The mystery of how Stratford lad Shakespeare knew so much about the world

Key locations The jealous Leontes may have had no real-life counterpart, but Sicily was a kingdom, by various definitions, between 1130 and 1816 – its rulers seated…

The 15 ultimate Italian holidays, and how to do them in style

Few of us can resist a holiday in Europe’s most elegant country. Especially not those of us who dream of a nice glass of chianti on a…

Spying, satire and revenge: The bitter rivalry that created Rome’s greatest sights

Michelangelo struggled to shake off the competition. Once the Sistine ceiling was finished, it was Raphael who got the commission to design the spectacular tapestries which were…

Don’t be put off by the current travel chaos – the good times are just around the corner…

Maybe you are struggling to find reasons to be cheerful at the moment. But take heart. We may be going through a spasm of chaos as airlines…

The 10 ultimate Italian holidays, and how to do them in style

It is the travel news many of us have been waiting for. Especially those of us who dream of a nice glass of chianti on a warm…

Mummy mia! Italian historians unimpressed with Poirot pyramid PR stunt

“Certain monuments, especially if they have been restored, should be untouchable. Our monuments should be promoted but they should not be for sale. I hope it won’t…

Uncovering Rome’s subterranean secrets – by bicycle

In a little-frequented area of the park, a moss-lined lane overhung with trees leads downwards to a metal door. Once opened by the guides, it leads into…

Couple flushed with success in court battle over loud loo that drove them round the bend

A bitter row between neighbours over a lavatory’s thunderous flush has finally been resolved after becoming bogged down for nearly 20 years in the Italian legal system….

Couple flushed with success after court rules in their favour over loud loo

A bitter row between neighbours over a lavatory’s thunderous flush has finally been resolved after becoming bogged down for nearly 20 years in the Italian legal system….

New normal? Covid measures linger at the world’s great attractions

Other measures have also been introduced. To ease congestion, tour group sizes are now limited to 10 people, including a guide, and tickets must now be bought…