A Gift to My Mother for Mother's Day

I have been to Firenze many times, even lived there for a while, but I had never ventured into the Pazzi Chapel. The Basilica of Santa Croce happens to be my favorite in Firenze. I have a special love for it, for many reasons, that I will share in a future blog. But for now, I want to talk about Brunelleschi's Pazzi Chapel. 

On one of my last visits to Firenze, I was drawn to this landmark of Renaissance architecture. It was quite stunning inside, however it was severely deteriorated. The beauty and sadness stirred up a range of emotions in me that I couldn't quite pinpoint. It's a small chapel that wouldn't take long to visit, yet I found myself unable to leave. I took a seat on one of the stone benches and sat there for close to an hour. I was so moved by these emotions that I didn't even take a photo...thus I have none to share today. 

A few months after I returned to New York, I saw a post on social media about a Kickstarter campaign to restore the Pazzi Chapel. As I was considering it, and perusing the various rewards I'd receive as a backer, there was one in particular that jumped out at me. As a backer, "You will become a part of the history of Santa Croce. Your name will be inscribed by hand into a handmade leather book, made at the Scuola del Cuoio (Leather School) on Santa Croce’s premises, and preserved in the historical archive of Santa Croce, where everything about the building, its art and its restoration have been kept since the early 16th century." 

At that moment I knew I'd be supporting this important project! I also knew that I'd be doing so in my mother's honor. Those of you who know me well, know that my trip to Firenze in May of 2014 was to heal from the sudden and devastating death of my mother. I could not find solace in New York, and so I hopped on a plane to the place that had made my heart sing so many times before. My Mother was a bright soul who touched everyone she met in a special way. Her memory lives on in those who loved her in New York. I wanted to commemorate her in Firenze, a place that I love so much, and a place where she had always encouraged me to go and spread my wings. 

I received most of the other rewards last year, like this beautiful limited edition etching:

But recently, I received this. It's a copy of the inscription in the historical archive at Santa Croce. The tears are flowing people. Yes, there is some sadness, but they are mostly of joy in the symbolism of being able to present my Mother with this gift on this special day. 

I plan on returning to Firenze to see this in person and to take photos of the beautifully restored Pazzi Chapel. In fact, Santa Croce has invited me to be a guest blogger and photograph the Church on my next visit! All of this will be done in my Mother's honor, and I look forward to sharing it with all of you.

Wishing everyone a Special Mother's Day filled with love and memory-making moments. Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

To read more about Pazzi Chapel's restoration and to see photos go to Santa Croce in Florence. 

I invite you to visit my Buy Photos Shop where you'll find my latest collection of Photo Notecards and Frame-able Prints. And as always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section, and I'd really love it if you'd share the blog with friends & family. Grazie! 

Spring Flowers of Tuscany

There is something extra special about Spring flowers. Their beauty and delicious scents are reminders that life effortlessly ebbs and flows. When I consider the brilliance of flowers, just knowing that it's time to grow, bloom and sprout up from the earth, I'm reminded that nature doesn't sit around and worry, stress, plan and troubleshoot how it's all going to happen. There's just this innate sense of knowing and allowing, and the result is incredible beauty. They are a great reminder, and the best lesson for me, to trust in the ebb and flow of my own life, and to welcome in the beauty that is meant for me.

I'm sharing some beautiful spring flowers that I shot in Tuscany with you today, in the hope that they align you with the beauty of your own ebb and flow. Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

I invite you to visit my Buy Photos Shop where you'll find my latest collection of Photo Notecards and Frame-able Prints. And as always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section, and I'd really love it if you'd share the blog with friends & family. Grazie! 

PatriciaG Launches...My New Collection is Here!

Ciao a Tutti,

I have exciting news this week! Today I am launching my new collection of Photo Notecards and Frame-able Prints! As most of you already know, I have two loves: Italy & New York City. My love for these two very special places has taken me on a journey to capture random moments that are visually powerful, tell a story, and hopefully nurture, inspire and move you! It has been a true labor of love in creating this new collection and I am thrilled to share it with you!

All of my Frame-able Photo Prints (available in 5"x7" and 8"x10" without matte) are signed by me on the back. My Photo Notecards are personally prepared by me, with special attention and love given to each one. I have a true heart connection with all of my photos, be it through a quick and significant moment, or with a great story to tell.  

In celebration of my exciting new launch, I am pleased to offer all customers a 10% discount! No order is too big or too small to receive this discount. Just punch in the code PGLAUNCH in the Coupons section and click Redeem. The discount will be available for the entire week! (expires at noon on Friday, April 29th)

Thank you dear readers for taking this journey with me. Your support and enjoyment of my photos has inspired me to take this leap. I also want to say a special thank you to my dear friend, Laura Baran, who has been instrumental in getting this shop up and running for me! Grazie mille cara!

I'd really LOVE it if you would share this with your friends and family. And be sure to take advantage of the special PGLAUNCH discount of 10%.

Without further ado, I introduce you to my new collection, via a short video that I put together just for you. For a closer view at your own pace, I invite you to check out the Buy Photos section up top. Grazie! Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

As always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section. Grazie! 

A Great Way to Learn Italian

Ciao a tutti! This week I'm mixing it up a bit. I've asked Roberta, my friend and Italian teacher from Firenze, to give us some advice on Italian terms that might be good to know when traveling in Italy. I've also asked her to give us a glimpse into her amazing Itinerary Tours and what makes them so special! I met Roberta during my stay in Firenze last year. We had one lesson and I was hooked! Until I return to Firenze we have our lessons via Skype! I have learned so much and really enjoy them. Roberta also hosts these amazing Itinerary Tours in Tuscany, where you learn the language while touring the beautiful sites. It's a great combo. Let me have her tell you about it. Ladies & gents, I give you Roberta...

Many travelers choose Tuscany because they are interested in the Italian culture, food, art, architecture, and in the Italian lifestyle. Tourists want to understand how Italians speak, eat, drink, gesticulate…live. These people are on an adventure and are too often bored by standard grammar lessons held in a classroom. I provide them with a different opportunity to learn Italian. 

Working in schools for foreigners, I realized that learning Italian where it is really spoken and where Italians are living, is much more motivating and inspiring. If you can learn in a friendly and informal ambience, in direct contact with the everyday life, you can easily overcome the psychological barrier of speaking a foreign language, and you can enjoy and learn at the same time.

My itinerary is designed for those who want to learn Italian, (and how to survive here!) and deepen their knowledge of the language. Itineraries are flexible, depending on your specific needs and interests: 

• Do you want to understand what is "an aperitivo" and an "etto crudo"?
• Or do you want to learn expressions and vocabulary needed to make purchases at the market? 
• Do you need to discover & taste the best gelato in the city?
• How to order "una coppetta di gelato" or the difference between "caffé macchiato caldo" and "caffé corretto"? 
• Do you want to learn Italian just walking in the city center, in a garden or in a museum? 

I can guide you as you discover how Italians shop at the market, how they spend their time outdoors, how they enjoy themselves at the table, and at the same time you can learn useful expressions. Live as the locals do! La dolce vita! 

As Patricia said, I've put together a few general expressions that will be helpful for you during your stay in Italia. Eccoli: (here they are)

Buon giorno - bwon-jorn-no
Hello /Good morning/afternoon

Buona sera - bwoh-nah seh-rah
Good evening

Buona notte - bwoh-nah noht-teh
Good night

Ciao - chow
Hi/Bye (informal)

Arrivederci - ah-ree-vuh-dehr-chee
Goodbye (formal)

A presto/A dopo - ah press-toh/ah doh-poh
See you soon

A domani - ah doh-mahn-ee
See you tomorrow

Per favore/Per piacere - pehr fah-voh-reh/pehr pee-ah-cheh-reh
Please

Grazie (mille) - graht-zee-eh (mee-leh)
Thank you (very much)

Prego - preh-goh
You're Welcome

Scusi/Scusa - skoo-zee/skoo-zah
Excuse me (formal/informal)

Andiamo! - on-dee-ah-mo
Let's go!

Come sta?/Come stai? - koh-meh stah/koh-meh sty
How are you? (formal/informal)

Sto bene. - stoh beh-neh
I am fine/well.

Come si chiama?/Come ti chiami? - koh-meh see kee-ah-mah/koh-meh tee kee-ah-mee
What's your name? (formal/informal)

Mi chiamo... - mee kee-ah-mo
My name is...

Piacere - pee-ah-cheh-reh
Pleased to meet you.

Signore, Signora, Signorina - seen-yoh-reh, seen-yoh-rah, seen-yoh-reen-ah
Mister, Mrs., Miss

Di dov'è?/Di dove sei? - dee doh-veh/dee doh-veh say
Where are you from? (formal/informal)

Sono di... - soh-noh dee
I am from...

Parla inglese? - par-lah een-gleh-zeh
Do you speak English? (formal)

Non Parlo italiano.  - non par-lo een-gleh-zeh
I don't speak Italian.

Mi dispiace - mee dee-spyah-cheh
Sorry

Capisce?/Capisci? - kah-pee-sheh/kah-pee-shee
Do you understand? (formal/informal)

Non capisco. - non kah-pees-koh
I don't understand.

Non so./Lo so. - non soh/low soh
I don't know./I know.

Può aiutarmi?/Puoi aiutarmi? - pwoh ah-yoo-tar-mee/pwoy ah-yoo-tar-mee
Can you help me? (formal/informal)

Certamente/D'accordo. - cher-tah-mehn-teh/dah-kohr-doh
Sure/OK.

Come? - koh-meh?
What?/Pardon me?

Dov'è/Dove sono...? - doh-veh/doh-veh soh-noh
Where is/Where are... ?

Salute! - sah-loo-teh
Bless you! (as in when someone sneezes)

Ti amo. - tee ah-moh
I love you. (informal)

So there you have it peeps. You are speaking Italian! 

As always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section. Grazie! Ciao! Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

Bicicletta della nonna di Roberta. Roberta's grandmother's bicycle. She rode it to meet me for our lesson. I love it!  

My Main "Must-See" in Firenze

People ask me what my favorite 'Must-see" in Firenze is. Is it the Uffizi? Il Duomo? David at the Accademia? Santa Croce? Piazzale Michelangelo? Boboli Gardens? All great choices! The list goes on and on with all the richness that Florence has to offer...the art, the history, the architecture, the food, the wine, the churches. You might think that I'd have a difficult time choosing...but I don't. The answer might surprise you because my absolute favorite...'What if I only had one day to be in Firenze' "Must-See" is.....(drumroll here) The Arno River. Yes, the Arno!  I love her like a close friend and confidant.

I've walked along her in the daylight, when the sun is setting, in the early evening, and my most favorite time - in the middle of the night, when no one is out and I have her all to myself. (see a snippet of one of my walks in the video) It is my walking meditation as I breathe in beauty, strength, confidence, and as I welcome in wisdom, courage and synchronicity. The Arno brings me back to myself every time.

What would Firenze look like without the Arno River? I can’t even imagine! At any given time of the day, the reflections of the city dance along the river, and provide a canvas for the most breathtaking views, blending so perfectly that it’s sometimes difficult to discern where the earth ends and the sky begins. 

I have walked the Arno and her bridges hundreds, maybe even thousands of times. Even when I'm in NYC I take the walk in my mind's eye. It is one of THE most special places for me. And if someone gave me the chance to fly in and out of Firenze for a day, the first place I would run to is...The Arno.  

What is your favorite "Must-See?" I'd love it if you shared in the Comments section. Grazie! Ciao! Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

Here's that snippet of the video I promised. 

A Vibrant 'Via' I Once Called Home

Via dei Velluti happens to be one of my favorite streets in Firenze. First, it's in the Oltrarno which is so near and dear to my heart. More importantly, I called this tiny little street home the first time I moved to Firenze back in the 90's.  

One could almost miss it, but Via dei Velluti is a jewel in what is already a cradle of beauty & all things fabulous here in Firenze. There is a vibrant community on this little Via. It consists of master craftsmen & women, using ancient skills and traditions passed down through generations. Here you'll stroll by the bottegas (workshops) of furniture restorers (look for the chairs on the ceilings), wood sculptors, bookbinders, jewelry studios, makers of the famous marbled Florentine paper – a tradition still continued by hand, and more! 

If you're in Firenze, I encourage you to check it out. Getting there from the city center is easy. Crossing over Ponte Santa Trinita is my recommendation. It's the next bridge over from Ponte Vecchio, very beautiful, less crowded and just so happens to be my favorite.

Allora....once you cross PST you will find yourself on Via Maggio. Just continue walking a few short blocks, and look up to the left for the little sign:

And don't be shy about popping your head in to say hi! These artisans are not only experts at their craft, but hold an enormous amount of history in their artistic genius and will gladly share.

Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

As always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section. Grazie! Ciao! 

Happy Easter...Buona Pasqua!

Ciao a Tutti,

PatriciaG here wishing you all a very Happy Easter....Buona Pasqua! Keeping it simple this week. Holidays tend to bring us back to the memories of loved ones & special times spent together. This one is no exception. Thought I'd share a few images of Easter's past and to say that I'm so grateful our family instilled these fun traditions to revisit, and to create anew. Dipping an egg into colorful water may seem like a simple act, but the love in how it brings us together is monumental. I wish you & your loved ones a beautiful holiday celebration. Big Love, Happy Easter, Buona Pasqua e Buon Weekend, PatriciaG

The eggs brought out the dinosaur in Nuzzi. 

Some of our work.

Gram's the one who started it all.

Love

Dad's Ceramics

Colors & designs

from Mom

Deb is ready and waiting for us...

As always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section of the blog. Feel free to share your family traditions. Grazie! Ciao! 

Tramonto...Sunset

Ciao a Tutti,

The word for the week is Tramonto! (trah-mon-to) A beautiful sunset can excite, calm, inspire and just make you go ahhhh. With the Arno River providing a canvas for the most breathtaking reflections, the sunsets and evening skies in Firenze are spectacular. 

I often walk the Arno at this time of day as a gift to myself. This week I'd like to share that gift with you. Hope you enjoy. Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

As always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the  Comments section  of the blog. And I invite you to visit my Etsy Shop where most of my photos are available for sale in Photo Note Cards and Frame-able prints. Grazie! Ciao! 

The Charm of Cortona

Nestled in the hills of the Arezzo province, you will find one of the oldest and most enchanting towns in Tuscany...Cortona. Winding through its streets, which can be quite steep at times, provides you with a glimpse into pre-Roman Etruscan life, and will reward you with some of the most breathtaking views of the countryside.  

Admittedly, I do not know a lot about this beautiful city (therefore more photos & less "talk"). I was drawn to it, like many others, by the famous movie Under the Tuscan Sun, based on Frances Mayes' popular book. Kind of cheeky I know, but were it not for this, I may have skipped this beautiful town and that would have been most regrettable. So thank you Ms. Mayes.

As I explored Cortona on foot, I quickly removed myself from the preconceptions based on the movie and immersed myself in the pulse of the town, which was slow in an appreciative way of life. People were taking the time to connect with their neighbors, like the men of Cortona in Piazza della Repubblica. 

There were artists working in their studios, cafes and restaurants getting ready to open, locals getting a haircut, and small shops selling their wares. I popped into un piccolo negozio and the friendly owner offered me herbal tea and shared her beautiful little store with me. I purchased some handmade soaps and something that would change my life when I returned to Firenze - an oil to ward off the zanzare! (mosquitoes). Grazie mille!!

This was daily life, in a most spectacular setting. In catching these special moments, I knew that I must return to Cortona. She deserves further exploration, with the luxury of a slow pace, so that I can drink in all of her beauty, through all of my senses. She deserves more than just a day trip...and so do I. Ritornerò. Certamente. 

Big Love & Buon Weekend, PatriciaG

As always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section of the blog. And I invite you to visit my Etsy Shop where most of my photos are available for sale in Photo Note Cards and Frame-able prints. Grazie! Ciao! 

Have You Met Clet?

If you've spent any time in Firenze, chances are you've come across one of Clet's amusing and provocative street signs. Abraham Clet, a French painter & sculptor, has lived in Italy for over 20 years, and has called Firenze his home for most of them. He has become famous for cleverly altering road signs with removable stickers that he hand-draws, then has them digitized and made into vinyl adhesives. They are then strategically placed so that they don't compromise the traffic sign’s original function.

Clet's transformed signs are not just amusing, but are meant to be provocative. Using street signs as his canvas, Clet continuously challenges institutions and stereotypes that currently exist in our culture. His intent is to encourage people to re-think concepts of justice. He encourages us to always ask the question "Why?" and not just quietly accept the norms or stereotypes imposed by mainstream society, and the powers-that-be; limiting our individual expression and thought. 

Armed with his pack of removable adhesives, Clet roams the streets at night looking for road signs to modify. I love how he maintains the integrity of the signs, while enhancing them to make us stop and think. “I don’t damage the signs – because I use stickers – but I wake up attention and I create a dialogue,” he says. Brilliant!

Clet has modified signs throughout Europe, in Japan, and even came to New York City in 2014. Bummer that I missed him. You must return! Deve ritornare!

Photo credit Untapped Cities.com/Stanton Street, NYC

One afternoon I took a walk over to San Niccolo, in the Oltrarno area of Firenze, to visit his studio. I'm sharing some photos here, but I highly recommend putting it on your itinerary & checking it out for yourself. It's located on Via Dell’Olmo 8r, right off of Via San Niccolo. You can also follow Clet on Facebook and on Instagram. 

Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

Photo credit Laura Baran

As always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section of the blog. And I invite you to visit my Etsy Shop where most of my photos are available for sale in Photo Note Cards and Frame-able prints. Grazie! Ciao! 

I Found Galileo by Taking the Stairs

Ciao a Tutti,

Following on the heels of last week's post "Exiting Palazzo Patrizia," I wanted to take you a little further up. Remember that huge flight of stairs to the left at the end of the video? These famous stairs, Le Rampe Delle Coste, are not only an excellent form of exercise (meaning more pasta, pizza and gelato - yay!) but afford you a unique view of the Arno River and Palazzo Vecchio. 

When I reached the top I turned to take it all in. It was remarkable. Once I caught my breath, (it's approximately 25 huge stone steps) I was about to descend but was drawn to continue up the hill on Costa di San Giorgio. As I was snapping photos and admiring the view, I accidentally stumbled upon the home of Galileo!

It is very unassuming and sits in quiet reverence on this escalating road. If not for the small plaque and the photo, I would have never known that this was one of the places that Galileo called home in Firenze. He purchased it in various phases from 1629 to 1634. 

View fullsize

Galileo Galilei was born on February 15, 1564 and lived until January 8, 1642. He was an Italian astronomer, engineer, mathematician, physicist and philosopher, and he played a major role in the scientific revolution during the Renaissance. If you'd like to learn more about Galileo, the history of science, astronomy, medicine, chemistry and just about everything under the sun (pun intended) you are in luck! The Museo Galileo, is located on the other side of the Arno, in Palazzo Castellani, and it houses a world-renowned scientific collection. Click on the link above for additional information about the Museo Galileo, how to plan your visit, and if you're not in Firenze you can take a virtual tour. 

It is always interesting to me how we find hidden jewels when we're not necessarily looking for them. Taking a set of stairs that looked inviting, and then following my intuition to continue up the hill, turned out to be an amazing discovery. 

Wishing you exciting new discoveries, a Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

As always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section of the blog. And I invite you to visit my Etsy Shop where most of my photos are available for sale in Photo Note Cards and Frame-able prints. Grazie! Ciao! 

And this was my reward on the way back down. 

Exiting Palazzo Patrizia

Hi All/Ciao a Tutti,

I was having some fun with a short video I took while exiting my palazzo via the stairs, all 122 (!) of them, and the thought occurred to me to share it in this week's blog.

Some quick info about my place, it's called Palazzo Tempi and you may have seen it before, since the palazzo tends to be in the background of photos of the Ponte Vecchio. Also, it's directly across the Arno (in the Oltrarno) from the famed Uffizzi Gallery. My apartment sits at the top in what is actually an attic apartment, however I like to refer to it as the Penthouse at Palazzo Patrizia - PPP. (wink) 

Palazzo Tempi, ahem, Patrizia has been around since the 16th century and has been owned by some notable and influential people, including members of the famed Medici family. The splendid stone facade with its "bugnato" (stone in relief) is considered a classic example of late Medieval Florentine architecture, and is preserved as an historical monument.  

But I digress.....here's a peak into my typical departure from the palazzo, which is actually not typical at all, but an event each time I leave. Hope you enjoy! Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

Off the Beaten Path in Firenze

In the Oltrarno in Firenze, between the San Frediano and Santo Spirito districts, there lies the beautiful 15th century church, Chiesa di Santa Monaca. With its sculptures and paintings by Baccio da Montelupo, Giovanni Maria Butteri and Cosimo Ulivelli, Santa Monaca now provides the perfect backdrop for classical music and opera performances. The wooden choir and the organ date back to the seventeenth century! 

I had the pleasure of attending an opera performance there and it was quite magical. I highly recommend that you treat yourself to an evening of music and enchantment if you are blessed to be in Firenze. There are many upcoming events and I’ve provided a link below. 

Before I let you go, I just want to say, main attractions are important to see in your travels. But I encourage you to also save some time to veer off the beaten path. Whether you are in Firenze, or even in your own hometown, see something new. Look up, look down and look everywhere in between. Try something new. Inspiration and connections to your dreams can be hidden in the most unlikely places.

Buon Weekend a Tutti & Big Love, PatriciaG

Chiesa di Santa Monaca Concert Schedule & Tickets

Say Yes! Podcast Interview

Ciao a tutti,

I recently had the honor, and absolute pleasure, of being interviewed by Laura Yamin of Say Yes! Podcast.  “The Say Yes! Podcast is a lifestyle bite-size (15 minutes) podcast where we dive deep in one area that you said yes to. The goal is to inspire women to start saying yes to their desires.”

Laura wanted to learn more about what I SAY YES to, and that is studying the Italian language. “If I want to continue to immerse myself and live my dream of living part-time in Italy and part-time in NY, one of the key ways to getting there is mastering the language. It is my journey. And speaking the language is music to me."

I talk about this and more in our fun and engaging interview and I invite you to listen in here: Laura Yamin Say Yes! And while there, be sure to sign up for Laura's Say Yes! Podcast to be inspired by stories from other women who are following their desires and saying yes to their dreams. 

Buon Weekend and Big Love, PatriciaG

For more information about the people & groups I spoke of in my interview, please visit their websites:

Say Yes! Podcast 
Roberta, private tutor
Casa Italiana 
Italian Cultural Institute in New York 
New York Italians 
One World Italiano

A Little Known Jewel in the Heart of Firenze

There are so many major sites to see in Firenze, making it very easy to miss this jewel. I am so pleased that I found out about it during my January 2015 visit, thanks to my dear friend, Lisa Condie, from Find Yourself in Tuscany.    

The Badia Fiorentina is an ancient abbey and church in the heart of Firenze on Via del Proconsolo, across the street from The Bargello Museum. There are over 1,000 years of history in these walls. 

As I stepped into the Badia Fiorentina, I found myself in an oasis of beauty, art and peacefulness. At Lisa’s recommendation, I went just before Vespers, to have some time for silent reflection, in preparation for what was to come. As I breathed it all in, at 6:00pm, approximately a half dozen nuns and monks from the Fraternity of Jerusalem (the current order inhabiting the abbey) entered in a serene and holy manner. What happened next, I was totally unprepared for. They began their ethereal chanting, in beautiful harmonies, which enveloped me in overwhelming emotion. I suddenly saw my life both simultaneously small and large. The best way to describe this, and I’m not sure I’m doing it justice, is that although I am a little blip on this planet, I am part of the whole, I am part of everyone, and it was tremendous. I felt pure joy and.... well....heaven. I know it sounds a bit out there...even for me, but it was one of the most beautiful moments I’ve ever spent in Firenze. Grazie Lisa!

Supposedly Dante Alighieri, the famous poet, grew up across the street in what is now called Casa di Dante, though it’s possible this was not his real home, but it’s in the vicinity and that's a story for another day. The Badia Fiorentina is said to have been his favorite church. I bring this up because, Inferno, Dan Brown’s famous novel, turned Hollywood thriller, opening October 2016, refers to Dante Alighieri’s The Divine Comedy. In fact, the opening scene of the movie involves the Badia Fiorentina: as a man (that would be Tom Hanks) is chased at night through the city center of Firenze, crosses the Ponte Vecchio, and runs through the medieval streets to the Badia Fiorentina, climbing the bell tower and jumping to avoid being captured. I am so going to see this movie!

I leave you with a few videoclips of the chanting. I didn’t spend too much time filming as I wanted to immerse myself in the experience and not be distracted. I hope you get a sense of peace in listening. And if you are blessed to be in Firenze, I strongly encourage you to visit the Badia Fiorentina.

For more information on the Badia Fiorentina click here.

Buon Weekend & Big Love, PatriciaG

Michelangelo's David

Michelangelo's David is considered to be a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture, and rightfully so. It is magnifico!

Among some first-time visitors to Florence, there tends to be a misconception that the David in Piazza della Signoria is Michelangelo’s original. At one point this was the case. The original was unveiled to the Florentine public on September 8, 1504. However, concerns about damage prompted the powers that be to move David inside, and in 1873 the statue was moved to its current location, Galleria dell'Accademia. In 1910 a replica was placed in Piazza della Signoria, which is what you see today. There’s also one in Piazzale Michelangelo. 

I’d like to include just a quick backtrack here with a tidbit that I only recently found out myself, and thought you might find interesting. David was actually originally meant to be placed on the top of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Il Duomo. However, the marble statue, standing at 17 feet tall, was deemed to be too heavy.  

Although the copy of David is a pretty good likeness, it does not give you the majestic moment of when you feast your eyes upon the original. I still remember vividly the moment I rounded the corner at the Accademia, and saw him for the first time. I literally stopped walking, held my breath and then just sighed. I think there may have been a tear involved as well. Intense.

If you are fortunate enough to visit Florence, be sure to put this on your itinerary. The Accademia Gallery is located on Via Ricasoli 58-60, near Piazza San Marco. It is open Tuesday through Sunday, 8:15am - 6:50pm. If you want to skip the lines, I suggest you purchase your tickets ahead of time at Accademia. Current ticket price is 23 euros. Enjoy and Buon Weekend! Big Love, PatriciaG

La Piazza

By definition, la piazza is basically the town square. However, there is nothing basic about it. The piazza is the life force of a town. It is its centerpiece, its rhythm....il ritmo. The beauty of the piazza is something that could be set to music, and in fact, when I’m sitting in la piazza, watching both locals and stranieri (tourists) go by, I often find the right tune on my ipod to compliment the moment. There is almost always a pleasant surprise waiting for you in la piazza. See what I stumbled upon in Piazza del Carmine, Firenze in the video below. 

But first, I decided to ask a few dear friends, both Italian & American, to share their feelings about the piazza, so that you wouldn’t have to just take my word for it. Their sentiments capture the beauty of the piazza and I am incredibly grateful to them for taking the time to write. Grazie mille! 

Here’s what they had to say: 

Vincenzo Esposito talks about one of my favorite piazzas in Firenze:

Piazza della Signoria oggi....La piazza e' il luogo di incontro, di spaccio, di divertimento, dove si puo'giocare a calcio da piccoli, dove si ascoltano i concerti da grandi. Dove i ricordi rimangono per sempre e ogni volta che le attraversiamo ritroviamo un po' di noi stessi! Buon Anno!

Piazza della Signoria....Today the square is the place to meet, shop, have fun, where you can play soccer as a child, where you can listen to great concerts as an adult. It is where memories live forever, and every time we cross the square we rediscover a little piece of ourselves! Happy New Year!

Photo credit: Enzo Esposito: Piazza della Signoria, Firenze

Cassandra Santoro from Travel Italian Style 

Italians are always talking about la dolce vita & la dolce farniente lifestyle but where does it all come from anyway? This was always my question when I first started to travel Italy over 10 years ago. Then suddenly when I took my first step into the local piazza the answer came to me rather quickly.

The piazza is the town’s pride, the gathering spot, the market location, the place to enjoy a passiaggata or gelato during your free time—this is the heart of any Italian city! This is the place where they gather together to celebrate the pride they have for their village and culture.

All the secrets can be found in this main square and you too can be a part of it, even just by enjoying a few moments in a local cafe where you can sit and watch it all come to life. Italians just do it best and they do it even better in the piazza. 

Photo credit: Cassandra Santoro - Festival in the Village of San Vito dei Normanni in Puglia

Nicholas Coleman from Grove and Vine

Most small Italian villages have a piazza, which is the centerpiece of the community.  Antique fairs, art shows, annual celebrations and the finest cups of espresso are enjoyed with friends basking under the warm afternoon glow.  My personal favorite is the Piazza Grande in the ancient Etruscan town of Arezzo.

Stock photo: Piazza Grande, Arezzo

Chiara Bacco from Padua, Italia

The piazza is the perfect place to enjoy a gelato or prendiamo un caffe (have a coffee). In the morning there is usually a market where you can shop for fruits and vegetables that are locally grown. 

What I love to do most in the piazza is to meet up with my friends for an aperitivo. It is the highlight of the day, where we come together to catch up, have a cocktail or a Spritz, and decide where the rest of the evening will take us. 

My favorite is Piazza dei Signori in my hometown of Padua, Italy.

Stock photo: Piazza dei Signori, Padua

As promised above, here's a slice of one of my favorite piazza moments in Firenze.

Note: this page can be translated by clicking the "Select Language" arrow, top left of the page. Nota: questa pagina può essere tradotto facendo clic sulla freccia "Select Language", in alto a sinistra della pagina.

My Love for Photography & Italy began with one photo

My love for taking photographs began over 20 years ago on my inaugural trip to Italy. Perhaps it was the air, or the architecture, or the vino, or the shift in my vision from being outside my comfort zone and in a foreign land. Maybe it was everything combined. Whatever the source, that first click of the camera, of this fountain in Rome, ignited a desire in my heart to capture the miracle when special moments are created and especially when those moments are in Italy. It was a defining moment that initiated what I now call “Happy Heart Patricia.”

My work features my love for architecture, food, nature, street photography, and most of all, capturing random moments in life that are visually powerful, revealing the beauty and soul of our world. 

My desire is for people to be nurtured, inspired and moved by my images. In capturing moments in time, I hope to show that we are all connected in this world and that our similarities outshine our differences.

I invite you to do something that inspires you and makes your heart happy this weekend. 

Big Love, PatriciaG

All photos are available in notecards and frameable prints. Just message me and I'll hook you up. Or check out my Etsy Shop for a small sampling. Grazie. 

Buon Anno a Tutti! Happy New Year Everyone!

Wow I can’t believe a year has already passed. Last year at this time I was celebrating the start of a new year in Firenze, Italy. 

My theme, or mantra, for the year was “In Pursuit of Magic & Miracles.” In living with that expectation, I manifested some stellar life moments as well as some serious and pivotal challenges. I have welcomed them all (although some were easier than others) since I know each play a role in my next steps forward.

I like the concept of Magic & Miracles and I’m not ready to let it go just yet, so I’m sticking with it. But it needs an upgrade. Thanks to the experiences of 2015, I am no longer "in pursuit" of Magic & Miracles. I believe in them wholeheartedly now. And so, in this new year of 2016, I stand my ground, with arms open wide, and I “Welcome all Magic & Miracles, in the most perfect way!” 

May you and your loved ones have a New Year filled with Magic & Miracles, and may all your dreams come true. Big Love, PatriciaG

For information on Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral and, also referred to as Il Duomo, and the Opera del Duomo Museum, check out Il Grande Museo del Duomo.  It is comprised of historical riches that are a must see on your visit to Firenze. Your 15 euro ticket includes entry to: the Cathedral, Brunelleschi's Dome, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistery of San Giovanni (also newly restored), the Crypt of Santa Reparata and the Opera Museum.  

Merry Christmas, Buon Natale from PatriciaG Loves Italy!

If you know me, you know that my two loves are New York City and Firenze. 

I wanted to share some Christmas pics from both places. I’ve got NYC covered. 

I have Firenze pics too, but they're from my trip last year. I wanted to see some sparkly decorations from this year, so I asked my friend and fellow photographer, Claudio Arcuri, to help me out. He took a twirl around the city and sent me these lovely pics. I especially love the bells! Grazie C!

New York...Firenze...wherever you are, I wish you a beautiful celebration filled with love, laughter, great food, and the glow of Christmas Magic. Big Love, PatriciaG

Firenze photo credit: Claudio Arcuri. I am a big fan of Claudio's body of work. His photographs are intense and visually stunning. I invite you to view some more here: Claudio Arcuri.