotel alla Scaletta
Via Guicciardini 13
www.hotellascaletta.it
Hotel Andrea
Piazza Indipendenza 19
www.hotelandrea.it
Hotel Annabella
Via Fiume 5
www.hotelannabella.it
Hotel Axial
Via dei Calzaiuoli 11
www.boccacciohotel.com
Hotel Boccaccio
Via della Scala 59
www.boccacciohotel.com
Hotel Bretagna
Lungarno Corsini 6
http://www.hotelbretagna.net
Hotel Cardinal of Florence
Borgo Pinti 5
www.hotelcardinalofflorence.com
Hotel Cellai
Via 27 Aprile 14, 52/R
www.hotelcellai.it
Hotel Centrale
Via dei Conti 3
www.hotelcentralefirenze.it
Hotel Cimabue
Via Bonifacio Lupi 7
www.hotelcimabue.it
Hotel Consigli
Lungarno A. Vespucci 50
www.hotelconsigli.com
Hotel Corona d'Italia
Via Nazionale 14
www.hotelcoronaditalia.com
Hotel Dante
Via San Cristofano 2
www.hotel-dante.it
Hotel Galileo
Via Nazionale 22/a
www.galileohotel.it
Hotel Gioia
Via Cavour 25
www.hotelgioia.it
Hotel Globus
Via S. Antonino 24
www.hotelglobus.com
Hotel Goldoni
Borgo Ognissanti 8
www.hotelgoldoni.com
Hotel Grifone
Via Gaetano Pilati 20-22
www.hotelgrifonefirenze.com
Hotel Il Guelfo Bianco
Via Cavour 29
www.ilguelfobianco.it
Hotel La Fortezza
Viale Milton 95
www.hotelfortezza.com
Hotel La Residenza
Via Tornabuoni 8
www.laresidenzahotel.com
Hotel La Selva
Via di Barberino 221
www.laselvahotel.com
Hotel La Venere
Via Cavour 21
www.hotellavenere.com
Hotel Loggiato dei Serviti
Piazza SS. Annunziata 3
www.loggiatodeiservitihotel.it
Hotel Malaspina
Piazza Indipendenza 24
www.malaspinahotel.it
Hotel Orto de Medici
Via S. Gallo 30
www.ortodeimedici.it
Palazzo Guadagni
Piazza Santo Spirito 9
www.palazzoguadagni.com
Hotel Silla
Via De' Renai5
www.hotelsilla.it
Hotel Victoria
Via Nazionale 102/r
www.hotelvictoriaflorence.com

Information: Looking for Maps of Florence by Zone?

Main Map


Piazza Libertà Zone
(light blue section on main map)


Piazza San Marco Zone
(orange section on main map)


Piazza Santa Croce Zone
(light green section on main map)


Fortezza da Basso Zone
(light purple section on main map)


City Center Zone
(pink section on main map)


Piazza Pitti Zone
(turquoise section on main map)


Porta al Prato Zone
(yellow section on main map)


Stazione Zone
(tan section on main map)


Piazza Tasso Zone
(grey section on main map)