Vicenza, Italy – An Open Air Museum of Palladian Architecture

Basilica Palladiana and clock tower is a magnificent example of the palladian architecture of Vicenza Italy

Challenge anyone to list the world’s most famous architects and names like Frank Lloyd Wright, Antoni Gaudí, and I.M. Pei will likely be bandied about. Most would be surprised, however, to learn that a 16th century Italian architect known as Palladio is widely considered to be the most influential individual in the history of Western … Read more

PHOTO: Sun Sets Over Piazza dei Signori in Vicenza, Italy

Piazza dei Signori in Vicenza Italy

Midway between the cities of Venice and Verona in northern Italy, lies a third “V” – the tiny town of Vicenza. Though smaller and lesser known that its more famous neighbors, Vicenza nonetheless packs a punch in terms of history, culture, and especially architecture. In 1994, Vicenza was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due … Read more

PHOTO: Strolling Along the Shore of Lake Garda in Peschiera del Garda, Italy

Strolling along the shores of Lake Garda in Peschiera del Garda in the Lakes District of Italy

I’ve long been fascinated by the idea of the Lakes District in Italy. The roots of my fascination may lie in the many movies that have been filmed there. Casino Royale, Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, A Month By the Lake, Ocean’s Twelve, and Man on Fire, among others, were all … Read more

PHOTO: Arch of Peace in Milan, Italy, Ridicules Napoleon Bonaparte’s France

The Arch of Peace in Milan, Italy, was ordered built by Napoleon after he conquered northern Italy in 1805.

On March 17, 1805, Napoleon Bonaparte’s armies conquered northern Italy. Two months later, Napoleon had himself crowned at the Duomo di Milano, taking the title “Emperor of the French and King of Italy.” To commemorate his victory, Napoleon ordered a grand Arco delle Vittorie (Arch of Victory) to be built at the point on the … Read more