The beautiful Senarega square in the alleys of Genoa

La bella piazza Senarega nei vicoli di Genova

The beautiful Piazza Senarega in the alleys of Genoa.
In the heart of Genoa, hidden among the alleys of the historic center, lies the suggestive Piazza Senarega. This picturesque corner is an architectural and historical jewel that tells the authentic soul of the city.
The square takes its name from the ancient and noble Senarega family, who in the Middle Ages owned several properties in the area. Today, Piazza Senarega is a quiet refuge from the lively activity of the city center, characterized by a cobblestone pavement and surrounded by historic buildings that bear witness to the passing of the centuries.
One of the main points of interest is the Church of San Torpete, a small baroque church that dominates the square with its simple but elegant facade. The church, restored over the years, is a perfect example of local religious architecture and a place of peace and reflection.
Walking through Piazza Senarega means immersing yourself in an atmosphere of times gone by, where every stone seems to tell a story. The narrow streets that lead to the square offer unique and unexpected views, making this place a must-see for those who want to discover the true essence of Genoa.
Visiting Piazza Senarega does not only mean exploring a hidden corner of the city, but also living an experience that combines history, art and culture in an authentically Genoese environment.

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La bella piazza Senarega nei vicoli di Genova

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

Here's exactly where the square is located:

A few steps from Via degli Orefici and Via Banchi is the charming Piazza Senarega. The toponym of the site originates from the name of the noble family of the same name originally from the Scrivia Valley. The absolute protagonist of the square is the luxurious palace, built around 1590, of Gio. Batta Senarega.
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The beautiful Senarega square in the alleys of Genoa – La belle place Senarega dans les ruelles de Gênes – La hermosa plaza Senarega en las callejuelas de Génova – A bela praça Senarega nas ruelas de Génova – Der wunderschöne Senarega-Platz in den Gassen von Genua – Quảng trường Senarega xinh đẹp trong các con hẻm của Genoa

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

Thai Cuisine: Khao Pad Sapparot, the Recipe

Cucina thailandese: Khao Pad Sapparot, la ricetta

Thai Cuisine: Khao Pad Sapparot, the recipe.
Khao Pad Sapparot, or pineapple fried rice, is a dish that perfectly embodies the balance of flavors typical of Thai cuisine. This dish combines the sweetness of pineapple, the saltiness of soy sauce, and the spicy taste of curry, creating a harmony of flavors that delights the palate.
This dish, which I tasted in my Da Nang in a famous Thai restaurant, gave me the inspiration to write the recipe for you.

Ingredients

– Jasmine rice: fragrant and light rice, ideal for Asian dishes;
– Half a fresh pineapple: adds sweetness and a tropical touch (we try to remove half of this fruit to use as a container for the dish);
– Shrimp or chicken: provides protein and a savory taste;
– Eggs: to give body to the dish;
– Onion and garlic: for a rich and aromatic flavor;
– Soy sauce: adds a salty and umami flavor;
– Curry powder: for a spicy touch.

Preparation

First cook the rice: make sure the rice is cooked and cooled, ideal if prepared the day before.
Then continue to sauté the ingredients: in a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic until golden. Add the shrimp or chicken and cook until cooked through.
Add the rice and pineapple: mix the cooked rice and chopped pineapple. Add the eggs and cook them, stirring well.
Season: Add soy sauce and curry powder. Stir well until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly heated.
Serve hot: Garnish with fresh spring onions and serve inside the half pineapple that we had previously left.

Khao Pad Sapparot is perfect for those who like to experiment with flavors and discover new combinations. It can be served as a main course, perhaps accompanied by Tom Yum soup or Thai spring rolls.
Enjoy!

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Photo taken with Honor 20.

Thai Cuisine: Khao Pad Sapparot, the Recipe – Cuisine thaïlandaise : Khao Pad Sapparot, la recette – Cocina tailandesa: Khao Pad Sapparot, la receta – Cozinha tailandesa: Khao Pad Sapparot, a receita – Thailändische Küche: Khao Pad Sapparot, das Rezept – Ẩm thực Thái Lan: Công thức món Khao Pad Sapparot

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The Cannara gate of the village of Bevagna in Umbria

La porta Cannara del borgo di Bevagna in Umbria

Cannara gate in the village of Bevagna in Umbria.
Cannara gate is one of the historical jewels of Bevagna, a charming town in Umbria. Dating back to the medieval period, this gate represents one of the best preserved testimonies of the city's past. The structure, with its imposing tower, loopholes and coats of arms, evokes images of a distant but timeless era.
An interesting detail is the central niche, once decorated with a fresco, which adds an artistic touch to the fortified architecture. Inside the gate, you can admire a sundial painted in the 18th century, testimony to the skill and attention to detail of the craftsmen of the time.
Visiting Cannara Gate means immersing yourself in the history of Bevagna and appreciating the timeless beauty of an urban work of art. A symbol of identity and tradition that continues to enchant visitors.
On the gate there is a sundial, which is however very faded, and a plaque in memory of Giuseppe Garibaldi.

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

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Where is the gate located:

The Cannara gate of the village of Bevagna in Umbria – La porte Cannara du village de Bevagna en Ombrie – La puerta de Cannara del pueblo de Bevagna en Umbría – O portão de Cannara da aldeia de Bevagna, na Úmbria – Das Cannara-Tor des Dorfes Bevagna in Umbrien – Cổng Cannara của làng Bevagna ở Umbria

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Costa Diadema in the Geirangerfjord

La Costa Diadema nel fiordo di Geiranger

Costa Diadema in the Geiranger Fjord.
Costa Diadema is one of the largest and most luxurious cruise ships in the Costa Cruises fleet. This impressive ship offers its passengers a unique experience, especially when it is in the majestic Geiranger Fjord in Norway.
Geiranger Fjord is famous for its spectacular waterfalls, including the famous Seven Sisters and the Pretender waterfall. Costa Diadema, with its imposing and modern structure, “parks” in front of the picturesque village of Geiranger, offering passengers a breathtaking view and the opportunity to explore this enchanting location.
On board Costa Diadema, passengers can enjoy numerous comforts and services, including fine dining restaurants, shops, swimming pools and relaxation areas. The ship also offers guided excursions and activities on land, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the fjord and its sculpted mountains.
The combination of luxury on board and the natural beauty of the Geiranger Fjord makes the Costa Diadema an excellent choice for those looking for an unforgettable cruise. If you are planning a visit, be sure to include a stop in Geiranger for one of the most memorable experiences of your cruise.

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

Costa Diadema is a cruise ship of the Genoese company Costa Crociere. Upon completion, it was the largest ship ever built under the Italian flag. Laid down on 10 December 2012 in the construction dock of the shipyard, it entered service as scheduled on 30 October 2014.
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Costa Diadema in the Geirangerfjord – Le Costa Diadema dans le fjord de Geiranger – La Costa Diadema en el fiordo de Geiranger – A Costa Diadema no Fiorde de Geiranger – Die Costa Diadema im Geiranger Fjord – Costa Diadema ở Geiranger Fjord

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The Sanctuary of San Bernardino alle Ossa in Milan

Il Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa a Milano

The Sanctuary of San Bernardino alle Ossa in Milan.
It is a fascinating place full of history. Located in the city center, near the famous Piazza del Duomo, the sanctuary is best known for its ossuary chapel.
The ossuary was built in 1210 to address the lack of space in the local cemetery. The bones of the deceased were collected and artistically arranged along the walls, creating a unique and disturbing atmosphere. The current chapel was then rebuilt in 1695, after being destroyed by a fire.
The interior of the sanctuary is decorated with splendid frescoes by Sebastiano Ricci, a famous Venetian painter of the 17th century. These frescoes represent scenes from the lives of the saints and further enrich the evocative atmosphere of the place. The peculiarity of the sanctuary is also given by the high altar, made of marble and decorated with statues of angels and saints.
Visiting the Sanctuary of San Bernardino alle Ossa is an experience that leaves its mark. The combination of history, art and the macabre charm of the ossuary make this place an unmissable attraction for anyone in Milan.

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Photo taken with Honor 20.

This is the official website of the sanctuary: sanbernardinoalleossa.it.

Here is where the palace is located:

The church of San Bernardino alle Ossa is a church in Milan, located in Piazza Santo Stefano. Also referred to in the past as San Bernardino ai Morti, it is particularly known for its seventeenth-century ossuary chapel, whose walls are mostly covered with bones to form true baroque decorations.
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The Sanctuary of San Bernardino alle Ossa in Milan – Le sanctuaire de San Bernardino alle Ossa à Milan – El Santuario de San Bernardino alle Ossa en Milán – O Santuário de San Bernardino alle Ossa em Milão – Das Heiligtum San Bernardino alle Ossa in Mailand – Thánh địa San Bernardino alle Ossa ở Milan

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The Battistine Hill in Genoa

La Salita delle Battistine a Genova

Salita delle Battistine in Genoa.
Salita delle Battistine is one of the most charming streets in Genoa, located in the heart of the Maddalena district. This steep creuza connects Piazza Portello to Piazza dei Cappuccini, offering a suggestive route that seems to catapult visitors into the historic center of the city.
The street takes its name from the church and convent of the Romite di San Giovanni Battista, known as the Battistine. This convent, now used as a school, has a rich and interesting history. During the works for the opening of the Nino Bixio gallery, part of the ancient 12th century walls were demolished, revealing a secondary entrance to the convent through a pointed arch.
Today, Salita delle Battistine is a pedestrian street, often frequented by students and residents. Despite its current state, with uneven pavement and graffiti, the street retains a particular charm. It is also known for having hosted the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who wrote some pages of the manuscripts of Zarathustra here.
The Salita delle Battistine represents a perfect example of how history and modernity can coexist, offering visitors a unique experience in the heart of Genoa.

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

Here is where this street is located:

The steep and spectacular creuza, when descending, seems to catapult you into the city centre. At number 12 is the former church and convent of San Giovanni Battista (1744) which gave the street its name, now home to the Giano Grillo primary school and the Bertani Ruffini secondary school.
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The Battistine Hill in Genoa – La montée Battistine à Gênes – La subida battistina a Génova – A escalada battistina em Génova – Der Battistine-Aufstieg in Genua – Cuộc leo núi Battistine ở Genoa

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://fosca.unige.it/Salita%20delle%20Battistine
– https://www.primocanale.it/archivio-news/152109-l-oblio-di-nietzsche-tra-i-graffiti-e-l-incuria-in-salita-delle-battistine-a-genova.html

Meatballs in tomato sauce, the recipe

Le polpette al sugo di pomodoro, la ricetta

Meatballs in tomato sauce, the recipe.
Some time ago I was on board the Costa Fascinosa where, every now and then, the great Maitre d’Hotel Gianni prepared succulent dishes for us!
One of these were meatballs in tomato sauce, of which I leave you a simple and tasty recipe to prepare them at home.

Ingredients

For the meatballs:
– 350 g minced meat (beef or mixed);
– 50 g stale bread or chopped wholemeal friselle;
– 50 g grated cheese (Grana Padano or Parmigiano);
– 1 egg;
– 20 ml milk;
– 2 tablespoons chopped parsley;
– Salt and pepper to taste.
For the sauce:
– 720 ml tomato puree;
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil;
– 1 clove garlic;
– Salt and pepper to taste;
– Fresh basil (optional).

Preparation

First, let's prepare the meatballs.
In a large bowl, mix the minced meat, the chopped bread, the grated cheese, the egg, the milk, the parsley, the salt and the pepper. Work the mixture well with your hands until you obtain a smooth dough. Shape medium-sized meatballs.
Then let's prepare the sauce.
In a saucepan, heat the oil and brown the garlic for a few minutes. Add the tomato puree, salt, pepper and a few basil leaves if desired. Cook over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the meatballs to the sauce and cook for about 20 minutes, turning them gently halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
Serve the meatballs hot, perhaps with a sprinkling of chopped parsley and a little chilli pepper if you like it spicy.

Enjoy! If you have any questions or suggestions, let me know!
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Le polpette al sugo di pomodoro, la ricetta

Photo taken with Honor 20.

Meatballs in tomato sauce, the recipe – Boulettes de viande à la sauce tomate, la recette – Albóndigas en salsa de tomate, la receta – Almôndegas com molho de tomate, a receita – Fleischbällchen in Tomatensauce, das Rezept – Thịt viên sốt cà chua, công thức

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The magnificent Spoleto Cathedral and its churchyard

Il magnifico Duomo di Spoleto ed il suo sagrato

The magnificent Cathedral of Spoleto and its churchyard.
If you find yourself in Spoleto, you cannot miss a visit to the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, also known as the Cathedral of Spoleto. This masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, built between 1151 and 1227, is the city's main place of worship and an Italian national monument.
The cathedral's façade is a real spectacle, with its central rose window and golden mosaics that sparkle in the sun. Inside, you can admire frescoes by Filippo Lippi, which tell the stories of the Virgin Mary, and works by Pinturicchio.
Every year, during the Festival dei Due Mondi, the cathedral becomes one of the most evocative places of the event, hosting concerts and shows that pay homage to its beauty and history.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit this extraordinary example of art and spirituality. The Cathedral of Spoleto awaits you for a journey through time and beauty!

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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 cathedral located:

The cathedral was built between 1151 and 1227 on the site of a pre-existing building; it was part of the Vaita De Domo. It was consecrated by Pope Innocent III in 1198. Inside, in the apse, there is the valuable cycle of frescoes by Filippo Lippi Stories of the Virgin, painted in the last years of the artist's life, between May 1467 and September 1469.
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The magnificent Spoleto Cathedral and its churchyard – La magnifique cathédrale de Spolète et son cimetière – La magnífica catedral de Spoleto y su cementerio – A magnífica Catedral de Spoleto e o seu adro – Die prächtige Kathedrale von Spoleto und ihr Kirchhof – Nhà thờ Spoleto tráng lệ và sân nhà thờ của nó

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The cutlet called elephant ear, the recipe

La cotoletta detta orecchia di elefante, la ricetta

The cutlet called elephant ear, the recipe.
Some time ago, while I was on board, Chef Biagio prepared some enormous cutlets which, precisely because of their size, are also called elephant ears.
They were delicious and as always I leave you the recipe.

Ingredients

For the cutlet:
– 2 veal cutlets (about 1 kg each);
– 2 eggs;
– Flour to taste;
– Breadcrumbs to taste;
– Grated Parmesan to taste;
– Salt and pepper to taste;
– Clarified butter or oil for frying.

For the chips, if you like to make them fresh:
– 4 large potatoes;
– Seed oil for frying;
– Salt to taste.

Preparation

First, pound the veal chops with a meat tenderizer until they are uniformly thick, similar to an elephant ear.
Pass the chops first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper, and finally in the breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan.
Fry the cutlets in plenty of clarified butter or hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on absorbent paper to remove excess oil.
Peel the potatoes and cut them into sticks.
Fry the potatoes in hot seed oil until golden and crispy. Drain on absorbent paper and salt to taste.

Serve the “elephant ear” cutlet hot, accompanied by French fries. Enjoy!

If you have any other questions or need more details, let me know!
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Photo taken with Honor 20.

The cutlet called elephant ear, the recipe – L’escalope appelée oreille d’éléphant, la recette – La chuleta llamada oreja de elefante, la receta. – A costeleta chamada orelha de elefante, a receita – Das Schnitzel heißt Elefantenohr, das Rezept – Công thức món cốt lết tai voi

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://consorzioprosciuttomodena.it/ricette/cotoletta-orecchio-di-elefante/
– https://www.gamberorosso.it/ricette/scheda-ricetta/orecchia-delefante-cotoletta-alla-milanese-battuta/

The porticoes and the motto of Genoa in via XX

I portici ed il motto di Genova in via XX Settembre

The porticos and motto of Genoa in Via XX Settembre.
Via XX Settembre is one of the main arteries of Genoa, famous for its elegant and decorated porticos. These porticos, which extend along a large part of the street, are characterized by mosaic floors and richly decorated ceilings, with elements ranging from neo-Gothic to Art Nouveau style.
An interesting detail is the motto found under one of the neo-Gothic porticos, near the Zara exit. The motto reads: “As the Griffin seizes these, so Genoa tears to pieces its enemies”. This motto, accompanied by a griffin seizing an eagle and a fox, dates back to the ancient Republic of Genoa. The eagle represents imperial authority, while the fox symbolizes Pisa, one of Genoa's main rivals.

Have you ever walked under these porticos? Is there any detail that particularly struck you?
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Photo taken with Honor 20.

The porticoes and the motto of Genoa in via XX Settembre – Les arcades et la devise de Gênes dans la via XX Settembre – Los soportales y el lema de Génova en via XX Settembre – As arcadas e o lema de Gênova na via XX Settembre – Die Arkaden und das Motto von Genua in der Via XX Settembre – Các mái vòm và phương châm của Genoa qua XX Settembre

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