La Scala concert features violins that inmates made from battered migrant boats
The violins, violas and cellos played by the Orchestra of the Sea in its debut performance at Milan’s famed Teatro alla Scala carry with them tales of desperation and redemption. The wood that was bent, chiseled and gouged to form the instruments was recovered from dilapidated smugglers’ boats that brought migrants to Italy’s shores; the luthiers w...
8 Italian Food Spots in Montclair With Old-School Vibes
New restaurants pop up in Montclair all the time + new eateries are great for a dynamic food scene. But there’s also something special about Italian food spots with old-school vibes that make Montclair the vibrant city we all love. When a craving for a hot Italian sandwich, cannoli, or a classic butter cookie strikes, there are plenty of traditiona...
10 most romantic things to do in Naples: places and ideas for couples
There are certainly no shortage of romantic things to do in Naples. Naples, with its timeless charm, offers a unique stage for unforgettable romantic moments. The city, in fact, is among the most beautiful jewels of Southern Italy. Between breathtaking views and timeless panoramas, there are countless places to visit, in the name of undisputed and...
Marvel studios’ D’Esposito honored by the Russo Brothers
Louis D’Esposito is one of the primary producers of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the co-president of Marvel Studios. His family is originally from Torre del Greco, Naples, and two of the franchise’s greatest directors, Joe and Anthony Russo, are also of Italian heritage. Along with their sister, Angela Russo-Otstot, they have conceived and org...
Where to find Saint Valentine's skull in Rome
Hordes of tourists in Rome queue up every day to stick their hand in the Mouth of Truth while skipping the adjoining church, the fascinating Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. Located near the Circus Maximus in the site of the Forum Boarium, Rome's ancient cattle market, the church is one of the city's finest examples of mediaeval ecclesiastic ar...
Italian Village Pizza celebrates 100 millionth slice sold
From humble beginnings in the former Century III Mall, Italian Village Pizza recently sold it’s 100 millionth slice. It took nearly 44 years and many locations, but the Pittsburgh long-time pizza tradition got it done. It all started with Frank Veltri Sr., who came from Italy to New York City at the age of 12 in 1967. Fast forward to 1980. Veltri h...
The sweet side of carnival: sugar-dusted traditions from around the boot
Chiacchiere, bugie, frappe, and cenci. No matter the name, they are a similar Carnival snack—thin, deep-fried strips of a liqueur-enriched dough that are tossed in sugar and munched upon during the festivities. In Venice, arguably home to Italy’s most famous Carnival celebration, they’re known as crostoli or galani. But these aren’t the only sweet...
An Italian spa expert's nine insider recommendations for thermal spa experiences on the idyllic island of Ischia
Many may have first heard of Ischia through Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan novels, but Italians have long adored this verdant volcanic island in the Gulf of Naples for its spectacular sea views and the healing powers of its thermal springs. Ischia's mineral-charged thermal waters – terme – were discovered 3,000 years ago by the Ancient Greeks. The bub...
Napoli Pizza and Pasta in Astoria
Antonio Petito is the King of Neapolitan style pizza, pasta, and more with a huge following of fans that flow into his cozy, subterranean restaurant on 35th Avenue in Astoria. For 26 years, Napoli Pizza & Pasta has been run by the Petito Family for your family and friends to dine on consistently delicious Italian dishes at a very fair price. An ano...
Shopping, Roman style: the invention of shopping malls
Did you know that the first shopping mall was built in ancient Rome? We are talking about Trajan’s Market. Built around 110 AD, it was a significant architectural achievement for its time: made of red brick and concrete, it originally had up to 150 different shops, offices, and apartments, spread over six levels. Of course, markets were not new in...
Chris R. Vaccaro ’11 Incorporates Public Policy Into His Passions
Alumnus Chris R. Vaccaro, MA ’11, has incorporated his passions — civil engagement, journalism, baseball and Italian American heritage — into everything he does. And he attributes many of his professional successes to the skills he developed at Stony Brook University. Whether it’s been analyzing budgets at The Topps Company and Altice USA, getting...
This Undiscovered Corner of Tuscany Is the Region's Best-kept Secret
San Gimignano, Siena, the Val d'Orcia, and the Chianti hills are all well-trodden areas of Tuscany — and rightly so. They form the iconic scenery of one of Italy's most famous and romanticized regions, with medieval cities, rolling fields, ancient hill towns, and acres of vineyards. For wine, food, history, and stunning views, why go anywhere else?...