The designation of Bergamo and Brescia as Italian Capital of Culture 2023, approved on July 16, 2020, was a strong response to the global disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic that began in winter 2020. 

Two symbols of resilience to the pandemic's violent impact

The Italian government decided to support the proposal made by Bergamo and Brescia, which have become two symbols of resilience to the pandemic's violent impact in Italy, by promoting their nomination as Italian Capital of Culture 2023 and electing two cities instead of one, as an exception to normal procedures. The aim being to support a project that would not only compensate the territory for the tragic pandemic experience and its losses but would also direct all energies towards a true relaunch in which culture would serve as a catalyst for innovations and visions in the most diverse spheres. 

Bergamo

The Italian Capital of Culture 2023 focuses on the theme of the illuminated city

Bergamo and Brescia, located along the pre-Alpine belt and overlooking the Po Valley, have historically been distinguished by the presence of neighbouring civilizations, similar hydrogeological systems, a diverse yet similar urban and housing distribution and similar climatic and environmental challenges. Two cities so close, that they have chosen to embark on a path of growth and development together. The dossier presented for the Italian Capital of Culture 2023 focuses on the theme of the illuminated city, an expression that encompasses various meanings, such as tolerance, creativity, scientific research and technological development.

Public and private players will implement a rich programme of events

The Italian Capital of Culture 2023 project is based on four thematic macro-areas: culture as a cure, the city of nature, the city of hidden treasures, and the city that invents, around which a rich programme of events will unfold, organised in collaboration with public and private players. The events will comprise meetings and conferences, art competitions, exhibitions, music festivals, sporting events, the creation of nature trails as well as raising environmental sustainability awareness among children and organizing infrastructural interventions to improve accessibility to places of culture.

Brescia and its surroundings are the perfect setting for unforgettable romantic getaways and holidays, offering many opportunities for recreation, entertainment and gourmet dining. 

Snow-capped peaks and thermal waters

And what better way to cap off a day at high altitude than among the snow-capped peaks of the Adamello? And stay overnight in one of the exclusive igloos on the Presena Glacier? Created by a team of specialised architects, the rooms are innovative ice suites, offering a truly unique stay! Guests will also find a spa and a swimming pool, as well as an ice cellar where you they sample authentic Trentino spirits. For a romantic couple's getaway you can count on a wide range of spas in Brescia and its surroundings for relaxation and reinvigoration in stunning locations. And do not miss the splendid outdoor swimming pool overlooking the lake with warm water at the Aquaria Thermal spa in Sirmione.

A charming historic centre and UNESCO Roman heritage

With its historic charm, the centre of Brescia is the ideal setting for enjoying a romantic stroll with your partner. From the central Piazza Loggia, you can reach Piazza Vittoria and Piazza Paolo VI where the old and new cathedrals stand out. From there, we suggest you explore Via Musei, the heart of historic Brixia, from Roman Brescia with its UNESCO heritage to the Roman Theatre, every step leading to something exciting!

Three lakes, cycle and pedestrian trails and lakeside aperitifs

Lake Garda, Lake Iseo and Lake Idro: with its three wonderful lakes, the province of Brescia offers endless opportunities for walking in the open air by the water surrounded by picturesque landscapes. From the cycle and pedestrian path of Limone sul Garda to the lakeside walks of Pisogne, from the timeless beauty of Monte Isola to the unique peace of little villages like Anfo, Crone and Lemprato, there are many paths and walkways for romantic moments.  And to conclude the afternoon, you can take refuge in one of the many bars by the lake and savour a delicious aperitif with a view!

Winter guided snowmobile excursions 

During the winter months, for adrenaline junkies looking for something fun to do in Brescia’s mountains, there are night-time snowmobile tours. Expert instructors will accompany you on guided snowmobile excursions, far from the chaos of the busiest slopes. The evening ends with a warm dinner in a refuge incorporating local produce, artisanal wines and grappa.

The best way to visit Turin, Italy’s elegant former capital, like all cities rich in history, art, and architecture, is to discover it on foot, using public transport only for longer journeys.

The city's square layout, inherited from its Roman past, makes it easy for tourists to orient themselves, with the main squares and monuments serving as points of reference.

The central San Carlo square has many historic cafés 

The first stop in Turin is undoubtedly Piazza San Carlo, the elegant pedestrian square that the people of Turin have nicknamed "the living room of Turin." Under its arcades, there are elegant shops and some of the city's historic cafes, including the simply stunning Caffé Torino, which dates back to 1903. In Liberty style, which was an Italian variant of Art Nouveau, the Caffé Torino was the first bar to have electric lighting.

The world-famous Egyptian Museum is a must-see

From Piazza San Carlo, taking Via Maria Vittoria for about a hundred meters, you reach the vicinity of the Egyptian Museum. It is the oldest Egyptian museum in the world and the most famous after the museum in Cairo. Founded in 1824, it is dedicated exclusively to Egyptian art, and among the collection's artifacts there are mummies, sarcophagi, papyri, statues, and much more.

Turin has many magical and esoteric places worth visiting

Piazza Castello, the elegant former capital’s main pedestrian square, can be considered the heart of Turin. Turin’s main shopping streets branch out from it, including Via Garibaldi, Via Po, and the luxurious Via Lagrange and Via Roma. Then there is the Royal Palace, the most important of the Savoy residences in Piedmont, and Palazzo Madama, now the seat of the Museum of Ancient Art. Perhaps not everyone knows that this is one of the places in the Turin magic triangle. If you are interested in discovering the history and magical and esoteric places of Turin, you can take the Magical Turin tour, every Thursday and Saturday evening at 9 pm, starting from Piazza Statuto. 

Is the Holy Grail in the Gran Madre di Dio Church?

Strolling under the arcades of Via Po you reach Piazza Vittorio Veneto, one of the largest porticoed squares in Europe, recently restored and made pedestrian. Piazza Vittorio overlooks the Po River, looking towards the Church of Santa Maria del Monte dei Cappuccini, and towards the Church of the Gran Madre di Dio. It is in this beautiful church, on the other side of the river, that legend has it, that the famous Holy Grail, the chalice from which Christ drank during the Last Supper, is located. 

Mole Antonelliana

Exceptional 360° views from the elevator in the Museum of Cinema 

Passing through the elegant former capital’s Via Montebello, you reach Turin's iconic building, the Mole Antonelliana. Built in 1873 by the architect Alessandro Antonelli, it was initially designed as a synagogue, but the construction eventually reached an enormous height (topping 167 meters it is the tallest building in Turin). It houses the National Museum of Cinema which is another absolute must-visit! There is a panoramic elevator that takes visitors up to a height of 85 meters. And, on clear days, they can admire an exceptional 360-degree view of the city, the Turin hills, and the Alps with their snow-capped peaks for much of the year.

The Reggia di Venaria royal palace is not to be missed

For nature lovers there is the Valentino Park, Turin's green lung, with its medieval village, and from there, you can follow the Po river by walking along the Murazzi, which reconnect to Piazza Vittorio Veneto.  You should not miss the opportunity to visit the Reggia di Venaria royal palace with its magnificent gardens and splendid temporary exhibitions. Also worth a visit are the recently reopened salons of the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi, a charming hunting lodge, and the other Savoy residences in the area surrounding the elegant former capital of Italy. 

Italian tourism minister Daniela Santanchè, who was in Berlin for the ITB, spoke about the fundamental importance of the German market. “German visitors do not come to Italy just during the traditional seasons, but rather follow a much broader seasonality. This is why, as a country, we strive to be always ready to meet the requests and needs of German arrivals.”

German visitors like to explore lesser-known destinations

“Germany is Italy's first inbound market. In 2022, 9.4 million German visitors came to Italy, with 58.5 million overnights and a 6.2-day average stay. It is a more diverse kind of tourism, with people coming, and then returning to Italy, to discover new destinations, try new experiences, and to explore smaller and lesser-known destinations.” 

“The German market feeds into other industries” 

“To put Minister Santanchè’s idea into action, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board) works closely with operators, providing assistance and training, and ensuring the quality of the offer, because we know how valuable the German tourist flows are. It is a thriving market that feeds into other industries,” said Ivana Jelinic, CEO of ENIT, the Italian tourist board. “German travellers stay in Italy for at least a week. Some 25% of air arrivals in 2022 were for 6 to 8 nights (26.5% in 2021), and 81% of airport arrivals were leisure travellers.” 

Focusing on Ischia, and on food and wine

The ministry and ENIT are focusing on an Ischia promotional campaign to aid the island's recovery through tourism and reposition it once again as a prime international destination.  Another sector coming in for attention is food and wine,

“which represents one of Italy’s most important excellences, and is a true flagship for our country,” said Ivana Jelinic.

 

Hotel San Pancrazio, a property in Trescore Balneario managed by HSL Hospitality, is set in Bergamo’s lush valleys. 

Enjoying the two Capital of Culture 2023 cities

Just ten kilometres from the Orio al Serio International Airport and with easy access to Milan, Brescia, Verona, Venice and the main lakes of northern Italy, the Hotel San Pancrazio, which has just undergone renovations, is a Touring Partner of Bergamo’s Accademia Carrara. Guests staying at the hotel can purchase tickets for exclusive exhibitions and events linked to this special year for the area, as the cities of Bergamo and Brescia are this year’s Italian Capital of Culture.

Art and culture but also active tourism 

This major event integrates these two northern two cities, multiplying their values and experiences and allowing visitors to take a fascinating journey through their artistic and cultural treasures, unique flavours and excellences.  The Hotel San Pancrazio is a functional and smart location for anyone who wants to discover Bergamo, its surroundings and its lush valleys, as well as for lovers of active tourism who would like try different trails and sports. 

E-bike tours, sailing and exclusive exhibitions 

Painting lessons accompanied by a teacher, e-bike tours, and sailing trips on Lake Iseo are just some of the activities that can be organized during a stay at the Hotel San Pancrazio. It is also possible to combine a stay at the hotel with guided tours and wine tastings at local wineries, to discover the events organized by Bergamo Brescia 2023, and to get tickets for exclusive exhibitions at the Hotel San Pancrazio.

Why not spend Easter on Italy’s Monterosa slopes and enjoy a spectacular Easter lunch at high altitude?

Four valleys, 51 slopes and 28 ski lifts

While at lower altitudes the cherry trees are already in bloom, there is still time for one last ski run in the Monterosa Ski area, between Italy’s northern Val d’Aosta and Piedmont regions. These valleys are snow-covered until the end of April, leaving skiers of all levels to venture into one of Europe’s largest ski areas. Four valleys, 51 slopes served by no fewer than 28 ski lifts at an altitude of between 1,200 and 3,300 metres, while in the background the majestic profile of Monterosa peeks out between the glaciers. 

The Monterosa valleys are for skiers of all levels

Dominating this scenery is the 4,634-metrem peak of Punta Dufour, from which three valleys descend  between the Val d'Aosta and Piedmont. Sport, culture, food, wine and fun for the whole family: there really is a Monterosa for everyone, even in spring, and even at Easter. Valsesia is known as a freeride paradise, the Gressoney Valley has funslopes, cross-country ski runs and baby-snow-parks, and between the Gressoney Valley and the Val d'Ayas here are endless kilometres of trails suitable for ski mountaineering. 

The Happy Ski promo for die-hard skiers

For the entire period from now to mid-April - so including Easter – with a minimum stay of three overnights (four if weekends are included), the Happy Ski promo entitles holidaymakers up to a 35% discount on the Skipass.

Easter lunch at high altitude at the Rifugio Paradisia

There are many gourmet outlets at high altitude such as the Rifugio Paradisia at 2.070 metes which can be reached by funicular railway from Frachey, and has a menu of genuine cuisine based on local ingredients. The specialties of the house are the tartiflette potato and cheese pie and Valdostana cabbage and cheese soup, and there is also a wide choice of cheeses and cold cuts.

For information and booking: https://www.facebook.com/Taconet.rifugioParadisia

Passengers departing from Terminal 1 of Rome Fiumicino airport can now carry liquids exceeding 100 ml in their hand luggage, as well as computers, tablets, and mobile phones without having to separate them and remove them from their suitcase.

New CAT scan technology - introduced last year for frequent travellers - has now been extended to all passengers.

Detecting potentially dangerous substances 

Terminal 1, which hosts around 70% of departures from Fiumicino now has the C3 Explosive Detection System hand baggage control equipment by Smiths Detection which will increase security levels and further improve the passenger experience. 

The new machines use X-ray scanners to obtain a computed tomography of baggage, producing high-resolution volumetric 3D images with automatic detection of potentially dangerous substances. 

The new technology will soon be operational in Terminal 3

The installation of the new technology is now underway at the security checkpoints of Terminal 3 and will be completed within the year, with the sole exception of direct flights to the USA and Israel, which are subject to specific screening procedures.

Making the airport of the future

"The investment in the new C3 machines for checking hand luggage, the revolutionary QPass system for booking appointments at security checkpoints and Grasp for dynamically directing passengers towards the fastest service lane are part of the innovations that Aeroporti di Roma is implementing to become the airport of the future,” said Ivan Bassato, chief aviation officer, Aeroporti di Roma.

Bernabò Bocca, president of the Italian hotels association Federalberghi, says that public funding can often leave larger hotel companies out on a limb.

“When an entrepreneur tries to grow the aid disappears” 

It’s no secret that Italy’s hotel system suffers from excessive fragmentation, and Federalberghi’s president recently pointed out that public funding tends to support SMEs. "Public subsidies and funding are most reserved for small and medium-sized-enterprises. When the size increases, there is nothing left, and when an entrepreneur tries to grow, instead of getting support for his or her efforts and investments, the aid disappears. This complicates things for Italian hotels which are grappling with increasingly fierce international competition.”

The need for change of use on Versilia’s seafront

Bocca also focused on the problem of permits and licenses for modernizing properties. "Our municipal administrations are very generous when it comes to granting permits for new openings, but less so when it is for a change of use. Take the case of the Versilia region for example. The seafront has a plethora of pensions and boarding houses, but a shortage of apartments. Why not think about converting at least part of the existing properties into a more up-to-date residential product?”

Hotels are counting on a return of travellers from the Far East

Bocca concluded on a positive note, saying that this year’s aim is to exceed the pre-Covid levels of 2019. “We already come close in 2022, albeit with the first three months still affected by the Omicron variant, and this year we also count on seeing a return of travellers from the Far East.”

Good news from Euromonitor’s Travel Forecast Model, as reported by Travel Daily News, which forecasts that world inbound tourism spending this year should attain 83% of its peak 2019 levels, returning to full glory by 2024.

Values-based offers such as sports, wellness and eco-tourism are headed to outperform standard packages, with an average growth of over 12% per year over 2023-2027. And nature-based adventure, eco and sun and sea tourism is predicted to account for 57% of all travel packages worldwide in 2023.

Further good news is that 57.3% of travel companies say customers are willing to pay more for sustainable products and services. So it’s yes! yes! yes! to experiencing local traditions like food and drink that can turn a holiday into the trip of a lifetime.    

 

Pamela McCourt Francescone
Executive Editor

The Maze of the Masone (Labirinto della Masone) near Fontanellato in the province of Parma, is a treat and an indulgence for lovers of mystery, and is the brainchild of the publisher, designer, art collector and bibliophile Franco Maria Ricci. 

The Maze also hosts exhibitions and events year-around 

The Maze which is on his estate has reopened to the public after a short winter break and is an Eden in which to wander and get lost.  At its center there is a pyramid-shaped chapel, symbolizing the ancient link between mazes and Faith. This extraordinary architectural complex also has a rich exhibition and event programme throughout the year which greatly enhances the visit for lovers of mystery, art, literature and more, as it delves into different themes related to the passions that guided the activity and life of Franco Maria Ricci.

The Maze is the result of a promise made to writer Jorge Luis Borges

The cultural park, created in 2015 on a project by Franco Maria Ricci together with architects Pier Carlo Bontempi and Davide Dutto, is an eight-hectare hamlet where time seems to stand still, a place to be discovered and rediscovered over, and over again. Spending an hour, or a day at the Maze of the Masone is a unique experience that can begin by entering the labyrinth composed of more than 300,000 bamboo plants of 20 different species. This is the result of a promise Franco Maria Ricci made in 1977 to the Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges, who had always been fascinated by the symbol of the maze, both in a metaphysical key and as a metaphor for the human condition. 

The Maze is three kilometres long and made of 300,000 tall bamboo plants

The Maze of the Masone is beautiful, mysterious and intriguing, and to walk through this more than three-kilometre-long tangle of twists and blind alleys is an experience for the eyes and mind that stimulates reflection and creativity. Some find the exit immediately, while other lovers of mystery get lost among the tall bamboo canes, and the experience at the Maze of the Masone does not end there. There is also the Museoche museum that houses the vast art collection of Franco Maria Ricci and narrates his extraordinary eclecticism. 

The collection of Franco Maria Ricci counts some 400 works of art

The thematic collection in the museum consists of some four hundred works, including paintings, sculptures and objets d'art, ranging from great 17th-century to neoclassical sculpture, from still lifes to Napoleonic busts, from Romantic to popular 19th-century painting. But it is not just art and nature, as there is also good food and relaxation in the Ristorante dei 12 Monacone where dishes created by chef Andrea Nizzi blend tradition and innovation with the flavours of Parma’s cuisine and modern culinary and preservation techniques. There is also the Bistrò for a quick lunch or snack, and the gastronomy shop where you can buy excellent and selected local foods and wines. 

Two luxurious suites for an added frisson of excitement

And for those lovers of mystery who don't want to leave the Maze yet, and want to experience an added frisson of excitement during their visit, the two luxurious suites with works of art and refined furnishings, are an invitation to enjoy a unique and evocative stay in this extraordinary complex.