The Aura Of Croatia And The Italian Way Of Life

Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost

Once named “Black Korcula” by a nymph in Greek mythology because of its thick holm oak and pine forests, Croatia’s sixth largest island offers an appealing mix of historic charm and picturesque natural scenery. Korcula City, with its symmetrical layout that acts as a natural air-conditioning system, is reminiscent of Dubrovnik with its cobblestone lanes and Renaissance buildings. The island is not only known for its architecture, but also for its wine, especially the Posip white wine. The question of whether Marco Polo was born here remains a controversial topic to this day. But Korcula’s true beauty lies in its nature and the relaxed, authentic atmosphere that welcomes every visitor.

Nestled in the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, the city on the south-eastern Adriatic inspires with its historical significance and cultural diversity. Surrounded by mighty city walls that extend up the slopes of the surrounding mountains, Kotor has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. The Romanesque St. Tryphon Cathedral, which houses the relics of the patron saint, and the charming Venetian palaces make the city a real highlight for lovers of history and culture. Other impressive sights include the Church of St. Luke and the Renaissance-style clock tower.

Taormina is a picture-perfect spot: thanks to its scenic location on a hilltop on Sicily’s east coast, the town offers breathtaking views over the majestic Mount Etna and the sparkling Ionian Sea. The ancient amphitheatre is an impressive sight, as well as offering magnificent panoramic views. As you wander around the narrow streets of the old town, enjoy the cafes, elegant boutiques and grand palaces that make up Taormina’s unique charm. Piazza IX Aprile with the Baroque Church of San Giuseppe is a popular meeting point, while the idyllic Isola Bella and surrounding beaches are an inviting place to relax.

Its volcanic origins shape the impressive landscape of the largest of the Aeolian Islands – Lipari is a picture of pumice, obsidian and imposing volcanic peaks. The main town, also called Lipari, has two ports: Marina Lunga in the north for large ferries and Marina Corta in the south, which is at the heart of the busy town. The old town with its historic buildings and narrow streets is ideal for a stroll. A particular highlight is the Quattrocchi view point, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views over the highly active volcanic island of Vulcano and the deep blue sea.

With its exclusive atmosphere, Porto Cervo on the famous Costa Smeralda in Sardinia is the epitome of luxury and elegance. Founded by the visionary Karim Aga Khan IV in the 1960s, the holiday resort has become a hot spot for the rich and famous. Stroll around the luxurious designer boutiques, upmarket restaurants and stylish bars that line the streets. The glamorous marina and romantic Piazzetta, the main square in Porto Cervo, are popular meeting points where you can watch life go by. However, the resort has more to offer than just glamour: surrounded by white beaches and crystal-clear waters, the natural beauty of Sardinia will draw visitors under its spell here.

For centuries, Capri has attracted the rich and famous with its history and beguiling beauty. Emperor Tiberius made the island his seat of government in the year AD 26 and it has remained a popular holiday spot to this day. The island is made up of the charming communities of Capri and Anacapri, each of which has its own unique character. From the centre of Anacapri, a cable car takes you up to Monte Solaro, at 589 m (1,932 ft) above sea level. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the azure-blue sea, the mysterious caves and the jagged cliffs of the island. Capri is captivating with its blend of nature, culture and exclusive atmosphere.

Turquoise caves, steep cliffs and idyllic beaches – the scenic beauty of Ponza, the largest of the Pontinian Islands, is truly eye-catching. According to legend, Odysseus and his companions were stranded here, and the Circe cave brings the island’s ancient past back to life. The romantic main town with its pastel-coloured houses and charming bars exudes a relaxed atmosphere, making it an inviting place to watch the comings and goings of the yachts and fishing boats in the harbour. Ponza is a perfect place to enjoy the magic of Italy’s coastal scenery.

For centuries, Rome ruled much of Europe, building a vast empire from the power of emperors. More than 2,500 years of history live in the city’s streets. Ancient structures recall those heady days when the cheers of 80,000 spectators roared from the Colosseum, citizens mingled in the Forum and senators asked the gods for guidance at the Pantheon. Along with the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, this rich pocket of Italy is one of the world’s greatest repositories of history and civilization.