A summary of delights from my trip around Italy with Luigi.
This past autumn, Luigi and I explored his homeland and the birthplace of my ancestors in a six week bucket list trip that took as all over Italy. As I wandered the cobblestone streets of the glorious country my father called home before his migration to Canada, I felt a profound sense of connection to the land, the people, and the rhythms of life. There’s something magical about traveling through a country as rich in history and culture as Italy. It’s a stark contrast to the newness of Australia, where I call home. In this post, I want to share the highlights of my Italian journey and how it continues to inspire me creatively and personally today.
Discovering Abruzzo
I was told that Luigi’s home town would be boring, that it was in one of the worst parts of Italy, the region of Abruzzo. This couldn’t be more wrong. One of the most transformative parts of my travels was exploring Abruzzo — a region that felt like stepping into another time. Unlike the tourist-saturated regions of Italy, Abruzzo is serene and untouched. It retains an authenticity that tourism has yet to spoil. The villages here are off the beaten track — perched high on hills, offering sweeping views of valleys, orchards and vineyards. I stayed in a remote village where life felt beautifully simple: mornings began with the scent of fresh espresso, and evenings ended with the sound of crackling fire under a sky full of stars.
Abruzzo reminded me of the power of slowing down. Here, I felt deeply connected to nature and to myself. The noise of the world, the pressure to do more ceased. My brain quieted down in Abruzzo and I could hear myself think clearly and cocicely for the first time in a long time. As if the land spoke to me, I envisioned myself settling down in a cottage and growing herbs, making candles, designing clay pots. It’s a dream I still dream now that I’m back in Australia. Perhaps one day I’ll get there.
The Charm of Marsica: Collarmele
Marsica, nestled in the heart of Abruzzo, offers an entirely different kind of magic. Collarmele is my partner Luigi’s home hamlet. It is one of the mosrt ancient and authentic parts of Italy. Unconquerable by the romans, and completely off the beaten track, it has a rugged beauty that left me utterly captivated. Nestled in the mountains, the village is a serene escape, far from the bustle of modern life. As I walked through the streets, I felt the weight of the centuries that have shaped this place. The mountains themselves seemed to whisper their stories, and every corner revealed a view that took my breath away. I could not help but feel awe-struck, standing there among towering windmills and ancient fields of herbs, as though nature had enveloped me in its quiet majesty. This land, with its wild beauty and peaceful rhythm, stole my heart in a way I never expected, and I now carry its spirit within me, deep in my soul.
Art and Architecture in Florence
Florence was another highlight of my travels. Walking through the city felt like an open-air museum. The Duomo, with its intricate facade and awe-inspiring dome, left me breathless. I spent hours taking in the details of its architecture, trying to memorise its beauty.
But Florence isn’t just about grand cathedrals; it’s also about the small, intimate moments. I discovered a tiny artisan shop tucked away in a narrow alley, where a local craftswoman creates stationary by hand. Watching her work was like watching poetry in motion. I bought a few wax stamps and some honeybee note cards from her. I hope to go back one day and see what else she has in store.
The Culinary Delights of Emilia-Romagna
Emilia-Romagna, often referred to as the food capital of Italy, was a feast for the senses. From the rich, creamy tagliatelle al ragù in Bologna to the perfectly aged Parmigiano-Reggiano in Parma, every meal was a celebration. Nothing, however, could beat the home cooked meals we ate at a table full of loved ones while visiting Luigi’s cousins.
Food in Italy is more than sustenance; it’s a ritual, a way of life. Sharing a meal with family, hearing their stories, and learning about the traditions behind each dish deepened my appreciation for the art of connection — something I aim to bring home with me.
Puglia: A Sun-Drenched Paradise
My journey through Puglia was a celebration of sun, sea, and stunning ancient architecture. This southern region is known for its whitewashed towns and turquoise waters. The trulli of Alberobello, with their iconic conical roofs, felt like something out of a fairytale. And I was struck by the warmth of the local people and the vibrancy of their traditions.
The coastline of Puglia was equally breathtaking. From the rugged cliffs of Polignano a Mare to the golden sands of Salento, every view was postcard-worthy. Puglia taught me the beauty of contrast — of ancient olive trees standing tall against a backdrop of modern life, of rustic charm meeting Mediterranean elegance.
Pisticci in Matera: Elegent Beauty, Matriarchal Roots.
Pisticci, a hidden town in the province of Matera, was a revelation. This is the birthplace of my grandmother’s kin, and it is known for its whitewashed homes cascading down the hillside. It exudes a quiet elegance, just like my grandmother did. Walking through its labyrinthine streets, I felt a deep sense of history and belonging. Each corner was adorned in foliage, the intricate stone carvings around each window hi lighted by greenery and flowers. Vibrant green window shutters and boxes of flowers adorned almost every windowsill.
What struck me most about Pisticci was its resilience. Like much of my mother’s family, it has undergone a transformation from a forgotten past to a celebrated present. The juxtaposition of its humble beginnings with its newfound recognition reminded me of the power of reinvention — a theme that resonates deeply with my own journey.
Bringing Italy Home
Italy taught me that inspiration is everywhere, deeply rooted in nature. Whether it’s the texture of an ancient stone wall, the vibrant hues of a Tuscan sunset, or the artistry of a perfectly crafted cappuccino, these moments remind me of what it means to live fully and intentionally.
As I continue my creative journey, I’ll carry the lessons of Italy with me: the importance of connection, the beauty of simplicity, and the joy of creating something meaningful and lasting. I hope these reflections inspire you to seek out your own moments of timeless beauty, wherever you may find them.