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The persuasive shapes of Casa Milà in Barcelona

Le forme suadenti di Casa Milà a Barcellona

The seductive forms of Casa Milà, known as La Pedrera, Barcelona.
Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, is one of the most iconic buildings in Barcelona and one of the most famous works of the architect Antoni Gaudí. Located in the heart of the Eixample district, this masterpiece of modernist architecture attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year, fascinated by its innovative structure and bold design.
Casa Milà was commissioned by Pere Milà i Camps and his wife, Roser Segimon, who wanted a luxurious and distinctive residence. Gaudí accepted the commission and worked on the project from 1906 to 1912. The result was a building that challenged the architectural conventions of the time, introducing organic forms and innovative structural solutions.
The construction of Casa Milà was not without controversy. Gaudí’s bold forms and unconventional techniques attracted much criticism and opposition, so much so that the nickname “La Pedrera” (the stone quarry) was originally coined in a derogatory sense. However, over time, the building has been recognized as a masterpiece of modernist architecture.
Casa Milà is famous for its sinuous forms and organic appearance, reminiscent of the waves of the sea. The stone facade is characterized by curved lines and irregular surfaces, without right angles, which give the building a dynamic and constantly moving appearance. The wrought iron balconies, designed by the artist Josep Maria Jujol, add an additional artistic touch with their intricate and almost vegetal designs.
One of the most distinctive elements of Casa Milà is the roof, which houses a series of sculptural chimneys, air vents and ventilation towers. These elements are not only functional, but also form a true artistic landscape, transforming the roof into a unique panoramic terrace. The chimneys, in particular, are famous for their shapes that recall warriors or fantastic creatures.
Gaudí implemented numerous structural innovations in Casa Milà. The building has no internal load-bearing walls, thanks to a steel and reinforced concrete structure that allows for great flexibility of the interior spaces. This approach made it possible to create apartments with free plans, adaptable to the needs of the residents.
Another innovation was the use of a natural ventilation system, which used air currents to keep the interior of the building cool, reducing the need for artificial ventilation. In addition, Gaudí designed an underground garage, a very modern feature for the time.
Casa Milà represents the pinnacle of Gaudí's modernist architecture and embodies his vision of an architecture integrated with nature. The organic forms, decorative details and innovative use of materials reflect Gaudí’s desire to create buildings that were in harmony with the natural environment and that responded to the functional needs of their inhabitants.
In 1984, Casa Milà was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognizing its universal value and its historical and artistic importance. Today, the building houses a cultural center and a museum dedicated to Gaudí’s life and work, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the original interiors and see his extraordinary creations up close.
Visiting Casa Milà is an immersive experience that allows you to fully appreciate Gaudí’s brilliance. The interior spaces, with their flowing lines and decorative details, offer a fascinating glimpse into life in the Modernista era. The roof terrace, with its stone sculptures, offers panoramic views of the city of Barcelona and is one of the highlights of the visit.
The museum inside Casa Milà presents a wide range of informative materials, models and objects that illustrate Gaudí's creative process and the history of the building's construction. Interactive displays and thematic routes make the visit educational and engaging for visitors of all ages.

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Le forme suadenti di Casa Milà a Barcellona

Le forme suadenti di Casa Milà a Barcellona

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Tamron 16-300.

This is the official website of the house: lapedrera.com.

Here is where the palace is located:

Casa Milà was built between 1906 and 1913 by Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona, ​​Spain, at number 92 Passeig de Gràcia, in the expansion area of ​​Eixample, commissioned by Roser Segimon and Pere Milà.
Casa Milà is located in the heart of the Eixample, a neighborhood that arose in the second half of the 19th century based on a design by Ildefons Cerdà i Sunyer, who resolved the dramatic housing emergencies of the historic neighborhood by building a dense network of wide, perpendicular, uniform streets and large, airy, bright building complexes.
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The seductive shapes of Casa Milà, known as La Pedrera, Barcelona – Les formes convaincantes de la Casa Milà, connue sous le nom de la Pedrera, Barcelone – Las formas persuasivas de la Casa Milà, conocida como la Pedrera, Barcelona – As formas persuasivas da Casa Milà, conhecida como la Pedrera, Barcelona – Die überzeugenden Formen der Casa Milà, bekannt als la Pedrera, Barcelona – Những hình dáng đầy sức thuyết phục của Casa Milà, được mệnh danh là la Pedrera, Barcelona

The text of the post was written with the help of ChatGPT, a language model from OpenAI.

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The flower called pansy

La viola del pensiero

The flower called pansy.
Pansy, scientifically known as *Viola tricolor*, is one of the most loved and cultivated flowering plants in gardens around the world. Belonging to the Violaceae family, this flower is appreciated not only for its colorful beauty but also for its deep cultural symbolism.
Pansy is an annual or perennial herbaceous plant, depending on the climatic conditions. It grows to a height of about 15-20 cm and forms a rosette of oval, serrated basal leaves. The flowers, which bloom from early spring until autumn, are known for their variety of colors that include shades of purple, blue, yellow, white and even black.
Each flower has five petals: the two upper petals are often a different color than the three lower ones, creating an attractive contrast that resembles a smiling face, hence the name “pansy”. This unique appearance is one of the reasons why pansies are so popular among gardeners.
Pansies are relatively easy to grow and require little care. Here are some tips for successful cultivation:
1. **Location**: They prefer sunny or partially shaded positions. Adequate exposure to sunlight helps promote abundant flowering.
2. **Soil**: They prefer fertile, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is helpful to add compost to the soil before planting.
3. **Watering**: They should be watered regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. It is important to avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
4. **Fertiliser**: A balanced fertiliser can be applied monthly during the growing season to encourage flower development.
5. **Pruning**: Removing faded flowers stimulates the production of new buds and prolongs the flowering period.
The pansy has a long history of symbolism that varies from culture to culture. In general, it is often associated with thought, memory and love.
In the language of flowers, the pansy is often associated with affectionate thoughts and romantic feelings. Giving one as a gift means saying “I am thinking of you” or “You are on my mind”.
Due to its ability to flower for long periods, it is also a symbol of reflection and lasting memory. It is often planted in memorial gardens.
In Christian tradition, the pansy is seen as a symbol of the Trinity, due to its shape that resembles three faces in one.
The pansy is versatile and can be used in various ways in the garden: it is perfect for creating colorful borders and for filling flowerbeds with its bright flowers; grown in pots and containers, the pansy adds color to terraces and balconies. Thanks to its compact size, it is also ideal for rock gardens.

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Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Tamron 16-300.

The nursery I went to is: Gaggero Nurseries in Carasco.

The pansy (Viola tricolor L.), also called the tricolor viola, is a plant of the Violaceae family,[1] known mainly for its flower. Very common in Europe, it grows as a wild and perennial plant. It was introduced in North America, where it has become very widespread. It is the progenitor of the cultivated pansy (i.e. Viola × wittrockiana), and is therefore sometimes called wild pansy precisely to distinguish it from the hybrid variety that is very widespread for ornamental purposes.
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The flower called pansy – La fleur appelée pensée – La flor llamada pensamiento. – A flor chamada amor-perfeito – Die Blume heißt Stiefmütterchen – Loài hoa có tên là Pansy

The text of the post was written with the help of ChatGPT, a language model from OpenAI.

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The ancient Roman Amphitheatre of Assisi

L'antico Anfiteatro Romano di Assisi

The ancient Roman Amphitheatre of Assisi.
In the picturesque town of Assisi, famous for its medieval and spiritual atmosphere, lies an archaeological treasure of inestimable historical value: the Roman Amphitheatre. This ancient monument, dating back to the Roman imperial era, represents not only a piece of the city's history, but also a tangible symbol of the passage of centuries and cultures that have shaped the Umbrian territory.
The Roman Amphitheatre of Assisi was built during the 1st century AD, during a period of great expansion of the Roman Empire. Located on the northern edge of the ancient city, the amphitheatre was a hub of recreational and social activities for the inhabitants of Assisium (the ancient name of Assisi). This monument bears witness to the past glories of the Empire, when Assisi was an important Roman urban center.
The amphitheater was built according to the classical Roman model: an elliptical structure with steps that could accommodate thousands of spectators. Used for gladiator fights, circus games and other public events, the amphitheater was a place where the power and greatness of the Roman Empire was displayed.
Over the years, the Roman Amphitheater has been the subject of various archaeological excavations that have brought to light numerous finds, including remains of walls, underground corridors and architectural decorations. These findings have allowed archaeologists to accurately reconstruct the original structure and better understand daily life in the Roman city of Assisi.
The amphitheater has been carefully preserved to preserve its integrity and make it accessible to the public. Today, visitors can admire the ruins of the ancient structure and immerse themselves in Assisi’s thousand-year history through guided tours and informative exhibits on site.
The Roman Amphitheater is not only a testament to ancient Roman grandeur, but also a major tourist attraction for Assisi. With its imposing and evocative presence, the amphitheater attracts visitors from all over the world eager to explore Umbria’s cultural and archaeological heritage.
For local residents, the amphitheater is a point of historical pride and a symbol of the city’s continuity through the centuries. Its presence in the urban fabric of Assisi enriches its cultural identity and strengthens its connection with its Roman past.

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L'antico Anfiteatro Romano di Assisi

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon RF 24-50.

To see all the photos of Assisi click here:

Here is where the amphitheater is located:

The ancient Roman Amphitheatre of Assisi – L’ancien amphithéâtre romain d’Assise – El antiguo anfiteatro romano de Asís – O antigo Anfiteatro Romano de Assis – Das antike römische Amphitheater von Assisi – Nhà hát vòng tròn La Mã cổ đại của Assisi

The text of the post was written with the help of ChatGPT, a language model from OpenAI.

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The Carlo Felice Theatre in Piazza De Ferrari in Genoa

Il Teatro Carlo Felice in piazza De Ferrari a Genova

The Carlo Felice Theater in Piazza De Ferrari in Genoa.
In the beating heart of Genoa, surrounded by the majesty of the historic Piazza De Ferrari, stands a symbol of culture and art that has spanned centuries of Italian history: the Carlo Felice Theater. This theater, with its imposing architecture and rich artistic tradition, represents not only a place of entertainment, but a fundamental cultural reference point for the city and for the entire nation.
The Carlo Felice Theater was inaugurated in 1828, designed by the Genoese architect Carlo Barabino, and takes its name from the sovereign Carlo Felice of Savoy. Strategically located in Piazza De Ferrari, the heart of Genoa, the theatre stands out with its neoclassical façade, characterised by Doric columns and an imposing staircase that invites the visitor to explore its magnificence.
During the Second World War, the theatre suffered serious damage due to the bombings, but it was carefully restored and reopened to the public in 1991, maintaining its original beauty and artistic prestige intact.
The Teatro Carlo Felice is not only an architectural monument, but a vibrant place of creativity and entertainment. Its varied programming ranges from opera to ballet, from classical music to contemporary theatre, welcoming internationally renowned artists and emerging talents.
Each season, the theatre offers a selection of refined and innovative productions, curated by world-famous directors and artists. It is a place where tradition and innovation converge, where the past blends with the present to create unforgettable artistic experiences.
In addition to its artistic value, the Teatro Carlo Felice represents a cultural hub that significantly contributes to the cultural and social vibrancy of Genoa. Through its programming, the theater promotes artistic diversity and stimulates cultural debate, becoming a meeting place for art lovers, musicians, dancers and theater lovers of all ages.
Its central location in Piazza De Ferrari makes it accessible to residents and visitors, serving as a reference point for Genoese and Italian culture as a whole.
Visiting the Teatro Carlo Felice is not just watching a show, but immersing yourself in an experience that unites past and present, art and emotion, in an unforgettable combination that only such a special place can offer.

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Il Teatro Carlo Felice in piazza De Ferrari a Genova

Il Teatro Carlo Felice in piazza De Ferrari a Genova

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon EF-S 10-18.

This is the link to the official website: operacarlofelicegenova.it.

Where is the theater:

The Teatro Carlo Felice is the main theatre in the city of Genoa and one of the most famous in Italy. The Opera and Ballet season and the Symphonic season are held there, as well as recitals and various events.
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The Carlo Felice Theatre in Piazza De Ferrari in Genoa – Le Théâtre Carlo Felice sur la Piazza De Ferrari à Gênes – El Teatro Carlo Felice en Piazza De Ferrari en Génova – O Teatro Carlo Felice na Piazza De Ferrari em Gênova – Das Carlo Felice Theater auf der Piazza De Ferrari in Genua – Nhà hát Carlo Felice ở Quảng trường De Ferrari ở Genoa

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Saffron risotto or Milanese risotto, the recipe

Il risotto allo zafferano o alla milanese, la ricetta

Saffron risotto or Milanese risotto, the recipe.
Every now and then I love to enjoy a plate of saffron risotto and some time ago, the Chef on board, satisfied me with this dish!
Saffron risotto, also known as Milanese risotto, is one of the symbolic dishes of Lombard cuisine and the city of Milan. This delicacy, characterized by its intense yellow color and rich and creamy flavor, is perfect for delighting the palate on special occasions or simply to pamper yourself with a traditional dish. Let's see together how to prepare it.

Ingredients (for 4 people):

– 320 g of Carnaroli or Arborio rice;
– 1 l of meat broth (preferably beef);
– 1 small onion;
– 1 sachet of saffron (about 0.15 g);
– 50 g of butter;
– 50 g of grated Parmigiano Reggiano;
– 1 glass of dry white wine;
– 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil;
– Salt to taste;
– Black pepper to taste (optional).

Preparation

First, prepare the broth, if possible, homemade with beef, celery, carrot and onion. Alternatively, you can use ready-made meat broth or a stock cube dissolved in hot water.
Then finely chop the onion. In a large, low saucepan, melt half the butter together with the extra virgin olive oil. Add the chopped onion and let it soften over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes transparent.
Add the rice to the saucepan with the onion and toast it for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly. This step is essential to seal the grain and keep it al dente during cooking. Add the white wine and let the alcohol evaporate, continuing to stir.
Once the wine has evaporated, start adding the hot broth a ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait for the broth to be absorbed before adding the next ladle.
After about 10 minutes of cooking, dissolve the saffron in a ladle of hot broth and add it to the risotto. Continue cooking, adding broth until the rice is al dente (about 18-20 minutes in total).
When the risotto is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat. Add the remaining butter and the grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Stir vigorously to blend the risotto, obtaining a creamy and smooth consistency.
Taste and adjust the salt, if necessary. If desired, add a sprinkling of freshly ground black pepper.
Let the risotto rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Divide it among the plates and, if you like, decorate with a few saffron pistils.
Tips.
Quality of ingredients: using high-quality ingredients, especially rice, broth and Parmigiano Reggiano, will make the difference in the final result.
Consistency in cooking: continuously stirring the risotto during cooking helps to release the starch from the rice, giving the dish its characteristic creaminess.
Variation: for an extra touch of flavour, you can add beef marrow to the onion during the sautéing phase, following the Milanese tradition.
Saffron risotto is a dish that combines simplicity and refinement, capable of conquering even the most demanding palates. Enjoy your meal!

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Photo taken with Honor 20.

Risotto alla Milanese (also called yellow rice and saffron risotto, ris sgiald or risot a la milanesa in the Lombard language) is, together with cotoletta alla Milanese and panettone, the most typical and well-known dish of Milan. It is a risotto whose main ingredients, in addition to those needed to prepare a white risotto, are saffron, from which its characteristic yellow color derives, and beef marrow. It can also be served as a side dish for ossobuco, another typical Milanese dish.
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Saffron or Milanese risotto, the recipe – Risotto au safran ou milanais, la recette – Risotto al azafrán o milanesa, la receta – Risoto de açafrão ou milanês, a receita – Safran- oder Mailänder Risotto, das Rezept – Công thức nấu món risotto nghệ tây hoặc Milanese

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The iconic W Hotel, Vela, in Barcelona

L'iconico Hotel W, Vela, a Barcellona

The iconic W Hotel, Vela, in Barcelona.
Located on the beautiful Barceloneta beach, the W Hotel in Barcelona is one of the most iconic hotels in the city. With its distinctive sail-shaped architecture and its privileged location on the seafront, the W Hotel is a symbol of luxury, style and innovation. This impressive building is not only an exclusive place to stay, but also a reference point for the social and cultural life of Barcelona.
Designed by the renowned architect Ricardo Bofill, the W Hotel, also known as “Hotel Vela” due to its shape that resembles a sail inflated by the wind, rises majestically above the sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the city. Opened in 2009, the hotel has quickly become an icon of the modern Barcelona skyline. With its 26 floors and a height of 99 meters, the W Hotel dominates the skyline, perfectly integrating with the coastal landscape.
The W Hotel Barcelona offers 473 rooms and suites, all decorated with a contemporary design and equipped with high-end amenities. The large windows allow you to enjoy spectacular views, while the elegant and modern interiors create a refined and welcoming atmosphere. Every detail is taken care of to ensure guests have an unforgettable experience, from the impeccable service to the luxury amenities.
The gastronomic proposal of the W Hotel is equally impressive. The Salt restaurant, located on the beach, offers a unique culinary experience with dishes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, while the Bravo24 restaurant, managed by the starred chef Carles Abellán, offers an innovative menu that combines tradition and modernity. In addition, the Eclipse Bar, located on the 26th floor, is the ideal place to enjoy creative cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the sea.
The W Hotel is not only synonymous with luxury, but also with wellness and entertainment. The WET® Deck infinity pool, overlooking the sea, is the perfect place to relax under the Spanish sun, while the Bliss® Spa offers a wide range of treatments for the body and mind. For fitness enthusiasts, the FIT® Gym is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment.
The W Hotel Barcelona is also a major center for events and entertainment. Its numerous conference rooms and event spaces make it ideal for hosting corporate meetings, weddings and private parties. Each event can be customized down to the smallest details, ensuring a unique and memorable experience.
The W Hotel is also committed to environmental sustainability. It has adopted several green practices to reduce its environmental impact, such as the use of renewable energy, efficient waste management and the promotion of environmental awareness initiatives among guests.
Hotel W Barcelona is more than just a place to stay: it is a luxury experience that combines iconic architecture, exceptional comfort, gourmet cuisine and a range of services dedicated to well-being and entertainment. Located in one of the most charming locations in the city, it is an unmissable destination for those who want to experience the best that Barcelona has to offer. Whether it is a business trip, a romantic holiday or a relaxing escape, Hotel W is the ideal place for an unforgettable stay.

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L'iconico Hotel W, Vela, a Barcellona

L'iconico Hotel W, Vela, a Barcellona

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Tamron 16-300.

To see all the photos I took over time in Barcelona click here:

Here is where the palace is located:

The W Barcelona, ​​also known as Hotel Vela is a building designed by Ricardo Bofill, located in Barcelona in the neighborhood of La Barceloneta. The hotel opened on September 1, 2009 and cost approximately 260 million euros. The urban mission of the project was to provide a southern extension of the city to the coast. At the time of the project, the building consisted of a sail-shaped tower 160 meters high. The city council, however, forced the architect to lower the height to 99 meters so as not to alter the skyline of Barcelona.
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The iconic Hotel W, Vela, in Barcelona – L’emblématique Hôtel W, Vela, à Barcelone – El icónico Hotel W, Vela, en Barcelona – O icônico Hotel W, Vela, em Barcelona – Das ikonische Hotel W, Vela, in Barcelona – Khách sạn W, Vela mang tính biểu tượng ở Barcelona

The text of the post was written with the help of ChatGPT, a language model from OpenAI.

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The famous Piazza San Babila in Milan

La famosa piazza San Babila a Milano

The famous Piazza San Babila in Milan.
Located in the beating heart of Milan, Piazza San Babila is one of the most famous and iconic squares in the city. This urban space is not only an important traffic hub, but also a historical, cultural and commercial landmark. With its distinctive architecture and strategic location, Piazza San Babila represents a perfect combination of Milanese tradition and modernity.
The square takes its name from the Church of San Babila, one of the oldest religious buildings in Milan, dating back to the 4th century. The church was built on the ruins of an ancient pagan temple and has undergone numerous modifications and restorations over the centuries. The current structure, which dominates the square, is the result of interventions that took place during the 17th and 18th centuries, while maintaining its historical charm intact.
Piazza San Babila has long been a fundamental crossroads for Milanese commerce and culture. In the 1930s, with the expansion of the city and the development of the surrounding neighborhood, the square took on a new urban dimension. The opening of numerous shops, cafes and restaurants transformed San Babila into a meeting place for citizens and tourists, consolidating its role as a hub for shopping and social life.
One of the distinctive elements of Piazza San Babila is the mix of architectural styles that characterizes it. Alongside the historic buildings, there are modern constructions that reflect the urban development of Milan. Among these, the building designed by Giovanni Muzio in the 1930s stands out, with its characteristic portico and clean lines that represent an example of rationalist architecture.
In the 1950s and 1960s, the square underwent further transformations, with the construction of new commercial and residential buildings that helped define the current skyline. The Snia Viscosa Tower, with its innovative design for the time, is one of the symbols of this phase of development.
Today, Piazza San Babila continues to be a vital meeting point for Milanese people and visitors. Its central location makes it easily accessible and well connected to the city's main attractions, such as the Milan Cathedral, the Teatro alla Scala and the Quadrilatero della Moda. The square regularly hosts cultural events, demonstrations and promotional initiatives, confirming its role as one of the hubs of city life.
In recent years, Piazza San Babila has been the subject of a major urban redevelopment project. The aim was to improve the usability of the public space, making it more welcoming and safe for pedestrians. The project included the reorganization of traffic, the creation of new green areas and the redevelopment of the pavements. These interventions have further enhanced the square, making it even more attractive and functional.
Piazza San Babila represents a perfect synthesis of the history and modernity of Milan. From an ancient place of worship to a commercial and cultural center, the square has been able to adapt to the changes of the city, maintaining its relevance intact. Today, as yesterday, San Babila continues to be a symbol of Milanese dynamism and elegance, a place where the past and the present meet in a harmonious balance.

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La famosa piazza San Babila a Milano

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon RF 24-50.

Click here if you want to see all the photos I took:
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Here's where the square is located:

Long a favorite meeting point for the Milanese upper middle class, the square takes its name from the Basilica of San Babila, the oldest building overlooking it. The buildings that most characterize it, however, date back to the 1930s. Corso Vittorio Emanuele II (which connects it to Piazza del Duomo), Corso Matteotti, Corso Venezia, Corso Monforte and Corso Europa branch off from it.
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The famous square called San Babila in Milan – La célèbre place San Babila à Milan – La famosa plaza llamada San Babila en Milán – A famosa praça chamada San Babila em Milão – Der berühmte Platz namens San Babila in Mailand – Quảng trường nổi tiếng San Babila ở Milan

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The Castellani Chapel in Santa Croce

La Cappella Castellani nella Basilica di Santa Croce a Firenze

The Castellani Chapel in the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence.
The Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence, famous for being the burial place of illustrious Italian personalities, is home to several chapels of extraordinary artistic and historical value. Among these, the Castellani Chapel stands out for its rich history and cultural significance.
The Castellani Chapel takes its name from the Castellani family, one of the oldest and most influential Florentine families. Located along the right side of the main nave of the basilica, the chapel was commissioned by the family during the 14th century, a period of great prosperity for Florence. The Castellani family, known for their devotion and patronage, wanted to create a sacred space that reflected their faith and social status.
The architectural structure of the chapel follows the typical Florentine Gothic style, characterized by pointed arches and cross vaults. The walls of the chapel are enriched with frescoes and stucco decorations, which show the mastery of the artists of the time.
One of the most notable features of the Castellani Chapel is the cycle of frescoes created by Agnolo Gaddi, a famous 14th-century painter. These frescoes, which represent scenes from the life of St. John the Evangelist and the Virgin Mary, are exemplary of Florentine Gothic for their chromatic vivacity and the delicacy of the figures.
Over the centuries, the chapel has undergone various restoration interventions to preserve its works of art. One of the most significant restorations was carried out in the 19th century, when the chapel was the subject of a large recovery campaign that allowed the original beauty of the frescoes to be returned to the public.
The Castellani Chapel is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of the rich cultural and historical heritage of Florence. It represents a tangible example of the patronage of Florentine families and their contribution to the development of art and architecture in the city.
Every year, thousands of tourists visit the Basilica of Santa Croce to admire its many chapels, including the Castellani Chapel, evidence of an era in which Florence was at the center of the Renaissance and European culture.

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La Cappella Castellani nella Basilica di Santa Croce a Firenze

Photo taken with Canon EOS M100 and lens Canon EF-M 11-22.

This is the official website: santacroceopera.it.

To see all the photos of the basilica click here:

The Castellani Chapel, with a double span, was frescoed by his son Agnolo Gaddi with assistants and presents Stories of the saints Anthony the Abbot, John the Baptist, John the Evangelist and Nicholas of Bari. The tabernacle of the chapel is the work of Mino da Fiesole, while the painted cross is by Niccolò Gerini. The statues of the Robbian school represent Saint Francis and Saint Dominic, while among the tombstones, the one of Luisa Stolberg, Countess of Albany, stands out, a work in neo-Renaissance style by Luigi Giovannozzi and Emilio Santarelli based on a design by Charles Percier.
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The Castellani Chapel in the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence – La chapelle Castellani dans la basilique Santa Croce de Florence – La Capilla Castellani en la Basílica de Santa Croce en Florencia – A Capela Castellani na Basílica de Santa Croce em Florença – Die Castellani-Kapelle in der Basilika Santa Croce in Florenz – Nhà nguyện Castellani trong Vương cung thánh đường Santa Croce ở Florence

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A prickly pear on the sea near Recco

Un fico d'India sul mare nei pressi di Recco

A prickly pear on the sea near Recco.
The prickly pear, scientifically known as Opuntia ficus-indica, is a succulent plant native to the Americas, but which has found a second home in the Mediterranean basin and in many other regions of the world. This exotic fruit, with its characteristic spiny paddles and its colorful fruits, has become a symbol of resilience and adaptability. But beyond its fascinating aesthetics, the prickly pear offers numerous nutritional benefits and plays an important role in the culinary and medicinal cultures of the areas where it is grown.
The prickly pear has ancient origins, dating back thousands of years to the desert regions of Mexico and the Southwest of the United States. The Aztecs and other pre-Columbian civilizations exploited its fruits and paddles (cladodes) for various food and medicinal purposes. With the arrival of European explorers in the 15th century, the plant was introduced to Europe and from there it quickly spread to the Mediterranean regions, Africa, Asia and even Australia.
The prickly pear is a perennial plant that can reach considerable heights, up to 4-5 meters. It is made up of flat, oval segments called cladodes, commonly known as “paddles”. These cladodes are covered with small spines, called glochids, which can easily penetrate the skin and are difficult to remove. The flowers, which bloom in spring and summer, are large and showy, usually yellow, orange or red, and give rise to the edible fruit.
The fruits of the prickly pear, called prickly pears, are fleshy and sweet berries with a thick, spiny skin. The color of the fruit varies from yellow to deep red, passing through various shades of orange and green. Inside, the pulp is juicy and contains numerous small, hard seeds. The fruits are usually harvested in late summer and early fall and are eaten fresh, used to make juices, jams, liqueurs and even sweets.
The prickly pear is a nutrient-dense fruit. It is a good source of vitamin C, fiber, magnesium and antioxidants. The young leaves, called “nopales” in Mexico, are also edible and contain vitamins, minerals and fiber, in addition to being used in various traditional dishes. Recent studies have shown that the prickly pear can have beneficial effects on digestive health, blood glucose regulation and weight control, due to its high fiber content and low caloric density.
In Mediterranean and Latin American cuisine, the prickly pear plays a prominent role. The fruits are eaten fresh, but also made into jams, jellies and juices. In Mexico, nopales are a common ingredient in salads, stews and tacos. In addition to its culinary uses, the plant is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, from inflammation to digestive issues.
In more recent times, prickly pears have been the subject of scientific interest for their potential medicinal and cosmetic properties. Extracts of the plant are used in skin care products for their moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The hardy and adaptable prickly pear is an example of how plants can thrive in harsh conditions while still offering a myriad of benefits. From a staple of traditional diets to the subject of modern scientific research, the plant continues to surprise and delight. Whether for its unique taste, nutritional value, or medicinal uses, prickly pears deserve a place of honor among the world’s botanical treasures.

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Un fico d'India sul mare nei pressi di Recco

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Tamron 16-300.

The prickly pear or prickly pear is a plant native to Mexico. From here, in ancient times, it spread among the populations of Central America who cultivated and traded it already at the time of the Aztecs, among whom it was considered a sacred plant with strong symbolic values.
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A prickly pear on the sea near Recco – Une figue de Barbarie sur la mer près de Recco – Una tuna en el mar cerca de Recco – Uma pera espinhosa no mar perto de Recco – Ein Feigenkaktus am Meer in der Nähe von Recco – Một quả lê gai trên biển gần Recco

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