The Labours of Hercules at Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola

Le Fatiche di Ercole a Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola

The Labors of Hercules at Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola.
In the heart of Genoa, on Via degli Orefici, is one of the most fascinating portals in the city: The Labors of Hercules at Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola. This sixteenth-century portal, attributed to the master Giacomo Della Porta, is a true masterpiece of sculpture and symbolism.
The portal is decorated with two imposing telamons that rest on monstrous heads: a leonine one and a snarling human one. On the left, a bearded Hercules, wrapped in the skin of the Nemean lion, holds his famous club, obtained from a wild olive tree from Mount Helicon. On the right, a hairless farmer with a relaxed face, also with a club in his hand. At the base of the telamons, two reliefs depict Hercules: one seated with the club and the other in full combat with a lion.
The metopes of the portal feature helmets with screaming heads, clipei and bucrania alternating with corbel triglyphs. In the center, the enigmatic head of winged Medusa stands out. On the entablature, two elegant female figures with drapes and amphorae at the sides frame a moustached mask, placed to replace the original family crest, removed during the Napoleonic period.
This portal is not only an example of artistic mastery, but also a symbol of the rich history of Genoa and its traditions. Walking along Via degli Orefici, one cannot help but admire this hidden treasure, which tells stories of mythological heroes and a glorious past.

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Le Fatiche di Ercole a Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola

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

Where is the palace:

For the Genoese it is known as the Labours of Hercules and is the spectacular door of Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola at number 7 of Via Orefici. The sixteenth-century portal is attributed to the master Giacomo Della Porta: on the jambs two telamons rest on monstrous heads (a leonine and a snarling human).
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The Labours of Hercules at Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola – Les travaux d’Hercule au Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola – Los trabajos de Hércules en el Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola – Os Trabalhos de Hércules no Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola – Die Taten des Herkules im Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola – Công trình của Hercules tại Palazzo Gio Batta Spinola

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References:
– https://www.amezena.net/edicole-e-portali/le-fatiche-di-ercole/
– https://www.amezena.net/i-caruggi/via-degli-orefici/

A glimpse of St. Mark's Square in Venice

Uno scorcio di piazza San Marco a Venezia

A glimpse of St. Mark's Square in Venice.
St. Mark's Square, located in the heart of Venice, is one of the most iconic and fascinating places in the world. Also known as "The Drawing Room of Europe", this square is a masterpiece of architecture and history, attracting millions of visitors every year.
The square is surrounded by historical buildings of great importance, including St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Campanile, the Doge's Palace and the Procuratie Vecchie and Procuratie Nuove. Every corner of the square tells a story, with its architecture reflecting centuries of Venetian art and culture. St. Mark's Basilica, with its facade decorated with mosaics and bas-reliefs, is a splendid example of Byzantine and Gothic art.
One of the most fascinating elements of the square is the Clock Tower, built in the 15th century. This tower not only marks the time, but is also a symbol of the wealth and power of the Republic of Venice. Every hour, the statues of the Moors strike their bells, offering a unique spectacle to visitors.
Piazza San Marco is also a vibrant hub of life and culture. Historic cafés such as Caffè Florian and Caffè Quadri offer a perfect place to relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the square. These cafés have hosted world-famous artists, writers and musicians, helping to create an environment rich in creativity and inspiration.
Walking through Piazza San Marco is an experience that will remain etched in your memory. The view of the Doge's Palace, with its elegant arches and its history of power and intrigue, is simply breathtaking. The gondolas gliding along the adjacent canals add a touch of romance to this already magical place.
Piazza San Marco offers a window into Venice's glorious past and a taste of its timeless beauty. Whether admiring the architecture, enjoying a coffee or simply strolling, every visit to this square is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Serenissima.

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Uno scorcio di piazza San Marco a Venezia

Photo taken with Honor 20.

Instead, to learn more about the Basilica of San Marco, I recommend its official website.

To see all the other photos of Venice click here.
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Here's where exactly it is located:

The bell tower of San Marco is one of the most important symbols of the city of Venice. Together with the basilica of the same name and the square below it, from which it takes its name, it is the main monument of Venice and one of the symbols of Italy. Venetians affectionately call it El parón de casa (The master of the house). 98.6 meters high, it is one of the tallest bell towers in Italy, standing alone in a corner of Piazza San Marco, in front of the basilica. Simple in shape, it is made up of a square-plan, fluted brick barrel, with a side of 12 meters and about 50 meters high, above which is the bell chamber, with arches.
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A glimpse of St. Mark’s Square in Venice – Un aperçu de la place Saint-Marc à Venise – Un vistazo a la Piazza San Marco en Venecia – Um vislumbre da Praça de São Marcos em Veneza – Ein Blick auf den Markusplatz in Venedig – Một cái nhìn thoáng qua về Quảng trường San Marco ở Venice

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Preikestolen: The Pulpit Rock near Stavanger

Il Preikestolen: il pulpito in roccia vicino a Stavanger

Preikestolen: The Pulpit Rock near Stavanger.
Stavanger, located on the southwest coast of Norway, is a fascinating city with a rich history. Known as the “Oil Capital” of Norway, Stavanger offers much more than its energy resources. It is the perfect starting point to explore some of the country’s most spectacular natural wonders, including the famous Preikestolen.
Preikestolen is an imposing rock formation that rises approximately 600 metres above the Lysefjord. Its flat summit offers breathtaking views of the fjord below, making it one of Norway’s most popular hiking destinations. Every year, thousands of visitors make the trek to this incredible natural terrace and take in the views.
Getting to Preikestolen from Stavanger is easy and offers several options. You can take a bus to Tau, followed by a short taxi ride to the starting point of the hike. Alternatively, you can opt for an organised tour that includes transport and an experienced guide. For those who prefer the freedom of a car, the drive from Stavanger to Preikestolen takes about an hour.
The Preikestolen hike is suitable for hikers of all levels, although it does require good physical condition. The trail, which is approximately 8 kilometres round trip, passes through varied landscapes, including forests, lakes and rocks. The route is well marked and has plenty of scenic spots to stop for a rest and photos.
Appropriate Clothing: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing, as the weather can change quickly.
Water and Snacks: Bring enough water and snacks to keep you energised during the hike.
Safety: Always follow the signs and stay on the trail to avoid danger.
A visit to Stavanger is not complete without a hike to Preikestolen. This unique experience will allow you to immerse yourself in Norway's natural beauty and create unforgettable memories. Whether you are a nature lover, a hiking enthusiast or simply looking for adventure, Preikestolen is a must-see destination.

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Photo taken with Honor 20.

To see all the photos along the trail, click here:

Where is the pulpit located:

Preikestolen, as it is called in Norwegian Nynorsk (Prekestolen in Norwegian Bokmål, Pulpit Rock in Italian, Hyvlatonnå in Old Norwegian), is a 604-metre-high granite cliff that ends sheer above the Lysefjord, opposite the Kjeragbolten, near the village of Forsand, in the municipality of Sandnes, Norway.
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Preikestolen: The Pulpit Rock near Stavanger – Le Preikestolen : la chaire rocheuse près de Stavanger – El Preikestolen: el púlpito de roca cerca de Stavanger – O Preikestolen: o púlpito de pedra perto de Stavanger – Der Preikestolen: die Felskanzel bei Stavanger – Preikestolen: bục giảng đá gần Stavanger

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The staircase of the Palazzo dei Priori in Perugia

La scalinata del Palazzo dei Priori a Perugia

The staircase of the Palazzo dei Priori in Perugia.
The Palazzo dei Priori, located in the heart of Perugia, is one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in Italy. Built between 1293 and 1443, this historic building now houses the Town Hall and the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria.
One of the most fascinating elements of the Palace is its fan-shaped staircase, designed by the Sienese architect Ambrogio Maitani. This staircase, which leads to the Sala dei Notari and the Sala della Vaccara, was added in 1902, replacing an earlier one with two flights. The staircase is crowned by bronze copies of the Perugian Griffin and the Guelph Lion, symbols of the city, which add a touch of majesty to the main entrance.
The staircase is not only an architectural element, but also a symbol of the history and culture of Perugia. Every step tells a story, every detail reflects the art and skill of the craftsmen who built it. Visiting the Palazzo dei Priori and climbing this staircase means taking a journey through time, immersing yourself in the rich medieval heritage of the city.
If you find yourself in Perugia, do not miss the opportunity to admire this architectural wonder and explore the historic rooms of the Palazzo dei Priori. It is an experience that will leave you breathless and will make you appreciate even more the beauty and history of this fascinating Umbrian city.

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La scalinata del Palazzo dei Priori a Perugia

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

Here is where the palace is located:

The Palazzo dei Priori, or municipal, is one of the best examples in Italy of a public building from the communal era. It stands in the central Piazza IV Novembre in Perugia, Umbria. It extends along Corso Vannucci to Via Boncambi. It still houses part of the Town Hall and, on the third floor, the National Gallery of Umbria. It owes its name to the Priors, the highest political authority in the government of the city in the Middle Ages.
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The staircase of the Palazzo dei Priori in Perugia – L’escalier du Palazzo dei Priori à Pérouse – La escalera del Palazzo dei Priori en Perugia – A escadaria do Palazzo dei Priori em Perugia – Die Treppe des Palazzo dei Priori in Perugia – Cầu thang của Palazzo dei Priori ở Perugia

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The houses in the Bryggen district in Bergen, Norway

Le case del quartiere di Bryggen a Bergen in Norvegia

The houses of Bryggen in Bergen, Norway.
Bryggen, the historic heart of Bergen, is one of Norway's most iconic sights. This charming district, with its characteristic colorful wooden houses, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
The houses of Bryggen date back to the 14th century, when Bergen was an important trading center for the Hanseatic League. These wooden structures, with their sloping roofs and bright facades, have been faithfully rebuilt after numerous fires, maintaining their medieval appearance.
Wandering through the narrow streets of Bryggen is like taking a trip back in time. The houses now house craft shops, art galleries and cozy cafés. Don't miss the chance to visit the Hanseatic Museum, which offers an in-depth look at the lives of merchants of the time.
Bryggen is located on the eastern side of Vågen Bay, an easy walk from the center of Bergen. Bus lines 10, 18, 103 and 200 stop nearby, making it easy for visitors to access.
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast or simply looking for a picturesque place to explore, Bryggen is a must-see. Its colorful houses and unique atmosphere will leave you breathless.

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Le case del quartiere di Bryggen a Bergen in Norvegia

Photo taken with Honor 20.

To see all the photos I took in Bergen click here

Where is the neighborhood located:

Bryggen (Norwegian for wharf or landing place), also called Tyskebryggen (German or German Landing) is the historic waterfront district of the city of Bergen in Norway, consisting of wooden houses built in rows and home to the merchants of the Hanseatic League from the 14th to the 18th century. The district occupies the entire eastern side of Vågen Bay.
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The houses in the Bryggen district in Bergen, Norway – Les maisons du quartier de Bryggen à Bergen, Norvège – Las casas del barrio de Bryggen en Bergen, Noruega – As casas do bairro Bryggen em Bergen, Noruega – Die Häuser des Stadtteils Bryggen in Bergen, Norwegen – Những ngôi nhà ở khu phố Bryggen ở Bergen, Na Uy

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The village of Trevi seen from the meadows surrounding it

Il borgo di Trevi visto dai prati che lo circondano

The village of Trevi seen from the meadows that surround it.
Nestled in the heart of Umbria, the village of Trevi stands majestically on a hill, surrounded by flowery meadows and olive groves that enhance its beauty. This small town, located between Foligno and Spoleto, is a true medieval jewel that offers breathtaking views and an atmosphere of times gone by.
Observing Trevi from the surrounding meadows, you can appreciate its spiral structure, with stone houses that climb the hill in concentric circles. This particular urban layout not only gives the village a unique charm, but also allows you to enjoy spectacular views of the Umbrian Valley. The meadows surrounding Trevi are dotted with centuries-old olive trees, which produce an olive oil of the highest quality, so much so that the village has been awarded the title of City of Oil.
Trevi boasts an ancient history, with origins dating back to Roman times. The city walls, built in the 1st century BC, bear witness to the glorious past of the village, while the medieval gates, such as Porta del Bruscito and Porta San Fabiano, invite visitors to discover the historic center. Walking through the narrow, paved streets, you can admire ancient churches, noble palaces and precious frescoes that tell centuries of history and culture.
Visiting Trevi means immersing yourself in a unique sensory experience. The scents of the Umbrian countryside, the flavor of extra virgin olive oil and the view of green meadows that stretch as far as the eye can see create a perfect combination of nature and culture. The village also offers numerous opportunities for excursions and walks, allowing visitors to explore the surroundings and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the Umbrian landscape.
Trevi is also a place rich in traditions and cultural events. Throughout the year, the village hosts numerous events celebrating local culture, such as the Festa dell’Olio Nuovo, which attracts visitors from all over Italy to taste the freshly produced oil and participate in food and wine and folkloristic events.

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

To see all the photos I took in the village click here:

Here is where the village is located:

In the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance it had its best period, characterized by extraordinary trade that favored its economic prosperity (it was called "the dry port"), still testified today by the numerous buildings in the historic center, worthy of appearing in much larger cities, and the economic growth was accompanied by lively cultural and social activity. Already in 1469, to favor the circulation of money a Jewish banker was called, one of the few professions to which those men were authorized, and despite this he was persecuted and later one of the very first Monti di Pietà was erected, followed later by the Monte Frumentario and various other charitable and welfare institutions.
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The village of Trevi seen from the meadows surrounding it – Le village de Trevi vu depuis les prairies qui l’entourent – El pueblo de Trevi visto desde los prados que lo rodean – A aldeia de Trevi vista dos prados que a rodeiam – Das Dorf Trevi von den Wiesen aus gesehen, die es umgeben – Ngôi làng Trevi nhìn từ đồng cỏ bao quanh

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Some very good sfogliatelle ricce

Alcune buonissime sfogliatelle ricce

Some delicious sfogliatelle riccia.
The Neapolitan sfogliatella is one of the most beloved symbols of Neapolitan pastry making. This dessert, which can be found in two main variations – the sfogliatella riccia and the sfogliatella frolla – is appreciated for its crunchiness and its rich and aromatic filling.
The origins of the sfogliatella date back to the 18th century, when it was first created in the monastery of Santa Rosa, on the Amalfi Coast. The original recipe included a filling of semolina, ricotta, sugar, candied fruit and herbs, enclosed in a crunchy puff pastry. Later, the recipe was perfected and brought to Naples, where it quickly became popular.
Sfogliatella Riccia: this variant is characterized by a very thin and crunchy puff pastry, which envelops the filling in overlapping layers. The preparation requires great skill and patience, as the pastry must be worked for a long time to obtain the right consistency.
Sfogliatella Frolla: in this version, the puff pastry is replaced by a soft and crumbly shortcrust pastry. The filling remains the same, but the overall texture of the dessert is softer and less crunchy than the sfogliatella riccia.
The sfogliatella filling is a true triumph of flavors. The main ingredients include semolina, ricotta, sugar, eggs, candied fruit and flavorings such as cinnamon and vanilla. This mix creates a perfect contrast with the crunchiness of the pastry, making each bite a unique experience.
The Neapolitan sfogliatella is perfect for a delicious breakfast or as a dessert to enjoy at any time of the day. Traditionally, it is served hot, freshly baked, and dusted with icing sugar. Accompanied by a good Neapolitan coffee, it represents a true ritual of pleasure.

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Photo taken with Honor 20.

Sfogliatella (in Neapolitan: ‘a sfugliatèlla) is a typical dessert from the Campania pastry shop and comes in two main variants: it can be curly, if prepared with puff pastry, or shortcrust pastry, if prepared with shortcrust pastry. In 1818, Pasquale Pintauro, a Neapolitan pastry chef, came into possession of the secret recipe of Santarosa, bringing the dessert to Naples, making some changes to the recipe, used to this day, and introducing the shortcrust pastry variant.
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Some very good sfogliatelle ricce – Quelques délicieuses pâtes feuilletées frisées – Unos deliciosos hojaldres rizados – Alguns deliciosos folhados encaracolados – Einige köstliche Blätterteiggebäcke – Một số loại bánh phồng cuộn thơm ngon

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The beautiful Fuga gate in the city of Spoleto

La bella Porta Fuga nella città di Spoleto

The beautiful Porta Fuga in the city of Spoleto.
The city of Spoleto, located in the heart of Umbria, is rich in history and charm. Among its most precious treasures is the Porta Fuga, an ancient gate that tells stories of courage and resistance.
The Porta Fuga takes its name from a legendary episode that occurred in 217 BC. During Hannibal's invasion, the inhabitants of Spoleto managed to repel the Carthaginian army by throwing boiling oil from the nearby Torre dell'Olio. This act of heroic defense gave the gate its name, which means "gate of escape", in reference to the invaders' retreat.
Originally built during the Roman era, the Porta Fuga has been subsequently modified over the centuries. Experts believe that the current structure dates back to the late 12th century. The gate was raised in 1655 for the visit of Christina of Sweden, and these changes are still visible today.
Today, Porta Fuga is not only a historical monument, but also a symbol of Spoleto’s identity and resilience. Walking along Via Porta Fuga, you can almost hear the echoes of past battles and imagine the determination of the ancient Spoletini.
For those visiting Spoleto, Porta Fuga is a must-see. Located in the first city wall, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Spoleto’s defensive past. Not far away is the Torre dell’Olio, another historic structure that completes the picture of this legendary era.
Porta Fuga is more than just a gate; it is a silent witness to Spoleto’s history. Every stone tells a story of courage and resistance, making this place a key point of interest for anyone who wants to discover the deep roots of this fascinating Umbrian city.

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

To see all the photos I took in the city click here:

Where is the gate located:

The street takes its name from the gate that was part of the city walls in Roman times, before the medieval development of the village of San Gregorio. Later it took the name of Porta Fuga to allude to the legendary episode of the expulsion of Hannibal's Carthaginian army under the walls of Spoleto (217 BC), driven away by the jet of boiling oil that the people of Spoleto threw from the nearby Torre dell'Olio.
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The beautiful Fuga gate in the city of Spoleto – La belle porte d’évasion dans la ville de Spoleto – La hermosa puerta de escape en la ciudad de Spoleto – A bela porta de fuga na cidade de Spoleto – Die schöne Fluchttür in der Stadt Spoleto – Cửa thoát hiểm tuyệt đẹp ở thành phố Spoleto

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The decorations of the El Indio shop in Barcelona

El Indio di Barcellona

The decorations of El Indio store in Barcelona.
Located in the heart of Barcelona, ​​“El Indio” is one of the most emblematic historic stores in the city. This store, founded in 1870, is an important testimony to Catalan Art Nouveau, also known as Modernism. With its long history and commitment to preserving tradition, El Indio continues to be a point of reference for both residents and visitors.
El Indio is located in a historic building that still retains many of the original features that reflect the Modernism era. Its sumptuously decorated windows, wrought iron details and colorful tiles are perfect examples of this artistic style that has profoundly influenced the architecture and design of Barcelona.
Founded as a high-quality fabric store, El Indio has maintained a reputation for excellence and refinement over the years. The name “El Indio” refers to the exoticism and elegance of fabrics from the East, which were highly prized during the store’s heyday.
It has been closed for some time now.
El Indio was not just a store, but also a cultural symbol of Barcelona. Its enduring presence in the city’s commercial landscape makes it a living example of how tradition can be preserved and enhanced over time. Attention to detail and quality make El Indio a unique place where history and modernity meet.
El Indio is centrally located, easily accessible by public transport. Its proximity to major tourist attractions, such as La Rambla and the Gothic Quarter, makes it an ideal destination for anyone wishing to explore the historic heart of Barcelona.
El Indio is more than just a store; it is a living piece of Barcelona’s history. With its fascinating modernist architecture and constant commitment to quality and tradition, it continues to be an unmissable place for anyone who wants to discover the authenticity and elegance of Catalan culture.

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El Indio di Barcellona

El Indio di Barcellona

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

Here is where the palace is located:

The decorations of the El Indio store in Barcelona – Les décorations du magasin El Indio à Barcelone – La decoración de la tienda El Indio de Barcelona – As decorações da loja El Indio em Barcelona – Die Dekorationen des El Indio-Ladens in Barcelona – Đồ trang trí của cửa hàng El Indio ở Barcelona

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A glimpse of via Alessandro Manzoni in Lavagna

Uno scorcio di via Alessandro Manzoni a Lavagna

A glimpse of Via Alessandro Manzoni in Lavagna.
Via Alessandro Manzoni in Lavagna is a place that enchants with its beauty and historical charm. This street, located in the heart of the city, offers visitors a journey through time, among historical buildings and evocative atmospheres.
Walking along Via Manzoni, you can admire the facades of the ancient houses, many of which date back to the 19th century. These buildings, with their unique architectural details, tell stories of a rich and vibrant past. The colored shutters, the flowered balconies and the solid wooden doors contribute to creating a welcoming and picturesque atmosphere.
In conclusion, this glimpse represents a perfect example of how beauty and history can coexist in harmony. It is a place that deserves to be visited and experienced, to fully appreciate the charm of this enchanting Ligurian city.

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Uno scorcio di via Alessandro Manzoni a Lavagna

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

Here is the spot where I took this photo:

A glimpse of via Alessandro Manzoni in Lavagna – Un aperçu de la via Alessandro Manzoni à Lavagna – Un vistazo a via Alessandro Manzoni en Lavagna – Um vislumbre da via Alessandro Manzoni em Lavagna – Ein Blick auf die Via Alessandro Manzoni in Lavagna – Một cái nhìn thoáng qua về Alessandro Manzoni ở Lavagna

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