Disclosure:
By the FTC guidelines, I'm required to inform you that some of the links may be affiliate links. When this is the case, if you PURCHASE products through these links, then I receive a (really modest) commission. This blog is independently owned and the opinions expressed here are my own.

18 March 2024

Dragons Of The Milan Cathedral And The Legend Of The Woolly Sow Of The Milan Foundation

The city of Milan is perhaps best known for its relatively modern monuments such as the Duomo or La Scala theater. This is why the story I want to tell you now is unknown to many.

Dragons Of The Milan Cathedral And The Legend Of The Woolly Sow Of The Milan Foundation. Two legends about the foundation of Milan and it's medieval

If you are normal people, not historians, guides, and the like, you have often heard that Milan is the capital of fashion and industry. If you thought about visiting the city, the major monuments were probably on your list. But before you go there next time, read a little about the mysterious places of Milan. I'll tell you about two of them today.

The first of the mysteries you will find here, on the main door of the Cathedral of Milan. But before you look at it, I’ll tell you curious facts: The cathedral's facade is not ancient. On the plaque (photo) that you will then find in the Cathedral is the date and name of the architect. Statues, spiers, and other ornaments were added over many years. =>>>

 To see all the photos of this walk, 
 ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ Continue Reading This Story Here: ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ 
https://exegi.substack.com/p/dragons-of-the-milan-cathedral-and

 And subscribe to read my stories every week. It's free


16 March 2024

Trails of Tales in Piedmont's Countryside -- A Refreshing Walk Through History and Nature

Since Saturday was free from commitments, I decided that for the walk I should choose a warm and not so demanding place. And what could be better than the Bertignano Lake area (near Roppolo, Piedmont, Italy)?


Having left the car near the church of S. Vitalino I went to "visit" the ruins of S. Elisabett church. I was sure that this church was very old, more or less before the 10th century. But on the information folder nearby it says that it was built in 1638, I think, and was in operation until 1931.

It is said that even in the 60s of the last century women brought flowers there after working in the fields.


There is now a picnic table in front of the ruin. It wasn't there before when I passed by a few years ago. The administration of Roppolo, a larger village nearby, and others take great care to clean the paths and keep the places interesting for the people who come to walk there from all over the province.

11 March 2024

Private Landowners and Shepherd Dogs Working In The Mountains

When we put on our hiking boots and explore mountain trails, we often feel a sense of freedom and connection to nature. The stunning views, fresh air, and sense of achievement that come with reaching a summit all add to the allure of hiking. However, it's important to remember that many of the trails we enjoy exist thanks to the hard work and generosity of private landowners.


Private landowners play a crucial role in maintaining and preserving hiking trails in the mountains in Italy. They allow hikers to access their land, often without charge, so that we can experience the beauty of the natural world. These landowners invest their time, money, and effort into maintaining trails, building bridges, and ensuring that hikers can navigate their property safely.

We truly appreciate this work when we come across an interesting trail, only to find it impassable due to overgrowth and fallen trees. In such cases, we have no choice but to turn back or find an alternative route. Unfortunately, this situation can ruin the hike.

09 March 2024

Pramotton Tower in Aosta Valley, Italy: Fairy Tale And Reality. Let's Dream About The Spring Hikes!

Once upon a time, in the picturesque town of Pramotton in Italy, there stood a magnificent tower that loomed over the surrounding countryside. This tower, known as the Tower of Pramotton, was said to have been built centuries ago by a wealthy nobleman who sought to showcase his power and wealth to all who beheld it.


Legend had it that the tower was not just a symbol of status, but also held a magical secret within its walls. It was said that hidden deep within the tower was a chamber that contained a powerful artifact, rumored to grant immense wealth and prosperity to whoever possessed it.

Many brave adventurers and treasure hunters had attempted to uncover the secrets of the Tower of Pramotton, but none had succeeded. The tower was surrounded by a mysterious aura that seemed to repel all who dared to approach it too closely.

05 March 2024

Why Hiking in Italy in Piedmont and Aosta Valley

Hiking in Italy's Piedmont and Aosta Valley regions offers a breathtaking experience due to their stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. Here's why these regions are fantastic for hiking:

Hiking in Italy's Piedmont and Aosta Valley regions offers a breathtaking experience due to their stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. Here's why these regions are fantastic for hiking:

04 March 2024

Hunting Trophies on the Walls of the Hunting Lodge

Italy boasts a wealth of castles, many of which can be visited and some even offered for overnight stays. Amongst them, the Real Castle of Sarre stands out as the most captivating this year.

Although the castle was built in 1710 and later purchased and transformed into a hunting lodge by King Victor Emmanuel II in 1869, it is not as ancient as other castles in the region. Nonetheless, its interiors are truly remarkable and leave a lasting impression.



The Real Castle of Sarre was not the only hunting lodge owned by Victor Emmanuel II. The Castello de La Mandria, a UNESCO heritage site, was constructed in the 17th century for hunting trips in the picturesque Turin moors. Another magnificent palace, the Palazzina di caccia di Stupinigi (TO), was built in the second half of the 18th century. These palaces are highly recommended for their breathtaking beauty.

From early on, Victor Emmanuel II displayed a great passion for hunting. According to his biographies, he often disregarded his tutors' lessons to indulge in this and other interests.

 To see all the photos of this walk, 
 ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ Continue Reading This Story Here: ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ 

https://exegi.substack.com/p/castles-to-visit-in-italy


 And subscribe to read my stories every week. It's free


 

03 March 2024

Castle of Saint-Pierre, The Most Spectacular Castle of Aosta Valley, Italy

A journey through time in Valle D'Aosta, the captivating history and allure of this remarkable region and one of its most scenic castles, Castle of Saint-Pierre. 


Nestled in the breathtaking Alps of northwestern Italy lies the enchanting region of Valle D'Aosta, a land steeped in history, culture, and architectural wonders. Known as the “region of 120 castles,” Valle D'Aosta boasts a rich heritage of medieval fortresses and castles that dot its picturesque landscape, each with its own unique story to tell. An impressive number of castles and other types of fortifications, but also a relatively small population, make it

the most fortified region in Italy.

Among these magnificent structures stands the illustrious Castle of Saint-Pierre, a true gem of Valle D'Aosta's historical legacy.

Table of Content

  1. The TOP castles in Italy

  2. The Castle of Saint-Pierre

  3. De Sancto Petro noble family

  4. Where to eat near the castle of Saint-Pierre

  5. Wine: Vallée d’Aoste Torrette DOC and Supérieur

  6. More Info About Tickets, Prices, Timetables of the Castles

 To see all the photos of this walk, 
 ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ Continue Reading This Story Here: ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ 

https://exegi.substack.com/p/castle-of-saint-pierre-the-most-spectacular


 And subscribe to read my stories every week. It's free


29 February 2024

Do marmots live in Italy? Here They Are Not Afraid of People

An indescribable beauty of a place where the mountains are higher than 2000 meters above sea level and where you feel renewed in nature, animals that know they are not threatened by a man. 

Gran Paradiso National Park, indescribable beauty of a place where the mountains are higher than 2000 meters above sea level and where you feel renewe


Serrù Lake, Agnel Lake, Colle di Nivolet... This is now a place that I visit every June: a unique place where you can meet lots of marmots and also a large herd of ibex.

I leave the car near Lake Serrù and take a nice walk. This time I decided to explore the Ancient Military Road. Honestly, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to make it after the winter, but in the end, I did 9 km with significant altitude differences: the parking lot is at 2250 meters above sea level, the highest part I reached 2350, then I went down to 2070 and returned to the parking lot.

I often have breathing problems when walking at heights above 1500m asl, but yesterday I felt so good - I have to say that the height was not felt at all. I mean that if you are afraid of feeling bad in the high mountains (it happens with many) maybe you should choose a different season. For example June and not July or August.

Serrù Lake, Agnel Lake, Colle di Nivolet... This is now a place that I visit every June: a unique place where you can meet lots of marmots and also a large herd of ibex. I leave the car near Lake Serrù and take a nice walk. This time I decided to explore the Ancient Military Road. Honestly, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to make it after the winter, but in the end, I did 9 km with significant altitude differences: the parking lot is at 2250 meters above sea level, the highest part I reached 2350, then I went down to 2070 and returned to the parking lot.

 To see all the photos of this walk, 
 ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ Continue Reading This Story Here: ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ 
https://exegi.substack.com/p/this-is-a-place-where-marmots-are
 And subscribe to read my stories every week. It's free


 

28 February 2024

We Visited The Highest Library in Europe

In Val Maira it seems that time has stopped. One of the interesting places to visit is the highest library in Europe.


The highest library in Europe I want to tell you about is situated in Marmora (CN), in Val Maira. It is located at an altitude of 1,580 meters and was established by Father Sergio De Piccoli, a Benedictine monk with three degrees. This incredible library is housed in the spacious Marmora rectory, which is renowned for its extensive collection of books.

Life in the mountains seems to have not changed much over the centuries and the visit to this humble library remains in our hearts: we enter an inhabited room with a bed, a kitchen, and a table - all in one - and then we descend into a series of rooms completely filled with books. Even rare. Whole necklaces, some of which do not exist more in other places. Imagine, there are more than 75000 books there! They are everywhere! =>>>

 To see all the photos of this walk, 
 ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ Continue Reading This Story Here: ⬇︎⬇︎⬇︎ 

https://exegi.substack.com/p/the-highest-library-in-europe

 And subscribe to read my stories every week. It's free


 

25 February 2024

Control Trail Conditions When You Plan Hiking in Piedmont and Aosta Valley, Italy

Hiking in Piedmont, Italy offers a unique experience with its well-preserved soil and solid surfaces. The trails are well-drained, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable hike for visitors. The CAI (Italian Alpine Club) and other associations and volunteers do a great job maintaining the paths, mule roads, and other trails for nature and sports enthusiasts. They ask only that visitors use these designated pathways to preserve both wildlife and pastures. Please refrain from trampling off the beaten track or destroying the original soil.

Control Trail Conditions When You Plan Hiking in Piedmont and Aosta Valley, Italy

Subscribe
Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...