Exploring Rome’s Appian Way and the Park of the Aqueducts means walking through time and ancient Rome. 

The Appian Way ran from Rome to Brindisi in Puglia 

On the outskirts of Rome, history and nature intertwine seamlessly on the ancient Appian Way and its park, the Parco dell'Appia Antica. This sprawling expanse of over 8,000 acres invites visitors to wander through ancient history amidst verdant landscapes, from the rural estates of Tormarancia and Farnesiana to the expansive green of Tor Fiscale and the Caffarella valley. 

The park embraces a 16-kilometre stretch of the ancient Appian Way, a road that has borne the weight of history for millennia., and which from Rome ran south ending at Brindisi in Puglia. Visitors can explore this iconic road on foot or by bicycle, as private vehicles are forbidden, ensuring an unspoiled atmosphere where the past feels astonishingly present.  

There are catacombs and aqueducts along the old road

The best starting point is the Porta San Sebastiano gate at the start of the Appian Way, which leads to the imposing Cecilia Metella mausoleum, the evocative ruins of the Circus of Maxentius, and the quiet charm of the Basilica of St. Sebastian, complete with its mysterious catacombs. Nearby, the Villa Quintili and imposing aqueducts stand as testaments to Rome’s architectural prowess.

Fascinating relics of ancient Rome 

Nestled within this larger sanctuary the Park of the Aqueducts is on 600 acres and celebrates Rome’s engineering brilliance. The soaring arches and ruins of half of the city’s eleven ancient aqueducts can still be seen on this area, forming a network that takes about two hours to traverse on foot. One of the most interesting monuments is the Villa Vignacce, a residence built by brick-maker Q. Servilius Pudens, whose craftsmanship is immortalized on visible brick stamps - a rarity from that era. Nearby, the Casale di Roma Vecchia, a medieval house-tower, hints at later histories layered upon the ancient foundations. 

The road is marked by centuries of wear and tear

Walking along the narrow, deeply rutted cobblestone roads of the Appian Way, worn down by centuries of footsteps and the passage of carts and chariots, the sensation of the stones beneath your feet is rough and uneven, at times jarring, but always awe-inspiring. A walk on the Appian Way, discovering its monuments and what is left standing of Rome’s ancient aqueducts, is one of those experiences that stays with visitors long after they have left the Eternal City. 

The new Solar Farm in Rome Fiumicino Airport is the largest self-consumption photovoltaic unit in a European airport.

A state-of-the-art new solar unit

Along the eastern side of runway 3 of the Roman hub, and now operational, the new unit, designed by Aeroporti di Roma and built by ENEL in cooperation with Circet, extends for almost 1.5 miles and is composed of some 55,000 monocrystalline silicon panels,, Thanks to a 22 MWp power output, it will enable the airport to produce more than 30 million kWh of electricity annually. This is a first big step that will lead the airport to have an installed capacity of 60 MWp in the next five years, with the installation of further farms within the perimeter of the current site. A capacity sufficient to meet the annual energy needs of 30,000 Italian families, for an entire year, or - translated into electric cars - to ‘fill up’ more than a million vehicles.

“Unique of its kind on the international airport scene”

“The launch of the new Solar Farm consolidates our commitment to the green transition and decarbonisation with an infrastructure that is unique of its kind on the international airport scene,- says Marco Troncone, CEO Aeroporti di Roma. -The energy independence guaranteed by this new project at our 5-star airport will make it possible to drastically reduce the environmental impact of our activities according to the sustainable development model that we have been working on for years.” 

Reaching Net Zero twenty years ahead of the target

The Solar Farm, which will therefore contribute to reducing the airport's CO2 emissions by more than 11,000 tonnes every year, represents one of the most ambitious initiatives in the path of energy transition and decarbonisation advanced by Adr, with the goal of reaching Net Zero Carbon in 2030, twenty years ahead of the sector target. In addition to reducing the use of fossil fuels for the energy needs of airport operations, the new project will also increase energy independence and resilience to market volatility.

The annual masked carnival celebrations held in Upper Piedmont are a journey through history, folklore and authentic flavours. 

A project from the Chamber of Commerce Monte Rosa Laghi Alto Piemonte 

Undisputed protagonists of  the annual carnival in Upper Piedmont, the towns of Borgosesia, Varallo and Santhià offer immersive experiences that tell the story of this land. The tourist enhancement project of north-eastern Piedmont, Vivi Alto Piemonte - Un Mosaico di Meraviglie is promoted by the Chamber of Commerce Monte Rosa Laghi Alto Piemonte. 

Carnival traditions in Upper Piedmont towns

In Borgosesia, the famous Mercu Scurot market that is held on the first day of Lent, is an event rooted in local history and mixes folklore, music and fun with parades of allegorical floats, characteristic masks and dance evenings involving the entire community. Varallo’s historical carnival combines the cultural richness of the Valsesia valley with a festive and engaging atmosphere. Colourful processions, dances and historical re-enactments transform the streets of Varallo into an open-air stage. Then there is the carnival of Santhià which is the oldest in Piedmont, with origins dating back to 1338. Among the most characteristic moments are the presentation of the masks and the famous “fagiolata” bean soup, the largest in Italy, with the distribution of some 20,000 portions. 

Varallo Carnival Arch. ph credits. ATL Terre Alto Piemonte

Traditional sweets and biscuits 

Continuing our journey to discover  the carnival traditions of  Upper Piedmont, we encounter other celebrations that reveal precious fragments of local culture and identity. For example in Vercelli, the city's symbolic character is Bicciolano, while in Novara we find King Biscottino, a figure inspired by the local confectionery tradition and the famous Biscotto di Novara biscuits. Also fascinating are the 19th-century masks of the Domodossola carnival, while the “old man” Gipin brings a smile to the streets of the city. Each of these various masks is a window on the history of the communities of Upper Piedmont, where culture and fun combine in events that conquer year in year out.

Novara Carnival Arch. ph credits. ATL Terre Alto Piemonte

A celebration of flavours and traditions

Upper Piedmont’s carnival celebrations are a true feast of authentic flavours with various types of carnival sweets, and no carnival is complete without a good glass of wine, especially sweet wine, to accompany the flavours of the region. Alto Piemonte’s carnival celebrations are a true celebration of the culture, flavours and traditions of this territory. With fascinating masks, irresistible sweets and excellent wines, every moment becomes an opportunity to experience a land rich in history and personality. 

Mount Etna, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, is a living landscape of fire and history. 

Mount Etna is Europe’s tallest active volcano

As one of the world’s most famous and active volcanoes, Mount Etna captivates visitors with its energy and ancient majesty. Towering at over 11,000 feet, it is the tallest active volcano in Europe, and its dramatic eruptions are a constant reminder of the Earth’s dynamic forces, offering vital insights into volcanic behavior and the inner workings of our planet.  Its constant eruptions have dramatically shaped the landscape with the fertile volcanic soil making the region ideal for agriculture, particularly for cultivating vineyards, orchards, and citrus groves. The volcano’s unique geological features have also made it an invaluable subject for scientific study, drawing geologists, volcanologists, and environmental scientists as well as nature lovers from around the world.

Catania is linked by air and rail

The nearest major city, Catania, is well-connected by air and rail, and serves as the gateway for visitors. From here, one can travel by car or take an organized tour to reach the base of the volcano which is less than an hour away. Roads lead to both the southern and northern stations, and visitors can continue their ascent via cable cars and all-terrain vehicles, which transport them closer to the summit. The journey offers spectacular views, and the closer one gets to the top, the more striking the landscape becomes, with steam rising from craters and lava flows stretching as far as the eye can see down towards the coast.  

Fine wines and ancient landmarks

Beyond the volcanic craters and hardened lava flows, the region surrounding Mount Etna is home to a natural park with lush forests, unique wildlife, and endemic plant species. The contrasting landscapes, from rugged, blackened lava fields to vibrant, green hillsides, offer a perfect environment for hikers, with numerous trails leading to scenic viewpoints. The towns and villages scattered around Mount Etna, such as Zafferana Etnea and Nicolosi, are known for their charm and the local cuisine, and the volcanic soil produces some of Sicily’s finest wines, which visitors can taste at local wineries. The area is also home to ancient monasteries, churches and other historical landmarks, making it an excellent destination for those looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region.  For information: www.etna3340.com/en/mount-etna

Rediscovering Ancient Rome’s cuisine is a gastronomic time travel experience.

Can you still eat like an ancient Roman? 

Travelling to Rome, Italy can leave you fascinated by the many ancient ruins around the city. These archaeological excavations and visual representations found in the remnants of ancient Roman architecture also help us understand ancient Roman culinary culture. You may wonder, though, are ancient Roman recipes still around? Let’s find out.

What food was like in Ancient Rome

Archaeologists have successfully unraveled fascinating details about the culinary customs of Ancient Rome. For ancient Romans the day started with the Jentaculum which was a light meal consisting of bread, fruit, cheese, and watered-down wine.  In the late afternoon the Cibus meridianus or Prandium, was a snack consisting of salted bread, cheese, vegetables, and meat. Vesperna was a light supper served in the late afternoon, and unlike the later Cena was meatless save on special occasions.  Cena was the final meal of the day and would go on till late in the night. It consisted of eggs, honey, cheese, vegetables, and various meats, desserts, and wine. The cooking methods used in ancient Rome included roasting over an open fire, baking and frying. Wine was often used in cooking to flavour sauces and stews, and still today Italians enjoy incorporating wines into their sauces. 

The wealthy vs the poor in Ancient Rome

In Ancient Rome, there was a striking difference between meals served in wealthy homes and those served in poorer homes. Dining in a wealthy home in ancient Rome was not just about sustenance but also a social and cultural affair. The hosts would treat their guests to elaborate feasts called Convivium, where guests would recline on Triclinium (triple reclined seats) and enjoy luxurious dishes and wines. Exotic dishes often included flamingo tongues, dormice, and other remarkable items that showcased the host’s affluence.  Research by Universiteit Leiden shows that the poor would dine on bread, Puls (a simple porridge made from spelt, millet, or wheat), sausage, and tripe. Ancient Romans also ate wild herbs and plants such as dandelions and nettles. 

Experiencing ancient Roman cuisine today

For modern travelers eager to taste a bit of Ancient Rome, specialized tours and culinary classes offer an immersive way to blend history with contemporary Italian flair. Local operators curate walking food tours through historical neighborhoods, where participants can sample dishes inspired by Roman antiquity—think Moretum-like dips or even a modern take on Isicia omentata, the ancient meat patty. Some of the best Italian foods you can enjoy in Rome today such as asparagus, artichokes, and mushrooms were enjoyed by the wealthy in Ancient Rome, and still today are a common delicacy. Visitors can also book Archaeological Dining experiences in select restaurants, featuring menus inspired by old Roman recipes. Some chefs craft experimental dishes using authentic ingredients like garum-inspired sauces, while keeping the flavors appealing to modern palates. This unique mix of history and cuisine transforms a simple meal into a cultural deep dive. 

Rediscovering ancient Roman recipes 

If your clients want a hands-on approach, several cooking schools in Rome schedule workshops on ancient Roman recipes. Participants learn to prepare adapted versions of favorites—like a pesto-style  Moretum  or savory Isicia—while discovering the historical background of each ingredient. This is an unforgettable way to bring Roman history into a traveller’s kitchen. Many ancient Roman recipes have been adapted to suit modern tastes. For example, Moretum can be roughly translated as salad, a simple, vegetarian meal typically made using cheese, herbs, and other greens, and dressed with condiments like vinegar or olive oil.  In today's modern kitchen, a dip like pesto can be seen as a modern take on Moretum.  Isicia omentata can be considered the Roman predecessor to today's burger and was made from minced meat, wine, pepper, pine nuts, and garum, a rich fish-based sauce.  

Incorporating Ancient Rome’s cuisine into travel packages

To make these experiences even more engaging for your clients, consider pairing a morning tour of iconic sites like the Colosseum or the Roman Forum with an afternoon cooking class focusing on ancient recipes. Afterwards, a guided visit to a local market can highlight produce that echoes Rome’s past—artichokes, asparagus, and other once-elite delicacies. By seamlessly blending history, gastronomy, and hands-on activities, your travelers will gain a richer appreciation of Rome's culinary legacy. By indulging in culinary tourism at ancient Roman sites, exploring interactive digital platforms, and participating in hands-on cooking classes, travelers connect more deeply with this remarkable civilization. For travel professionals crafting custom Italy packages, these experiences provide a unique opportunity to stand out, weaving historical insight into modern itineraries. Ultimately, by embracing these diverse approaches, we deepen our appreciation of the culture of Ancient Rome and its enduring impact on our world today.

Just a short distance from Naples, Oplontis is a privileged glimpse into ancient Roman luxury.

Oplontis is an alternative to Pompeii

One of the lesser-known treasures of ancient Roman history, this archaeological site, not far from the bustling town of Torre Annunziata, with its remarkably well-preserved ruins offers a fascinating look into the opulent lifestyle of the Roman elite. While many visitors flock to Pompeii and Herculaneum, Oplontis remains a peaceful alternative that brings history to life with its stunning frescoes and grand villas. Once a thriving Roman town, Oplontis sits only six miles south of Naples. 

A quieter but enriching experience 

Visitors can take a short train ride from Naples to Torre Annunziata or drive directly to the site. From the train station, it's only a brief walk to the entrance of Oplontis, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the area. The site is open to the public every day, except for Mondays, with visiting hours typically from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. It’s best to check the official website or local resources for any changes to visiting hours or special events. Oplontis is a place where visitors can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in history at their own pace, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a quieter but enriching experience.

The residence of Emperor Nero’s wife

One of the main attractions at Oplontis is the Villa of Poppea, believed to have been the residence of Emperor Nero’s second wife Poppaea Sabina. The villa showcases the grandeur and luxury of the Roman elite, the size and quality of its frescoes, mosaics, and gardens hinting at the wealth and refinement of its original owners. The frescoes are some of the best-preserved examples of Roman painting and offer a vivid glimpse into daily life during the first century A.D. 

Frescoes that create a sense of realism 

Covering various rooms within the villa the frescoes on the walls feature a wide range of themes, from mythological scenes to natural motifs, all executed with intricate detail and vibrant colors. One of the most striking aspects of the Oplontis frescoes is their use of perspective and depth, which was ahead of its time in creating a sense of realism.  The Villa of Poppea is divided into various rooms, and one of the highlights is the Garden Room, where visitors can admire the beautiful depictions of flora, fauna, and mythical figures.

A more intimate and reflective experience

Oplontis also has the Villa A which, while not as grand as the Villa of Poppea, offers a unique look at Roman domestic architecture and decoration. Apart from the villas themselves Oplontis also provides an intriguing look at the surrounding environment. The ruins of streets, shops, and public buildings reveal the layout of the ancient town, giving visitors a sense of how life was organized in this Roman settlement. Though the site is not as expansive as Pompeii or Herculaneum, the preservation of Oplontis offers a remarkable opportunity to step back in time and imagine the ancient world in all its splendor, and the site’s relatively low visitor numbers allow for a more intimate and reflective experience. 

The Marriott Group confirms the opening of the new Lake Como Edition this year. 

The Lake Como Edition will have 145 rooms

Already announced in 2022, the property, following the restyling and repositioning of the former 5-star Britannia Excelsior, is due to open in spring.  The hotel will feature 145 rooms, including two customized penthouse suites, a lobby bar, a floating swimming pool and dining options with views of Lake Como and the Bellagio mountains. The Lake Como Edition is owned by Bain Capital and Omnam Group, through a fund managed by the asset management company Ktyalos SGR.

The NH Collection brand will make its debut in the Alps in March with the Mirtillo Rosso in Alagna Valsesia, at the foot of Monte Rosa in the Alps. 

The hotel is in the Monte Rosa ski area

The property was inaugurated in 2016 by the Ponti family as a family hotel and has until now been managed by Mirtillo Rosso srl, with 50% each controlled by managing director Stefano Cerutti and Lara Ponti. The hotel is located a few minutes from the Alagna cable car which leads to the Monte Rosa Ski area that connects three valleys, Valsesia, Gressoney and Champoluc, and with 93 miles of slopes in Piedmont and Valle d'Aosta. 

Adults-only and family areas 

The hotel has 56 rooms and a wellness centre with a spa, equipped with an adults-only area, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a salt pool for buoyancy therapy, hydro-massage, two saunas, a Turkish bath, sensory showers and four treatment rooms. In addition, there is a 400-sqm family area with an indoor and outdoor pool, and guests can enjoy the large garden, which has a children's play area and sun loungers while the restaurant offers the possibility of full board or à la carte menus.

The NH Collection has 17 hotels in Italy 

“Joining such an important international group is an opportunity for development, but also a recognition of the value and beauty of this side of Monte Rosa,” says Lara Ponti, who is the owner of the hotel. This acquisition boosts the portfolio of the NH Collection brand, which is present in Italy with 17 hotels in cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Taormina, Genoa, Verona and Turin. The brand is already active in Piedmont, with the NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina and the NH Collection Torino Santo Stefano in Turin. In total the Minor Hotels Europe & Americas group, to which the brand belongs, has 60 hotels in Italy, under the Anantara, Tivoli, Avani, nhow, NH and NH Collection brands.