The active volcano Cumbre Vieja in La Palma

Il vulcano attivo Cumbre Vieja a La Palma

The active volcano Cumbre Vieja in La Palma.
The Cumbre Vieja volcano, located on the island of La Palma in the Canary Islands, is known for its significant volcanic activity and its impact on the environment and local communities. Its latest eruption, which began on September 19, 2021 and ended on December 13, 2021, was one of the longest and most devastating in the island's history.
The 2021 eruption was the first on the island since 1971 and had a huge impact. Lava covered over 1,000 hectares, destroying more than 3,000 buildings and forcing the evacuation of around 7,000 people. The lava flow reached the sea, creating a new peninsula and an extensive system of lava tubes.
The eruption had devastating consequences for the environment and the local economy. Banana, avocado and grape crops, which are essential to the island’s economy, have been severely damaged. In addition, air quality has been compromised due to toxic gas emissions, causing respiratory problems among the local population.
Authorities have established an exclusion zone around the lava flow to protect the population from associated dangers, such as explosions and toxic gases. The island’s recovery has been a long and complex process, with extensive damage estimated at around €843 million.
The Cumbre Vieja volcano remains a powerful and unpredictable natural force. Lessons learned from the 2021 eruption are crucial to improving prevention and response measures for future volcanic eruptions, ensuring the safety of local communities and the protection of the environment.

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Il vulcano attivo Cumbre Vieja a La Palma

Il vulcano attivo Cumbre Vieja a La Palma

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

To see all the photos I took on the island click here:
foto gallery

Where is the volcano located:

The active volcano Cumbre Vieja in La Palma – Le volcan actif Cumbre Vieja à La Palma – El volcán activo Cumbre Vieja en La Palma – O vulcão ativo Cumbre Vieja em La Palma – Der aktive Vulkan Cumbre Vieja auf La Palma – Núi lửa đang hoạt động Cumbre Vieja ở La Palma

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Details of the Fontana Maggiore in Perugia

Particolari della Fontana Maggiore di Perugia

Details of the Fontana Maggiore in Perugia.
The Fontana Maggiore in Perugia, located in the center of Piazza IV Novembre, is one of the city's symbolic monuments and a masterpiece of Gothic sculpture. Built between 1275 and 1278, the fountain celebrates the arrival of water in the city's acropolis thanks to a new aqueduct.
The fountain was designed by Frà Bevignate da Cingoli and built with the collaboration of Boninsegna Veneziano, a hydraulic engineer, and the famous sculptors Nicola Pisano and Giovanni Pisano. The structure is composed of two concentric polygonal marble basins, surmounted by a bronze cup adorned with female figures from which the water flows.
The lower basin is decorated with 50 panels representing the months of the year, each accompanied by its zodiac symbol. These panels depict scenes of daily life and agricultural work, giving dignity to material work. Furthermore, there are representations of the liberal arts, philosophy, biblical figures and the history of Rome.
The upper basin, on the other hand, is adorned with high reliefs representing historical and mythological figures and allegorical figures. The statues are arranged to form a compass rose, with the four main ones placed at the cardinal points and the other twenty in relation to these.
The fountain is also famous for its enigmatic bronze group of female figures, known as "the water carriers". The symbolic meaning of this sculpture is still a matter of debate today, since there is no explicit mention in the inscription on the basin.

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Particolari della Fontana Maggiore di Perugia

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

To see all the photos of Perugia, click here:

Here's where the fountain is located:

The Fontana Maggiore, located in the center of Piazza IV Novembre (formerly Piazza Grande), is the symbolic monument of the city of Perugia. The monumental fountain was built by Umberto the Master between 1278 and 1280 to celebrate the arrival of water in the city's acropolis, thanks to the new aqueduct.
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Details of the Fontana Maggiore in Perugia – Détails de la Fontana Maggiore à Pérouse – Detalles de la Fontana Maggiore en Perugia – Detalhes da Fontana Maggiore em Perugia – Details der Fontana Maggiore in Perugia – Thông tin chi tiết về Fontana Maggiore ở Perugia

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://www.secretumbria.it/en/fontana-maggiore-great-fountain-perugia/
– https://turismo.comune.perugia.it/poi/fontana-maggiore

A glimpse of the modern arcades of Lavagna

Uno scorcio dei portici moderni di Lavagna

A glimpse of the modern arcades of Lavagna.
Lavagna, located in the heart of the Gulf of Tigullio, is a town that combines the charm of tradition with touches of modernity. Its arcades, which wind around the main streets of the center, are a perfect example of how contemporary architecture can enrich the urban landscape.
Some are very typical and ancient, with slate elements. Others are much more recent and modern (like the ones in the photo of this post) like these on Via Nuova Italia.
The arcades of Lavagna are characterized by materials such as stone and decorated with beautiful mosaics, which give an elegant and refined look. These arcades offer ideal shelter from both the summer sun and the winter rain, making it pleasant to walk around the city in every season.
Under the arcades, there are numerous shops, cafes and restaurants that invite you to stop for a break. This covered path is always lively, with residents and tourists mingling, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. It is the perfect place to go shopping, enjoy a coffee or simply observe the city life.
The porticos are not only an architectural element, but also a meeting point for the local community. Here, the inhabitants of Lavagna meet to shop, chat and enjoy a moment of relaxation. This makes the porticos a dynamic and social place, where you can breathe the authentic atmosphere of Ligurian life.
For those visiting Lavagna, a walk under the porticos is an experience not to be missed. In addition to offering a unique view of the city, they allow you to discover hidden corners and architectural details that tell the story and culture of this fascinating Ligurian village.

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Uno scorcio dei portici moderni di 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 the modern arcades of Lavagna – Un aperçu des portiques modernes de Lavagna – Un vistazo a los pórticos modernos de Lavagna – Um vislumbre dos pórticos modernos de Lavagna – Ein Blick auf die modernen Portiken von Lavagna – Một cái nhìn thoáng qua về những mái hiên hiện đại của Lavagna

The Mammoth Facade of Milan Cathedral

La mastodontica facciata del Duomo di Milano

The massive façade of the Milan Cathedral.
The façade of the Milan Cathedral, officially known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is one of the most extraordinary examples of Gothic architecture in Italy. Construction of the Cathedral began in 1386 and the façade, which is one of the most iconic parts of the building, was completed in 1805.
The façade of the Milan Cathedral is a true mosaic of architectural styles, the result of centuries of work and different influences. Initially designed in Gothic style, the façade underwent numerous modifications over the centuries, incorporating elements of the Renaissance, Baroque and Neo-Gothic. This mix of styles makes the façade of the Cathedral unique in its kind, testifying to the complex construction history of the complex.
The façade is characterized by five sections that suggest the presence of the internal naves, with six buttresses surmounted by spires. The five portals and the windows above date back to the 17th century, while the central balcony is from 1790 and the three neo-Gothic windows are from the 19th century. The bas-relief decoration of the portals was sculpted at the time of Archbishop Borromeo based on designs by Cerano, and the statues of the Apostles and Prophets on the consoles are all from the 19th century.
One of the distinctive features of the façade of Milan Cathedral is the extraordinary abundance of sculptures. These works, which cover a time span from the 14th to the 20th century, were created by masters of various origins. The stained glass windows, also part of the grandiose decorative cycle, have been replaced over the centuries, with few original examples from the 15th and 16th centuries still visible.

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La mastodontica facciata del Duomo di Milano

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

This is the official website of the cathedral: duomomilano.it.

Click here if you want to see all the photos I took:
foto gallery

Here is where the cathedral is located:

Symbol of the Lombard capital, and located in the homonymous square in the center of the metropolis, it is dedicated to Santa Maria Nascente. It is the largest church in Italy.
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The Mammoth Facade of Milan Cathedral – La façade gigantesque de la cathédrale de Milan – La gigantesca fachada de la Catedral de Milán – A gigantesca fachada da Catedral de Milão – Die Mammutfassade des Mailänder Doms – Mặt tiền khổng lồ của Nhà thờ Milan

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://blog.urbanfile.org/2016/02/27/milano-duomo-quanti-progetti-per-la-facciata-del-duomo/

The alley of Sestri Levante, the heart of the town

Il caruggio di Sestri Levante, cuore della cittadina

The caruggio of Sestri Levante, the heart of the town.
In the heart of Sestri Levante, one of the pearls of Liguria, is the famous caruggio, officially known as Via XXV Aprile. This narrow pedestrian alley is the nerve center of city life, a place where history, culture and everyday life intertwine in a fascinating mosaic.
Walking along the caruggio is like taking a step back in time. The colorful houses, with their decorated facades and flower-filled balconies, tell stories of a rich and vibrant past. Each building has its own unique character, reflecting the traditional Ligurian architecture that makes Sestri Levante so special.
The caruggio is always lively, especially during the summer months. Here you will find numerous shops, bars, bakeries and restaurants offering a wide range of local products and culinary specialties. It is the ideal place to go shopping, enjoy an artisanal ice cream or simply sit at a café and watch the world go by.
The caruggio is not just a road, but a path that leads to one of the most iconic places in Sestri Levante: the Baia del Silenzio. This corner of paradise, with its crystal clear waters and golden beach, is easily reached by walking along the caruggio, making the experience even more magical.

Visiting the caruggio of Sestri Levante means immersing yourself in the authenticity of Ligurian life. It is a place where the past and present meet, creating a unique and unforgettable atmosphere. Whether you are a tourist looking for new discoveries or a resident who loves his city, the caruggio always offers something special.

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Il caruggio di Sestri Levante, cuore della cittadina

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

The alley of Sestri Levante, the heart of the town – La ruelle de Sestri Levante, le cœur de la ville – El callejón de Sestri Levante, el corazón de la ciudad – O beco de Sestri Levante, o coração da cidade – Die Gasse von Sestri Levante, das Herz der Stadt – Con hẻm Sestri Levante, trung tâm thị trấn

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.

A beautiful terrace among the alleys of Padua

Un bel terrazzo tra i vicoli di Padova

A beautiful terrace among the alleys of Padua.
Padua is a charming city located in the Veneto region, in northern Italy. Wandering through the alleys of the large historic center you can come across very beautiful buildings like the one photographed and published in this article.
Padua is one of the oldest cities in Italy, with a history dating back to the 13th century BC. Founded, according to legend, by the Trojan prince Antenor, the city played an important role during the Roman and medieval eras. In the 14th century, under the rule of the Carraresi, Padua became a significant cultural center, contributing to the Italian Renaissance.
Founded in 1222, the University of Padua is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world. Its illustrious professors and students include Galileo Galilei and Nicolaus Copernicus. The university is still a center of academic and research excellence today.
Monuments and Attractions:
– The Scrovegni Chapel: famous for its frescoes by Giotto, it is one of the masterpieces of medieval art.
– The Prato della Valle: one of the largest squares in Europe, surrounded by statues and canals.
– The Basilica of Sant’Antonio: known simply as “Il Santo”, it is an important place of pilgrimage.
– The Botanical Garden: the oldest university botanical garden in the world, founded in 1545 and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Padua is known as “the city of the three withouts”:
– The Café without doors: the Caffè Pedrocchi, once open 24 hours a day.
– The Meadow without grass: the Prato della Valle, which in the past was a marshy area.
– The Saint without a name: the Basilica of Sant’Antonio, called simply “The Saint” by the Paduans.
Today, Padua is a lively and dynamic city, with a population of over 200,000. It is an important economic and cultural center, with numerous events, festivals and a rich gastronomic scene.

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Un bel terrazzo tra i vicoli di Padova

Photo taken with Honor 20.

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

The city was one of the cultural capitals of the fourteenth century, thanks to the presence of the lordship of the Carraresi or Da Carrara, who made Padua one of the main centers of pre-humanism. Between the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, an impressive cultural movement devoted to the ancient developed in conjunction with Florence, which would transform into the Paduan Renaissance and influence the artistic landscape of the entire northern Italy of the fifteenth century. In Padua there are two sites declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO: the botanical garden, the oldest in the world, and the cycles of frescoes from the fourteenth century, preserved in eight building complexes including the Scrovegni Chapel.
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A beautiful terrace among the alleys of Padua – Une belle terrasse dans les ruelles de Padoue – Una hermosa terraza en las callejuelas de Padua. – Um belo terraço nas ruelas de Pádua – Eine wunderschöne Terrasse in den Gassen von Padua – Một sân thượng tuyệt đẹp trong các con hẻm ở Padua

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.

An access from the lakeside to Lake Garda in Salò

Un accesso dal lungolago al lago di Garda a Salò

An access from the lakeside to Lake Garda in Salò.
The lakeside of Salò is one of the most charming spots in the city. It extends for about 3 kilometers along the gulf, offering a panoramic walk with spectacular views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you will find numerous cafes, ice cream parlors and restaurants where you can stop for a relaxing break. It is a pedestrian area, perfect for a quiet walk, both during the day and in the evening, when the lights of the city reflect on the water creating a magical atmosphere.
Salò is a town rich in history and culture. Here are some highlights:
– Centro Storico: Characterised by narrow streets and colourful houses, Salò’s historic centre is a charming place to wander around and discover quaint shops and artisan workshops.
– Duomo di Salò: The church of Santa Maria Annunziata, with its unfinished façade, is an example of Renaissance architecture and houses valuable works of art.
– Palazzo della Magnifica Patria: This historic building houses the Salò Museum, where you can learn about the history of the town and the surrounding region.
– Cedral Tassoni: The historic company that produces the famous Cedrata Tassoni is based in Salò, and its history is closely linked to that of the town.
Salò is also a great base for exploring other towns on Lake Garda, thanks to its central location and easy ferry and bus connections.

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Un accesso dal lungolago al lago di Garda a Salò

Photo taken with Honor 20.

Click here to see all the photos.
foto gallery

In October 1943, the Italian Social Republic, known as the Republic of Salò, was founded between Salò and Gargnano. The presence in the Lombard town of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the booths for journalists and the translation service for foreign press releases, which issued all the official press releases of the Republic, meant that the latter was known by the name of the city, even though the capital officially remained Rome.
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An access from the lakeside to Lake Garda in Salò – Accès depuis les rives du lac de Garde à Salò – Acceso desde la orilla del lago al lago de Garda en Salò – Acesso da margem do lago ao Lago de Garda em Salò – Zugang vom Seeufer zum Gardasee in Salò – Lối đi từ bờ hồ đến Hồ Garda ở Salò

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.

The Sailors' Monument in Bergen, Norway

Il monumento ai marinai a Bergen in Norvegia

The Sailors' Monument in Bergen, Norway.
Located in the heart of Bergen, the Sailors' Monument is a tribute to Norway's rich maritime heritage. This impressive monument, designed by sculptor Dyre Vaa and unveiled on 7 June 1950, celebrates the contributions of Norwegian sailors throughout the centuries.
The 7-metre-high monument has a distinctive cubic shape and is located at the northern end of Torgallmenningen, the city's main square. It is adorned with 12 bronze statues and four relief panels, each representing different eras of Norwegian maritime history.
The statues are grouped in four triads facing the cardinal directions, each representing a different era:
West side: Viking Age adventurers, armed with swords and spears.
North side: Modern era sailors (17th and 18th centuries).
East side: 19th century sailors.
South side: 20th century sailors.
The relief panels add narrative depth, intertwining real maritime dangers with mythical and spiritual elements. Scenes depicted include Viking ships, encounters with Native Americans, and more modern images such as whaling scenes.
The Sailors' Monument not only reflects the importance of seafaring in Norwegian history, but also the central role of Bergen as a port city. It is a symbol of national pride and a tribute to the brave men who sailed the seas, contributing to Norway's development and prosperity.
The monument is easily accessible and is a must-see for anyone visiting Bergen. Its central location makes it ideal for an exploratory walk around the city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Norway's maritime history and culture.

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Il monumento ai marinai a Bergen in Norvegia

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

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

Here is where the monument is located:

The Sailors’ Monument in Bergen, Norway – Le monument des marins à Bergen, Norvège – El monumento a los marineros en Bergen, Noruega – O monumento dos marinheiros em Bergen, Noruega – Das Matrosendenkmal in Bergen, Norwegen – Đài tưởng niệm Thủy thủ ở Bergen, Na Uy

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://www.tripadvisor.it/Attraction_Review-g190502-d10539988-Reviews-Sailor_s_Monument-Bergen_Hordaland_Western_Norway.html
– https://www.gpsmycity.com/attractions/sailors-monument-30564.html

The large churchyard of Santo Stefano in Lavagna

L'ampio sagrato di Santo Stefano a Lavagna

The large churchyard of Santo Stefano in Lavagna.
The churchyard of the Basilica of Santo Stefano in Lavagna is famous for its beautiful risseu, mosaics made from black and white pebbles arranged in geometric patterns. The basilica itself, located in the town of Lavagna in Liguria, is an imposing structure that dominates the town and the surrounding sea.
The Basilica of Santo Stefano in Lavagna has a fascinating history that dates back many centuries. The first mention of a religious building on the site dates back to the 6th century, although some sources suggest it may be even older. Originally, there was a signal tower for sailors on the site, next to which the first church was built.
Over the centuries, the basilica has undergone numerous changes and restorations. In 1060, it was elevated to a collegiate church and became an important ecclesiastical center under the protection of the Holy See of Rome. The noble Fieschi family, who dominated the region, always had a special regard for the church, considering it a religious reference point of their dominion.
The current structure of the basilica was completed in 1668, with the consecration taking place in 1703. In 1921, Pope Benedict XV elevated the church to the rank of minor basilica.
The basilica is also known for its richly decorated interior and for the churchyard with the characteristic black and white pebble mosaics, typical of the Ligurian tradition.

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L'ampio sagrato di Santo Stefano a Lavagna

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

Here is where the church is located:

The collegiate basilica of Santo Stefano is a Catholic place of worship in the municipality of Lavagna, in Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, in the metropolitan city of Genoa. The church is the seat of the parish of the same name of the vicariate of Chiavari-Lavagna of the diocese of Chiavari.
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The churchyard of the church of Santo Stefano a Lavagna – Le cimetière de l’église de Santo Stefano a Lavagna – El cementerio de la iglesia de Santo Stefano a Lavagna – O adro da igreja de Santo Stefano a Lavagna – Der Kirchhof der Kirche Santo Stefano a Lavagna – Sân nhà thờ Santo Stefano a Lavagna – 圣斯特凡诺拉瓦尼亚教堂的墓地 – サント ステファノ ア ラヴァーニャ教会の墓地

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– http://www.comune.lavagna.ge.it/content/chiese-e-monumenti
– https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g194788-d7785459-Reviews-Basilica_di_Santo_Stefano-Lavagna_Italian_Riviera_Liguria.html

The interior of the church of San Luca in the heart of Genoa

The interior of the Church of San Luca in the heart of Genoa.
In the heart of the historic center of Genoa, the Church of San Luca represents a jewel of the Genoese Baroque. Founded in 1188 by Oberto Spinola, the church was rebuilt in the 17th century, maintaining its historical and artistic charm.
The interior of the Church of San Luca is a riot of art and decoration. The works of Domenico Piola, Filippo Parodi and Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, known as Grechetto, adorn the walls and altars. Piola, a master of fresco, created vivid and detailed scenes that capture the eye and the imagination.
Among the most significant works is the Adoration of the Shepherds by Grechetto, a masterpiece that illuminates the high altar. The sculptures of Filippo Parodi, including the Immaculate Conception and the Deposed Christ, add a three-dimensional dimension to the beauty of the church.
The interior decoration is an extraordinary example of harmony between architecture, painting and sculpture. The trompe-l’œil techniques used by Anton Maria Haffner create optical illusions that expand the space and add visual depth.
Today, the Church of San Luca continues to be an active place of worship, linked to the noble Spinola family. Every member of the family, wherever they are in the world, maintains a special bond with this church, which represents an important piece of their history and identity.

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Photo taken with Oppo Reno 12.

Here is where the church is located:

The interior of the church has a Greek cross plan with a single nave slightly elongated and ending in a semicircular apse. The marble high altar is the work of Daniello Solaro (1649), also the author of the numerous marble ornaments that enrich the temple. The vaults and walls of the church feature a cycle of frescoes, created in the last decade of the seventeenth century by Domenico Piola with the collaboration of his son Paolo Gerolamo and the quadraturist Antonio Maria Haffner, author of the frames and painted architecture.
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The interior of the church of San Luca in the heart of Genoa – L’intérieur de l’église de San Luca au coeur de Gênes – El interior de la iglesia de San Luca en el corazón de Génova – O interior da igreja de San Luca, no coração de Génova – Das Innere der Kirche San Luca im Herzen von Genua – Nội thất nhà thờ San Luca ở trung tâm Genoa

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://www.spinola.it/chiesa-di-san-luca/