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villacostadeglidei · 5 months ago

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Oceanview Villa Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, with its breathtaking landscapes and azure waters, is a dream destination for travelers worldwide. Known for its stunning vistas, charming towns, and luxurious accommodations, this Italian coastline offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Among the many luxurious villas that dot this picturesque region, Villa Costa Degli Dei stands out as an exceptional choice for those seeking an oceanview escape. This blog delves into the myriad reasons why Villa Costa Degli Dei is the ultimate destination for a luxurious and unforgettable stay on the Amalfi Coast.

I. Introduction: The Allure of the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a 50-kilometer stretch of coastline along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, stunning seascapes, and quaint towns, this area has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique cultural and natural attributes. The region is home to several iconic towns, including Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each offering its own charm and attractions. The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its culinary delights, historical sites, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

II. Discovering Villa Costa Degli Dei: A Jewel in Praiano

A. The Ideal Location

Villa Costa Degli Dei is located in the serene town of Praiano, nestled between the more bustling towns of Positano and Amalfi. This prime location offers guests the perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility. Praiano is known for its peaceful atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and less crowded beaches, making it an ideal base for exploring the Amalfi Coast. The villa’s elevated position on the cliffs provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Li Galli islands, and the distant island of Capri. The location also offers easy access to local shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.

B. Architectural Elegance and Interior Design

The architecture of Villa Costa Degli Dei reflects the traditional Mediterranean style, characterized by whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, and arched windows. The villa’s design emphasizes harmony with the natural surroundings, with large windows and terraces that offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. Inside, the villa features a blend of classic and contemporary furnishings, creating an elegant and comfortable atmosphere. The interiors are decorated with fine materials, such as marble and ceramic tiles, and the decor is enhanced with local artwork and stylish accents.

III. Luxurious Accommodations and Amenities

A. Spacious and Elegant Bedrooms

Villa Costa Degli Dei offers a range of luxurious accommodations, including several spacious bedrooms and suites. Each room is designed with comfort and elegance in mind, featuring high-quality linens, comfortable beds, and tasteful decor. Many rooms offer stunning ocean views, allowing guests to wake up to the sight of the sun rising over the Mediterranean. The en-suite bathrooms are equipped with modern amenities, including rain showers, soaking tubs, and marble fixtures, providing a spa-like experience. The villa also includes a master suite with a private terrace and Jacuzzi, perfect for those seeking an extra touch of luxury.

B. Living and Dining Areas

The villa’s living areas are designed to provide a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. The spacious living room features comfortable seating, a fireplace, and a large flat-screen TV, making it an ideal space for gatherings. The dining area, with its elegant table and chairs, is perfect for enjoying meals with family and friends. The fully equipped kitchen boasts modern appliances, allowing guests to prepare their own meals if they wish. Alternatively, a private chef can be arranged to create exquisite Italian dishes using fresh, local ingredients. The villa also features a wine cellar stocked with a selection of fine wines, perfect for pairing with meals or enjoying on the terrace.

C. Outdoor Spaces and Recreational Facilities

One of the highlights of Villa Costa Degli Dei is its expansive outdoor spaces. The villa features multiple terraces, each offering breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. The main terrace includes a swimming pool, sun loungers, and a shaded dining area, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor dining. A private garden, filled with Mediterranean plants and flowers, adds to the villa’s charm. For those who enjoy cooking outdoors, a barbecue area is available for use. The villa also offers a range of recreational facilities, including a fitness area, a yoga deck, and a private path leading down to the sea.

D. Personalized Services

Villa Costa Degli Dei offers a range of personalized services to ensure that guests have a truly memorable stay. A dedicated concierge is available to assist with planning activities, excursions, and transportation. Daily housekeeping ensures that the villa remains clean and comfortable throughout the stay. For those seeking relaxation, in-villa spa services, including massages and beauty treatments, can be arranged. Additionally, guests can take advantage of private transportation services, including transfers to and from the airport, as well as guided tours and excursions.

IV. Exploring the Surroundings: The Best of the Amalfi Coast

A. Praiano and Nearby Attractions

Praiano is an ideal starting point for exploring the many attractions of the Amalfi Coast. This charming town offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to its more famous neighbors, with beautiful beaches, local shops, and authentic Italian restaurants. The Church of San Gennaro, with its stunning views and intricate tile work, is a must-visit site in Praiano. Nearby, the town of Positano is famous for its colorful houses, boutique shops, and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Amalfi, the coast’s namesake town, boasts a rich history, beautiful architecture, and the impressive Amalfi Cathedral.

B. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventures

The natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast is one of its main attractions, and Villa Costa Degli Dei provides an excellent base for exploring the region’s stunning landscapes. Guests can enjoy boat excursions to explore the coastline, visit the famous Blue Grotto, or take a day trip to the island of Capri. Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to explore, including the famous Path of the Gods, which offers breathtaking views of the coast and the sea. For those who enjoy water sports, activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking are available in the clear, blue waters of the Mediterranean.

C. Culinary Delights and Wine Experiences

The Amalfi Coast is a culinary paradise, known for its delicious cuisine and fresh, local ingredients. Guests at Villa Costa Degli Dei can explore the region’s many restaurants and trattorias, enjoying dishes such as fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and local specialties like limoncello. The villa’s concierge can also arrange for private dining experiences, including cooking classes with local chefs. Wine lovers will appreciate the region’s excellent wines, including those produced from local grape varieties. Wine tastings and tours of local vineyards are available, offering guests the opportunity to sample some of the best wines the region has to offer.

V. Tips for Booking and Staying at Villa Costa Degli Dei

A. Best Time to Visit

The Amalfi Coast is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months of June to August are the most popular, offering warm weather and a vibrant atmosphere. However, this is also the busiest time, so booking well in advance is recommended. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for those who prefer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter (November to March) is the quietest time and offers a more relaxed experience, although some attractions and restaurants may be closed.

B. Booking Tips

When booking Villa Costa Degli Dei, it’s essential to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Early booking ensures you secure your preferred dates and may also offer better rates. Consider working with a reputable villa rental agency or booking directly with the villa’s management for the best experience. Be sure to review the villa’s policies, including cancellation terms and security deposit requirements, before confirming your reservation.

C. Travel Preparation

Preparing for a stay at Villa Costa Degli Dei involves more than just packing your bags. Guests should arrange transportation to and from the villa, whether renting a car or arranging private transfers. It’s also advisable to familiarize yourself with the local area, including nearby amenities, restaurants, and emergency services. Packing appropriate clothing is essential, with lightweight, breathable fabrics recommended for the summer months and warmer layers for the cooler seasons. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

D. Local Etiquette and Practical Tips

Understanding local customs and etiquette can enhance your experience on the Amalfi Coast. Italians are known for their warm hospitality, and polite greetings are appreciated. When dining out, it’s customary to leave a small tip for good service, although service charges are often included in the bill. Learning a few basic Italian phrases can be helpful and is appreciated by locals. Finally, be mindful of the environment and respect local regulations, such as those regarding waste disposal and conservation efforts.

VI. Testimonials and Guest Experiences

A. Guest Reviews

Villa Costa Degli Dei has received rave reviews from guests who have stayed there. Many highlight the villa’s stunning views, luxurious amenities, and excellent service. Guests often mention the villa’s ideal location, which provides easy access to the Amalfi Coast’s attractions while offering a peaceful retreat. The attentive and helpful staff are frequently praised, with many guests noting that their stay exceeded expectations.

B. Memorable Moments

Guests at Villa Costa Degli Dei often share memorable moments from their stay, from enjoying a candlelit dinner on the terrace to taking a dip in the pool with a view of the sea. Many mention the joy of exploring the local area, discovering hidden beaches, and tasting authentic Italian cuisine. For many, the villa provides a perfect setting for celebrating special occasions, such as anniversaries, honeymoons, and family reunions.

C. Visual Gallery

A picture is worth a thousand words, and Villa Costa Degli Dei’s beauty is best appreciated through visual imagery. High-quality photos of the villa, its interiors, and the surrounding landscapes capture the essence of this luxurious retreat. A virtual tour or video can also provide a more immersive experience, allowing potential guests to envision their stay. Showcasing the villa’s features and the stunning Amalfi Coast scenery helps convey the unique appeal of this exceptional destination.

VII. Conclusion

Villa Costa Degli Dei is truly one of the best oceanview villas on the Amalfi Coast, offering a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and authentic Italian charm. Its prime location, stunning views, and luxurious amenities make it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a memorable Mediterranean escape. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, explore the local culture, or enjoy the region’s culinary delights, Villa Costa Degli Dei provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable vacation. Book your stay today and experience the magic of the Amalfi Coast for yourself.

This blog provides a comprehensive and detailed overview of Villa Costa Degli Dei, showcasing its many features and the unique experiences it offers. Each section can be expanded with more detailed descriptions, personal anecdotes, guest testimonials, and high-quality images to create a rich and engaging narrative. If you have any specific details or additional content you’d like to include, please let me know!

#Oceanview Villa Amalfi Coast

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revesdautomobiles · 3 years ago

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#ford #capri #Capri XL #capri ii #Automania 2021 Creutzwald Villa de la Clairière #cars #vehicle #youngtimer #voiture #automobile #photo

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viaggifintishedirpharma · 5 years ago

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5 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Italy

A country that wears its culture and history with pride, Italy sure has a way of blowing the tourist mind. Little wonder it’s one of the most preferred tourist destinations in the world. It’s full of life, great art treasures, architectural wonders, iconic food, chic shopping, high-end fashion, gorgeous landscapes, and even romance. Not to forget, that the world’s famous Roman ruins are in Italy itself. Here is a place you can spend most of the vacay and still feel like you still have a lot to explore. With the endless opportunities and countless beautiful places to explore, cutting down the list to 5 most beautiful places seems pretty difficult. But here we go:

Shediir pharma, a leading wholesale supplement organizes trips and conferences to deliver luxe experiences around the world. A company that boasts of extensive knowledge of travel trends, world best hotels, restaurants, destinations and many more. It’s no doubt the Viaggi Finti Shedir Pharma is all a bid to bring down the company good repuation. This list is only a sneak peek of how much the company has shared their expertise on places to visit, eat, explore and have a wonderful experience while in the country. Read on!

Positano

Nestled on a prime location on the Amalfi Coast, Positano is a beautiful beachy town in Italy that promises a whole lot of wonderful experiences. From amazing food and wine to breathtaking views of the noble pebble beach, here is a place to live your Italian dream.

What do while in Positano

Visit some of the world’s most impressive archeological sites, Mt. Vesuvius and Pompei. Take a refreshing tour to the Amalfi coast to see the Italian vineyards, enjoy a cool afternoon on Positano’s iconic beaches, and Visit the legendary Church of Santa Maria Assunta Go Path of the Gods Hiking?

Cinque Terre

A string of colorful five fishing villages perched along rugged Italian Riviera coastline. Cinque Terre harbors the spirit of Italian and the beauty is something anyone will look forward to seeing over and over again. The five villages include Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, and Vernazza, each with tons of activities to enjoy. Aside from taking banging Instagram worthy photos, here are other stunning things to in Cinque Terre that will forever be ingrained in your memories:

Enjoy gorgeous views of Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero. Dare to cliff jump with the localsTreat yourself to an amazing meal in any of the top restaurants at Trattoria dal Billy Enjoy a romantic walk at the world’s famous lovers’ lane of via dell'Amore. Enjoy an awesome sun basking at Vernazza’s sandy beach.

Capri

Located off the Amalfi coast in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the Sorrento Peninsula in the Campanian region of Italy. It is an island with a resort, restaurant, mountaintop scenery, and the popular Blue Grotto. Being in existence since the time of the Roman Republic, Capri is home to the Mediterranean bush and the ilex wood. The native fauna includes robin, the blue lizard of the Faraglioni, blackbirds, and geckos and so on.

Things to do while in Capri

Visit Blue Grotto, one of the most famous places in Capri. Known for its blue color and its crystal clear water. Experience the crashing wave beneath the Faraglioni. Also, explore the tidy villas with their elegant garden.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Situated in the center of Milan and housed within a four-story arcade in the center of the city, this is the oldest active mall in Italy. Named after Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of the kingdom of Italy. This place is full of life, luxurious brands, food, fashion items, and souvenirs. After a great shopping, check out The Duomo and the Teatro All Scala. Satisfy your cravings at any of the historical restaurant in the heart of the mall. Explore the historical art and luxury of the museum under an astonishing glass roof.

#italy #Italy Travel #viaggi finti #viaggi finti shedir pharma #Visit in Italy

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kroghsrestaurantandbrewpub · 2 years ago

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The tradition before the tradition is two days away! Who's ready to run, drink, eat and be thankful? 🦃 The 16th annual Krogh's Turkey Trot is almost here and the start line is right out in front of Krogh's! The Krogh Bar will open at 8 am, stay open till late that day, and our kitchen will be closed. 🏃‍♂️ Here's more important info: Race Info for Thursday, November 24, 2022: 1 mile Fun Run begins at 8:15 am / 5k begins at 8:45 am 🦃 Packet Pick Up Packet pick-up and on-site registration will be in the main ballroom of the Lake Mohawk Country Club. You may pick up your race packet on Wednesday, November 23 from 5-8:00 pm OR Thursday morning beginning at 7:00 am. Check-in ends at 8:00 am on race day. 🏃‍♂️ Pasta Party All registered participants are invited to the Pasta Party, catered by Villa Capri II, on Wednesday, November 23 in the main ballroom at Lake Mohawk Country Club. Registered runners are free and guests are only $5. So after you pick up your packet from 5-8:00 pm, stop by for some carb-loading and meet the competition! 🦃 Parking on Race Day Here is a list of available parking lots on race day. Please pay attention to posted signs and do not park where prohibited. Lake Mohawk Country Club parking lot / Mohawk Avenue School / Coldwell Banker or Theatre Centre on Woodport Road 🏃‍♂️ Procrastinator??? You can still register on the morning of the race from 7-8:00 am. Race-day registration is $35 for Adult 5K, $30 for Youth 5K 17 yr or younger and $20 for the Fun Run. All are welcome. 🦃 @spartaeducationfoundation #kroghs #kroghbar #brewpub #brewpubnj #kroghsnest #turkeytrot #turkeytrot2022 #thetraditionbeforethetradition #thanksgivingmorningtradition #community #lakemohawk #lakemohawknj #spartanj (at Krogh's Restaurant & Brew Pub) https://www.instagram.com/p/ClQ-_1tOKkQ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#kroghs #kroghbar #brewpub #brewpubnj #kroghsnest #turkeytrot #turkeytrot2022 #thetraditionbeforethetradition #thanksgivingmorningtradition #community #lakemohawk #lakemohawknj #spartanj

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trustkits · 2 years ago

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Gallo lungo

The property has been on and off the market for years, most recently a public listing of the three islands in 2011 was for US$268,000,000. The island was described by the playwright’s wife, Isabella, in a book entitled, In mezzo al mare un'isola c'è. Isca has a villa and garden on the side facing the cliff (and, thus, not visible if sailing behind the island). The Neapolitan playwright Eduardo De Filippo purchased this island, which was later owned by his son Luca De Filippo. Members of the public are not allowed to land but can swim in the surrounding waters. He also installed a desalinization plant which provided a reliable water supply to and assisted in the development of the gardens,Īfter Nureyev’s death the islands were purchased from his foundation in 1996 by Giovanni Russo, a Sorrento hotelier who besides using them as a private residence also makes them available for private rental with a staff of 7 and a launch to take guests to and from the mainland. He redecorated the villa in the Moorish style and clad its interiors with 19th-century tiles from Seville. Shirley Hazzard in her book Greene on Capri recounts a visit to Massine.Īfter Massine’s death the islands were purchased in 1988 by Russian dancer Rudolf Nureyev, who spent the last years of his life here. The villa featured the bedrooms facing Positano with a large terrace garden on the first floor facing Cape Licosa and Capri. With design advice from his friend Le Corbusier he constructed a villa on the site of the original Roman structure. The theatre was subsequently destroyed by a storm. Initially Massine restored and converted the old Aragonese Tower on Gallo Lungo into accommodation with a dance studio and featuring an open-air theatre. In 1922, he purchased Gallo Lungo and began converting it from a place of defense into a private residence. In 1919 the Russian choreographer and dancer Leonide Massine sighted the islands while staying with a friend in Positano. The town later sold the islands to a native of Salerno who sold them to Davide Pariato. Eventually with the establishment of the Republic of Italy ownership passed to the town of Positano. Responsibility for the islands then passed to Catalian Gilberto Squanes, the Miroballo family and then to the Marino Mastrogiudice before passing to the crown and then the Marquises of Positano. The wardenship was subsequently passed to Angelo Balbo in 1382 and in 1425 to Viviano Mirelli. The tower (today called the Aragonese Tower) was constructed around 1312 and occupied by a garrison of four soldiers. As he lacked sufficient funds he accepted an offer from Pasquale Celentano of Positano to lend the required funds, in return for being appointed warden of the fortification. To deter them, Charles wished to build a watchtower on top of the remains of a Roman tower on Gallo Lungo. Originally Gallo Lungo hosted a monastery and then a prison.ĭuring the reign Charles II of Naples (late 13th century), the Amalfi coast became subject to increasing attacks by pirates. Originally the site of an ancient Roman anchorage, in the Middle Ages the islands became medieval fiefdoms of the 13th-century Emperor Frederick II and the Capetian House of Anjou. The modern name, I Galli or The Cocks, references the bird-like form of the ancient sirens. The terms Sirenai and Sirenusai, from the Latin Sirenusae, meaning indicate both the sirens themselves and their residence. In ancient stories, the sirens were depicted as having bodies of a bird and human heads, but the medieval interpretations of the stories depicted them as mermaids. They are mentioned in the 1st century BC by Strabo, the Greek Geographer and by Straton of Sardis in 120 AD. One of them played the lyre, another sang, and another played the flute. Several sirens were said to have inhabited the islands, the most famous of whom were Parthenope, Leucosia, and Ligeia. Smaller islets include, nearer the shore, Isca and, midway between the main islands and Isca, a prominent rocky outcropping that juts above the water, Vetara. La Castelluccia, also known as Gallo dei Briganti.Gallo Lungo, which takes the form of a dolphin.The archipelago consists of three main islands:

#Gallo lungo

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micro961 · 3 years ago

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Cantagiro 2021

La finalissima in programma il 4 Settembre a Tivoli Si aprirà a breve il sipario per le serate Finalissime dell’edizione 2021 del Cantagiro in programma sabato 4 e domenica 5 Settembre presso l'antico anfiteatro romano di Tivoli, conosciuto come Anfiteatro di Bleso, sito risalente al II secolo dell'Età Imperiale. Il Comune di Tivoli e il Cantiere Turismo Tivoli hanno accolto e aderito con entusiasmo alla scelta dell'organizzazione della storica kermesse musicale, concedendo il Patrocinio dell’Amministrazione Comunale. Del resto il comune di Tivoli è abituato ad essere al centro dell'attenzione con eventi legati alle numerose ricchezze archeologiche che offre. Situato ad est e facente parte della città metropolitana di Roma, è di per sé una location di inestimabile bellezza: qui si trovano ben due siti Unesco, Villa Adriana e Villa d’Este, il sito FAI di Villa Gregoriana, l'architettura militare di Rocca Pia, Il Santuario di Ercole Vincitore e un centro storico medievale unico. E tanto altro. Una scelta vincente che coniuga bellezza storica e culturale alla qualità della musica e dei nuovi talenti. Anche quest'anno la macchina organizzativa del Cantagiro è stata impeccabile. Il coordinamento gestito dal Direttore generale ed artistico Elvino Echeoni e del Patron Enzo De Carlo ha garantito lo standard qualitativo che contraddistingue l'intera manifestazione canora.

La serata finale sarà presentata da Cristiana Ciacci (figlia di Little Tony nativo proprio di Tivoli) insieme a Marco Zingaretti, con la partecipazione straordinaria di Claudio Lippi e saranno ospiti Davide De Marinis, la Little Tony Family. Durante la serata Cristiana Ciacci presenterà il suo libro “Mio padre Little Tony”, da poco pubblicato, dove racconta la storia della sua famiglia e del rapporto con il noto papà. Come ogni edizione saranno attribuiti i Premi Speciali, Sergio Bardotti e il Premio Little Tony. Si partirà in primis con la finalissima per la categoria New Voice, in programma il 1 Settembre e grandi novità riguarderanno l’ “Accademia del Cantagiro”. Non mancheranno momenti emozionanti, sorprese ed ospiti d'eccezione del panorama musicale italiano che accompagneranno i finalisti fino al momento conclusivo della nomina del vincitore. Il tutto seguito da un'attenta giuria composta da professionisti del settore (discografici, autori, artisti, giornalisti, esperti di comunicazione) che valuteranno le esibizioni dei concorrenti. La stessa modalità verrà applicata per la scelta dei vincitori delle categorie Band e Junior-Baby che si svolgerà nel pomeriggio di domenica 5 Settembre. Tra gli ospiti che si alterneranno durante la manifestazione confermata la presenza del Mago Heldin. Spettacolo, divertimento e soprattutto musica di qualità sono dunque gli ingredienti del successo del Cantagiro e ne distinguono da sempre lo stile. Parlare de “Il Cantagiro” significa tuffarsi nella storia della canzone, dello spettacolo e del costume italiano. Un'idea ancora oggi vincente, concepita nel 1962 da Ezio Radaelli figura indimenticabile del management musicale. Un festival itinerante, una sorta di “Giro d'Italia canoro” che portava alla ribalta talenti e voci reclutati in varie tappe lungo tutta la penisola, con una carovana festosa e gente nelle strade e piazze di tutta Italia.

La prima edizione del 1962 fu vinta da Adriano Celentano; negli anni successivi si aggiudicarono il primo posto artisti del calibro di Massimo Ranieri, Gianni Morandi, Peppino Di Capri, Rita Pavone, Caterina Caselli. Negli anni ’60 Il Cantagiro era l'evento musicale italiano più importante al quale ambivano a partecipare cantanti come Domenico Modugno, Claudio Villa, Lucio Battisti, Gino Paoli e Lucio Dalla. Nel 2005 il marchio è stato rilevato da Enzo De Carlo che ne ha ereditato la gestione ed ha unito lo storico e glorioso trascorso con un rilancio in chiave moderna, unendo i valori storici e culturali con la capacità di rinnovamento e adattamento verso le nuove generazioni. Uno dei valori che distingue ad oggi Il Cantagiro è quello di essere un concorso “reale” dove i concorrenti si sfidano davanti ad un pubblico vero e propongono già dalle semifinali un brano inedito. Una scelta di grande valore culturale, sia per la musica in se stessa, sia per gli autori ed i cantanti che sono così stimolati alla creatività di nuove canzoni e nuove idee.

Un grande obiettivo che mette in luce il futuro della musica italiana . Da qualche anno è costante e partecipata la presenza sui principali canali Social con gli hashtag #iostoconilcantagiro #ilcantagiro2021 #unatempestadiemozioni #ilcantagiro. La manifestazione è affiancata dalla presenza di sponsor/partners “storici”: Siae, Radio Italia Anni 60, Mio, Vip, Eva 3000, Radio RCS, 2duerighe.

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cuisinedegrandpere · 3 years ago

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«À ce moment la porte s'ouvrit, et sur le seuil, précédés par le majordome, quatre valets en livrée apparurent apportant, sur une espèce de brancard recouvert d'un magnifique brocart rouge aux armes des ducs de Tolède, un énorme poisson couché au milieu d'un immense plateau d'argent.

Un « oh ! » de joie et d'admiration parcourut la table, et en s'écriant : « voici la Sirène ! » le général Cork se tourna vers Mrs. Flat, et s'inclina.

Le majordome, aidé des valets, déposa le plateau au milieu de la table, devant Mrs. Flat, et recula de quelques pas.

Tous regardèrent le poisson, et pâlirent.

Un petit cri d'horreur s'échappa des lèvres de Mrs. Flat, et le général Cork blêmit.

Une petite fille, quelque chose qui ressemblait à une petite fille, était étendue sur le dos au milieu du plateau, sur un lit de vertes feuilles de laitue, dans une grande guirlande de branches de corail. Elle avait les yeux ouverts, les lèvres demi-closes : et contemplait d'un regard étonné le Triomphe de Vénus peint au plafond par Luca Giordano. Elle était nue : mais sa peau brune, luisante, du même violet que la robe de Mrs. Flat, modelait exactement comme une robe ses formes encore hésitantes et déjà harmonieuses, la ligne douce de ses hanches, la légère éminence de son ventre, ses petites seins virginaux, ses épaules larges et pleines.

Elle ne devait pas avoir plus de huit ou dix ans, bien qu'à première vue, tant elle était précoce et ses formes déjà féminines, elle parût en avoir quinze. Déchirée çà et là, ou élimée par la cuisson, surtout sur les épaules et sur les hanches, la peau laissait entrevoir à travers les cassures et les fêlures la chair tendre, tantôt argentée, tantôt dorée, si bien qu'elle semblait vêtue de violet et de jaune, tout à fait comme Mrs. Flat.

Et tout comme celui de Mrs. Flat, son visage (qui l'eau bouillante avait fait éclater comme un fruit trop mûr hors de son écorce) était semblable à un masque brillant de porcelaine ancienne. Elle avait, comme Mrs. Flat, les lèvres saillantes, le front étroit et haut,, les yeux ronds et verts. Ses bras étaient courts, des espèces de nageoires se terminant en pointe, en forme de main sans doigts. Une mèche de soies, presque des cheveux, ornait le sommet de sa tête, tombant le long du petit visage, tout ramassé et comme recroquevillé, dans une espèce de grimace pareille à un sourire, autour de la bouche. Les hanches, longues et fines, se terminaient, comme dit Ovide, in piscem, en queue de poisson.

La petite fille gisait dans son cercueil d'argent, et semblait dormir. Mais, par suite d'un oubli impardonnable du cuisinier, elle dormait comme dorment les morts auxquels personne n'a eu le soin pieux de fermer les paupières, elle dormait les yeux ouverts. Elle contemplait les Tritons de Luca Giordano soufflant dans leurs conques marines, les dauphins, attelés au char de Vénus, galopant sur les ondes, Vénus toute nue assise dans son char d'or, au milieu du cortège blanc et rose de ses Nymphes, et Neptune, debout dans sa coquille, brandissait son trident, emporté par la fougue de ses chevaux blancs, encore altérés du sang innocent d'Hippolyte. Elle contemplait le Triomphe de Vénus peint au plafond, cette mer bleue, ces poissons argentés, ces verts monstres marins, ces blancs nuages errant au fond de l'horizon : cette mer, c'était sa patrie perdue, le pays de ses rêves, le royaume heureux des Sirènes.

C'était la première fois que je voyais une petite fille cuite, une petite fille bouilllie : et je me taisais, étreint par une terreur sacrée. Tous les convives étaient pâles d'horreur.

Le général Cork regarda ses hôtes, et d'une voix tremblante s'écria :

- Mais ce n'est pas un poisson !... C'est une petit fille !

- Non, dis-je, c'est un poisson.

- Êtes-vous sûr que c'est un poisson, un vrai poisson ? Me demanda le général Cork en passant sa main sur son front baigné d'une sueur froide.

- C'est un poisson, dis-je, c'est la fameuse Sirène de l'Aquarium. »

Après la libération de Naples, les Alliés avaient, pour des raisons militaires, interdit la pêche dans le golfe : entre Sorrente et Capri, entre Capri et Ischia, la mer était barrée de champs de mines et parcourue par des mines à la dérive, qui rendaient la pêche dangereuse. Et les Alliés, surtout les Anglais, n'osaient pas laisser les pêcheurs aller au large, de crainte qu'ils n'apportassent des renseignements aux sous-marins allemands, ou ne les ravitaillassent en mazout, ou ne missent en danger, d'une façon quelconque, les centaines et les centaines de navire de guerre, de transports militaires, de Liberty-Ships, ancrés dans le golfe. Se méfier des pêcheurs napolitains ! Les croire capables de tels crimes ! Mais ainsi vont les choses du monde : la pêche était interdite.

Il était impossible de trouver dans Naples, je ne dis pas un poisson, mais une arrête de poisson : pas une sardine, pas une sole, pas une langouste, pas un rouget, pas une petit poulpe, rien. Si bien que le général Cork, quand il offrait à dîner à quelque haut officier allié, à une maréchal Alexander, à un général Juin, à un général Anders, ou à quelque homme politique important, à un Churchill, à un Vichinsky, à un Bogomolow, ou à quelque commission de sénateurs américains, venus en avion de Washington pour recueillir les critiques des soldats de la Vème Armée à leurs généraux, et leurs opinions, leurs conseils, sur les plus graves problèmes de la guerre, avait pris l'habitude de faire pêcher le poisson pour sa table dans l'Aquarium de Naples qui, après celui de Monaco, est peut-être le plus important d'Europe.

C'est pourquoi aux dîners du général Cork le poisson était très frais et d'espèce rare. Au dîner qu'il avait offert en l'honneur du général Eisenhower, nous avions mangé le fameux « poulpe géant » offert à l'aquarium de Naples par l'empereur d'Allemagne Guillaume II. Les célèbres poissons japonais appelés « dragons », don de l'empereur japonais Hiro Hito, avaient été sacrifiés sur la table du général Cork en l'honneur d'un groupe de sénateurs américains. L'énorme bouche de ces monstrueux poissons, les branchies jaunes, les nageoires noires et vermeilles semblables à des ailes de chauve-souri, la queue verte et or, le front hérissé de pointes, et crêté comme le casque d'Achille, avaient profondément déprimé l'esprit des sénateurs, déjà préoccupés par les difficultés de la guerre contre le Japon. Mais le général Cork, qui à ses vertus militaires joint les qualités du parfait diplomate, avait relevé le moral de ses hôtes en attaquant le « Johnny got a zero » la célèbre chanson des aviateurs américains du Pacifique, que tous avaient chanté en chœur.

Au début, le général Cork avait fait pêcher le poisson pour sa table dans les viviers du lac de Lucrino, célèbre pour ses féroces et exquises murènes, que Lucullus, qui possédait une villa aux environs de Lucrino, nourrissait avec la chair de ses esclaves. Mais les journaux américains, qui ne perdaient aucune occasion d'adresser d'âpres critiques au Haut Commandement de l'U.S Army, avaient accusé le général Cork de « mental cruelty », pour avoir obligé ses hôtes, « respectables citoyens américains », à manger les murènes de Lucullus. « Le général Cork peut-il nous dire, avaient osé imprimer quelques journaux d'Amérique, avec quelle chair il nourrit ses murènes ? »

Ce fut à la suite de cette accusation que le général Cork avait donné l'ordre de pêcher dorénavant le poisson pour sa table dans l'Aquarium de Naples. Ainsi, un à un, tous les poissons les plus rares et les plus fameux de l'Aquarium avaient été sacrifiés à la « mental cruelty » du général Cork : même l'héroïque espadon offert par Mussolini (qui avait été servi bouilli et garni de pommes de terre), même le magnifique thon, présent de Sa Majesté Victor-Emmanuel III, et les langoustes de l'île de Wight, gracieusement offertes par Sa Majesté Britannique Georges V.

Les précieuses huîtres perlières que S.A le duc d'Aoste, vice-roi d’Éthiopie, avaient envoyées en don à l'Aquarium de Naples (c'étaient des huîtres perlières des côtes d'Arabie, en face de Massaouah), avaient relevé le dîner que le général Cork avait offert à Vichinsky, vice-commissaire soviétique aux Affaires Étrangères, alors représentant de l'URSS à la commission Alliée en Italie. Vichinsky avait été très étonnée de trouver, dans chacune de ses huîtres, une perle rose, couleur de la lune naissante. Et il avait levé les yeux de son assiette, regardant le général Cork avec le même regard que s'il avait eu en face de lui l'émir de Bagdad au cours d'un dîner des Mille et une Nuits.

- Ne crachez pas le noyau, lui avait dit le général Cork, il est délicieux.

- Mais c'est une perle ! S'était écrié Vichinsky.

- Of course, is a pearl ! Don't you like it ?

Vichinsky avait avalé la perle, en murmurant entre ses dents, en russe : « ces capitalistes pourris ! »

Il ne paraissait pas moins étonné que Winston Churchill, lorsque celui-ci, invité par le général Cork, avait trouvé dans son assiette un poisson rond et mince, de la couleur de l'acier, pareil au disque des anciens discoboles.

- Qu'est-ce que c'est ? Demanda Churchill.

- A fish, un poisson, répondit le général Cork.

- A fish ? Dit Churchill en observant cet étrange poisson.

- Comment s'appelle ce poisson ? Demanda le général Cork au majordome.

- C'est une torpille, répondit le majordome.

- What ? Dit Churchill.

- A torpedo, dit le général Cork.

- A torpedo ? Dit Churchill.

- Yes, of course, a torpedo, dit le général Cork, et se tournant vers le majordome lui demande ce qu'était une torpille.

- Un poisson électrique, répondit le majordome.

- Ah ! Yes, of course, un poisson électrique ! Dit le général Cork tourné vers Churchill.

Et tous deux se regardèrent, en souriant, les couverts à poisson en l'air, sans oser toucher la « torpille ».

- Vous êtes sûr que ce n'est pas dangereux ? Dit Churchill après quelques instants de silence.

Le général Cork se tourna vers le majordome :

- Croyez-vous qu'il soit dangereux de le toucher ? Est-il chargé d'électricité ?

- L'électricité, répondit le majordome dans son anglais prononcé à la napolitaine, est dangereuse quand elle est crue : cuite, elle ne fait pas mal.

- Ah ! S'écrièrent Churchill et le général Cork.

Et poussant un soupir de soulagement, ils touchèrent le poisson électrique avec la pointe de leurs fourchettes.

Mais un beau jour il n'y eut plus de poissons dans l'Aquarium : il ne restait que la fameuse Sirène (un spécimen très rare de cette espèce de « sirénoïdes » qui, par leur forme presque humaine, ont été à l'origine de l'antique légende des Sirènes, et quelques merveilleuses branches de corail.

Le général Cork, qui avait la bonne habitude de s'occuper personnellement des plus petits détails, avait demandé au majordome quelle variété de poisson on pourrait trouver dans l'Aquarium pour le dîner en l'honneur de Mrs. Flat.

- Il reste bien peu de chose, avait répondu le majordome, une Sirène et quelques branches de corail.

- La Sirène est-elle un bon poisson ?

- Excellente ! Avait répondu le majordome sans sourciller.

- Et les coraux ? Avait demandé le général Cork, qui était particulièrement méticuleux lorsqu'il s'occupait de ses dîners, sont-ils bons à manger ?

- Non, les coraux, non. Ils sont un peu indigestes.

- Alors, pas de coraux.

- Nous pouvons les mettre comme garniture, avait suggéré le majordome, imperturbable.

- That's fine !

Et le majordome avait inscrit au menu du dîner : « Sirène à la mayonnaise, garnie de coraux. »

Maintenant tous les convives regardaient, muets de surprise et d'horreur, cette pauvre petite fille morte, étendue, les yeux ouverts, au milieu du plateau d'argent, sur un lit de feuilles de laitue verte, entourée d'une guirlande de branches roses de corail.”

Curzio Malaparte - La peau, p-319

Recette : tartare de truite aux pistaches

Hacher le filet de truite, les pistaches, une échalotte et de la ciboulette. Mélanger le tout dans les bols, ajouter 1cs d’huile d’olive par bol, ainsi que sel et poivre.

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heavyarethecrowns · 7 years ago

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People that have married in the Royal Families since 1800

Sweden

Victoria of Baden (Sophie Marie Viktoria; 7 August 1862 – 4 April 1930)

Princess Viktoria was born on 7 August 1862 at the castle in Karlsruhe, Baden. Her parents were Grand Duke Frederick I of Baden, and Princess Louise of Prussia. Viktoria was named after her aunt, Crown Princess Victoria of Prussia

Princess Viktoria married in Karlsruhe on 20 September 1881 Crown Prince Gustaf of Sweden and Norway, the son of King Oscar II of Sweden and Norway and Sofia of Nassau. From then on, she used the name Victoria. The German Emperor and Empress were present at the wedding, and marriage was arranged as a sign that Sweden belonged to the German sphere in Europe. The marriage was popular in Sweden where she was called "The Vasa Princess", because of her descent from the old Vasa dynasty, and she received a very elaborate welcome on the official cortege into Stockholm 1 October 1881.

On 1 February 1882, Victoria and Gustaf visited Oslo, where they were welcomed with a procession of 3,000 torch bearers. She and Gustaf were brought together by their families and their marriage was reported not to have been a happy one. Their marriage produced three children.

In 1890–1891, Victoria and Gustaf travelled to Egypt to repair their relationship, but it did not succeed, allegedly due to Victoria's interest in one of the courtiers, and she repeated the trip to Egypt in 1891–1892. After 1889, the personal relationship between Victoria and Gustaf is considered to have been finished, in part, as estimated by Lars Elgklou, due to the bisexuality of Gustaf.She suffered depression after the birth of her first child in 1882, and after this, she often spent the winters at spas abroad. She would continue to spend the winters outside Sweden from that year until her death. By 1888, her winter trips had made her unpopular, and she was described as very haughty.

In 1889, she had pneumonia, and was formally ordered by the doctors to spend the cold Swedish winters in a southern climate. She had conflicts with her parents-in-law about her expensive stays abroad. She greatly disapproved of the marriage between her brother-in-law prince Oscar and her lady-in-waiting Ebba Munck af Fulkila in 1888.

She is described as strong-willed and artistically talented. She was an accomplished amateur photographer and painter and she also sculpted. On her travels in Egypt and Italy she both photographed and painted extensively, and experimented with various photo-developing techniques, producing high-quality photographic work. She was also an excellent pianist and, for example, could play through the complete Ring of the Nibelung by Wagner without notes. She had had a good music education and in her youth she had turned the notes on court concerts for Franz Liszt. Her favourite composers were Schubert and Beethoven. She was also described as a skillful rider.

Victoria became Queen-consort of Sweden with her father-in-law's death on 8 December 1907. As queen, she was only present in Sweden during the summers, but she still dominated the court. She arranged the marriage between her son Wilhelm and Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna of Russia in 1908.

She was also devoted to various kinds of charity, in Sweden, Germany and Italy. Queen Victoria had substantial political influence over her husband, who was often considered pro-German. In 1908, Victoria made an official visit to Berlin with Gustaf, where she was made an honorary Prussian Colonel: she was described as strict and militant and it was said that she had the heart of a Prussian soldier. She was very strict with discipline, and if any of the member of the palace guard forgot to salute her, he was generally put under arrest.Swedish court life was also dominated by a certain stiffness, upheld by her favoured lady in waiting, Helene Taube. She was deeply conservative in her views and resented the dissolution of the Swedish-Norwegian union (1905), the Great Strike of 1909, the 1911 election victory of the radicals and the Socialists as well as the liberals, and when her son was temporary regent in 1912, she warned him in letters from Italy that he should not be too "intimate" with the elected government.

Queen Victoria lost much popularity among Swedes for her often noted pro-German attitude, particularly politically during World War I when she is said to have influenced her husband to a large extent. During World War I, she gave a personal gift to every Swedish volunteer to the German forces. She kept up a close contact with the German emperor, whom she often visited during the war She founded "Drottningens centralkomittée" ("The Queen's Central Committee") for defence equipment. She deeply resented the social democratic election victories in 1917 and worked to prevent them from taking part in the government. Victoria's political influence was founded upon the power position of her first cousin, German Emperor William II, and in 1918–19, after he was deposed, she lost all political influence in Sweden.

Queen Victoria suffered from very poor health (much due to poor treatment by several doctors in her youth), and often went on trips to make her health better (she suffered from bronchitis and possibly tuberculosis). She was treated with mercury and undue heavy medications during her difficult pregnancies, possibly the cause of her chronic conditions. From 1892 to her death, Axel Munthe was her personal physician and recommended for health reasons that she spend winters on the Italian island of Capri. While initially hesitant, in the autumn of 1901 she travelled to Capri, arriving to an official welcome and a crowd which escorted her from the Marina Grand to the Hotel Paradise. From then on, except during World War I and for the last two years of her life, she spent several months a year on Capri. After some time, she decided to purchase her own residence on Capri, an intimate rustic two-story farmhouse she named Casa Caprile, which she had extensively landscaped, surrounding it with a dense park. In the 1950s, twenty years after her death, the property became a hotel. The Queen went to Munthe's residence, the Villa San Michele, most mornings in order to join Munthe for walks around the island.

Munthe and the Queen also arranged evening concerts at San Michele, at which the Queen played the piano. They also shared a love of animals, with the Queen frequently being seen with a leashed dog, and she was known to support Munthe's (eventually successful) efforts to purchase Mount Barbarossa for use as a bird sanctuary. It was rumoured that Munthe and the Queen were lovers, but this has never been confirmed. Queen Victoria spent a lot of her time abroad because of health reasons, as the Swedish climate was not considered good for her, and during her last years as Queen, she was seldom present in Sweden: she participated in an official visit to Norrland in 1921, a visit to Dalarna in 1924, and to Finland in 1925. The visit to Finland was her last official appearance as Queen; although she did visit Sweden at her husband's birthday 1928, she did not show herself to the public. During those celebrations, however, someone noticed the figure of a woman behind a curtain in the Royal Palace of Stockholm: he waved to her, and she waved back with her handkerchief. After this, she left Sweden for Italy for good: she died two years afterwards.

Toward the end of her life, with her health declining, Munthe recommended she no longer spend time in Capri, and she returned to Sweden for some time, building a Capri-styled villa there. She then moved to Rome. Her final visit to Sweden was on her husband's 70th birthday in June 1928, and Queen Victoria died on 4 April 1930 in her home Villa Svezia in Rome aged 67.

#queen victoria of sweden #1800 #sweden

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villacostadeglidei · 5 months ago

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Best Villas Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, a stunning stretch of coastline in southern Italy, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and luxurious accommodations. Among the many exquisite villas dotting this coastal paradise, Villa Costa Degli Dei in Praiano stands out as a premier destination for those seeking the ultimate Mediterranean escape. This blog explores what makes Villa Costa Degli Dei one of the best villas on the Amalfi Coast, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and authentic Italian charm.

I. Introduction to the Amalfi Coast

II. The Allure of Villa Costa Degli Dei

A. Location and Setting

Villa Costa Degli Dei is situated in Praiano, a serene town nestled between the bustling hubs of Positano and Amalfi. This prime location offers easy access to the region’s major attractions while providing a tranquil retreat away from the crowds. The villa’s elevated position affords stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, with the island of Capri visible on the horizon. The villa’s proximity to the sea and its secluded setting create a perfect ambiance for relaxation and rejuvenation.

B. Architectural and Interior Design

The architecture of Villa Costa Degli Dei reflects the traditional Mediterranean style, characterized by whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, and arched windows. The villa seamlessly blends traditional elements with modern luxury, creating a comfortable and elegant living space. Inside, the villa is decorated with a mix of classic and contemporary furnishings, providing a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. The spacious living areas, high ceilings, and large windows enhance the sense of openness and light.

III. Luxurious Amenities and Accommodations

A. Bedrooms and Suites

Villa Costa Degli Dei offers a variety of accommodation options, including luxurious bedrooms and suites. Each room is elegantly decorated, featuring comfortable beds, high-quality linens, and beautiful furnishings. Many rooms offer stunning sea views, allowing guests to wake up to the sight of the sun rising over the Mediterranean. En-suite bathrooms are equipped with modern amenities, including rain showers and marble fixtures, providing a spa-like experience.

B. Living and Dining Areas

The villa’s living areas are designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The spacious living room features comfortable seating, a fireplace, and a large flat-screen TV, making it an ideal space for gatherings. The dining area, with its elegant table and chairs, is perfect for enjoying meals with family and friends. The fully equipped kitchen boasts modern appliances, allowing guests to prepare their own meals if they wish. Alternatively, a private chef can be arranged to create exquisite Italian dishes using fresh, local ingredients.

C. Outdoor Spaces

D. Additional Services

Villa Costa Degli Dei offers a range of additional services to enhance guests’ stay. A concierge is available to assist with planning activities, excursions, and transportation. Daily housekeeping ensures that the villa remains clean and comfortable throughout the stay. For those seeking relaxation, in-villa spa services, including massages and beauty treatments, can be arranged. Additionally, guests can take advantage of private transportation services, including transfers to and from the airport.

IV. Exploring the Amalfi Coast

A. Nearby Attractions

Praiano is ideally located for exploring the Amalfi Coast’s many attractions. The nearby towns of Positano and Amalfi are easily accessible and offer a wealth of sights and experiences. In Positano, visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets, visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and relax on the beautiful Spiaggia Grande beach. Amalfi, with its historic cathedral and charming piazza, is another must-visit destination. The town of Ravello, known for its stunning gardens and music festival, is also within easy reach.

B. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its natural beauty, and Villa Costa Degli Dei is perfectly positioned to take advantage of this. Guests can explore the stunning coastline by boat, with excursions available to the island of Capri and the Blue Grotto. Hiking enthusiasts can tackle the Path of the Gods, a scenic trail offering breathtaking views of the coast. For those who enjoy water sports, activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking are available.

C. Culinary Delights

The Amalfi Coast is a culinary paradise, known for its delicious cuisine and fresh, local ingredients. Guests at Villa Costa Degli Dei can explore the region’s many restaurants and trattorias, enjoying dishes such as fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and local specialties like limoncello. Wine lovers will appreciate the region’s excellent wines, including those produced from local grape varieties. Cooking classes are also available, offering guests the opportunity to learn how to prepare traditional Italian dishes.

V. Tips for Booking and Staying at Villa Costa Degli Dei

A. Best Time to Visit

B. Booking Tips

C. Travel Preparation

D. Local Etiquette and Practical Tips

VI. Testimonials and Guest Experiences

A. Guest Reviews

B. Memorable Moments

C. Visual Gallery

VII. Conclusion

Villa Costa Degli Dei is truly one of the best villas on the Amalfi Coast, offering a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and authentic Italian charm. Its prime location, stunning views, and luxurious amenities make it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a memorable Mediterranean escape. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, explore the local culture, or enjoy the region’s culinary delights, Villa Costa Degli Dei provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable vacation. Book your stay today and experience the magic of the Amalfi Coast for yourself.

#Best Villas Amalfi Coast

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naplesgrandtour · 5 years ago

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📍CAPRI 🇬🇧Thanks to its scenic beauties, the mild climate and the distance from the big cities became also the perfect "island of freedom”. 💌In the twentieth century homosexuality was punishable as a crime, and the scions of rich European families chose capri as their refuge, sure that they would find both luxury up to their social rank and a discreet and evolved society, without prejudices. 🏰The building that encompasses the debauchery and freedom of those times is surely Villa Lysis: one of its illustrious owners was in fact Count Fersen. 📜During the last century, Capri also played a decisive role during World War II: villa Vismara at Punta Tragara, projected in 20s by the great architect Le Corbusier, was chosen as the meeting point between the Prime Minister Winston Churchill and the General Eisenhower: that was the headquarter of the General American Command. • 🇮🇹Grazie alla sua indiscutibile bellezza, al clima mite e alla distanza dalle grandi città, Capri divenne la perfetta "isola della libertà": nel ventesimo secolo, l'omosessualità era purtroppo considerato un reato. 💌I giovani rampolli delle grandi famiglie europee, quindi, spesso scelsero Capri come proprio rifugio, sicuri di ritrovare sia il lusso che si addiceva al loro rango, che una società discreta ed evoluta, priva di pregiudizi. 🏰L'edificio che racchiude la dissolutezza e la libertà di quei tempi è sicuramente Villa Lysis: uno dei suoi illustri proprietari fu infatti il conte Fersen. 📜Durante il secolo scorso, Capri ebbe anche un ruolo determinante durante la Seconda Guerra Mondiale: Villa Vismara, a Punta Tragara - progettata negli anni Venti da Le Corbusier - fu scelta come luogo d'incontro tra il Primo Ministro Winston Churchill e il Generale Eisenhower: divenne così la sede del Comando Generale Americano. (presso Capri) https://www.instagram.com/p/CA2_3nFKRxx/?igshid=19kmw4odb5yq3

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anarchistbanjo · 7 years ago

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White Dog Roses

Behind the monastery lies a garden, That belongs to the old, noble family Of Capri, to Nikola Vuoto. And you must go through his garden, If you want to get to the Saracen tower, The Marelatto, that clings to the side of a cliff. But if you are careful, stranger, you can climb up On a steep goat path that leads down to the sea: And throw heavy stones at Vuoto. Be careful as well in the rock tower, If you step on the wrong flagstone, You will plummet down into the blue waves. —Until you are there take off your shoes, stranger, Lay your stockings aside and take your knife, Scratch your soles and heals, So that the blood lightly oozes: The blood will cling to your feet And to the smooth stones of the Castiglione. You only need to climb a little higher And you will see growing on the steep cliff walls A bush of white dog roses. Stick to it, stranger, look only at the roses, Don’t cast one look down below, Where the blue sea temptingly cavorts, Where many blonde German youth have already Dashed out their brains on the salty rocks, Mixing red blood with deep blue. —Oh, I lift my clear headed gaze, To greet the sun in the sea, rejoicing, Rejoicing, as I pluck my white roses! II If you climb up a few steps from the piazza, You can see Santa Teresa, The palace of Bourbon times. Just ask there for the Signore, And they will lead you into a cool hall, Everyone knows the invalid Herrn of the Villa. In earlier days he rode on fast horses, A leader of one of the lusty dragoons That rushed charging through the fields of France. In earlier times he fought well with a sharp saber, Which he waved in front of his squadron Of Italians, giving the order to attack— But today he goes on his way sedately, In the most beautiful place on this beautiful earth, Living for his art and for his dreams. Stranger, if you see his pale cheeks, Greet him from a German poet, Whom he once led through his hall, Who loved the fine features of his head, His long narrow hands, And the deep silence of his villa. III Slowly I went back to Santa Teresa, I carried my white dog roses Into the coolest of its cool halls. I carried water in a polished lava vase, In the deep silence of this villa And sat alone with my white roses. Strange!—my dog roses laughed, In the wondrous deep silence They chuckled in exalted innocence! But this laugher sounded like crying, —crying without tears, foolish crying, Like the sounds of silly children’s songs, Silly songs, like the “Five Barrisons” Had once sung, at the winter garden In Berlin in front of witty Berliners. The same way Salome danced in the Pomare: —for the head of John the Baptist!— This exalted innocence was cruel! She was cruel, as if even her nerves Felt the sweet tickle of desire, Of wanton thirst, this woman of antiquity, Even though no surge of blood Raced through her thin arms And no light flickered in her eyes. Her cruelty was white as marble, White, like her silky baby soft clothing, White, like my dog roses are! And she shook her alluring little head, Clasped her hands together, leaped, curtsied, And her narrow, pale lips smiled: “Daddy wouldn’t buy me a Bow, Wow, Wow, Daddy wouldn’t buy me a Bow, Wow, Wow. So I’ve got a little cat And I’m very fond of that, But I’d rather have a Bow, Wow, Wow!” —Yes, she sang and her lips smiled, But her laughter sounded like crying, Like the crying of my dog roses. Ask, why are you crying?—then the roses laugh. Through the wondrous deep silence They chuckle in exalted innocence. Laughter without desire and crying without Tears.—their song echoes strangely, Their silly foolish children’s song, Through the cool halls, these thin, Pale dog roses strangely sway, In white exalted innocence. —tell me, why are they laughing?

-Hanns Heinz Ewers translated by Joe Bandel

#poetry #life #blog #self improvement #thoughts

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noromannet-blog · 5 years ago

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What to see in Italy: 7 essential places for your trip

Beautiful Italy, Who has not dreamed of ever traveling to this beautiful country? Discover seven places to see in Italy if it is the first time you travel. Italy is mostly culture, tradition, but for many, the golden land. After knowing many places, you are sure to know what to do in Italy, the country of pasta, pizza and many other wonderful things.

1. Rome

What to see in Italy: Rome, Italy To talk about Rome is to talk about one of the most visited romantic cities in the world. It is not in vain that Rome is love in reverse and that is what is breathed in every corner of the capital of Italy. You cannot talk about the best destinations in Italy without placing Rome in the first place. Walking around the city and finding wonders like the Fontana Di Trevi or the Pantheon is a luxury that is closer than you might think. Contrary to what you may believe, if you do, a trip to Rome is not that expensive and you can enjoy a few days in the city in an economical way. Walking in Rome is to impregnate you with an ancestral culture. That along with its romanticism is what you breathe at street level. A perfect place for your vacation in Italy! What to see in Rome Rome Coliseum Fontana di Trevi Pantheon of Rome Basilica of Saint Peter Navona Square

2. Venice

What to see in Italy: Venice, Italy There are few cities that compare with Venice. Who has not heard stories of its beautiful canals or magical sunsets? Taking a gondola ride through the canals of Venice is a must if you are going to make a route through Italy. With a couple of days, you can enjoy the most classic in the city. That said, stroll through its canals, contemplate its extraordinary beauty, listen to the beautiful melodies of the gondoliers, who is not dreaming of getting lost in its streets? Venice is almost mandatory if you are going to make a trip to Italy, book a few days to enjoy one of the best cities in Italy built on water. What to see in Venice St. Mark's Square St Mark's Basilica Rialto bridge Bridge of Sighs Doge's Palace in Venice

3. Pisa

What to see in Italy: Pisa, Italy Another place to see in Italy is the city of Pisa. Who does not know or at least have seen photos of the famous leaning tower of Pisa? The whole Tuscany leaves us to make a beautiful and long route through Italy. But let's focus on Pisa which is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Did you know that the tower of Pisa was not intended to be tilted? A curious fact if we think that right now the city is known for this curious and emblematic monument. It is one of those destinations in Italy to walk without stopping and discover each of its corners. What to see in Pisa tower of Pisa Piazza Dei Miracoli Pisa Cathedral Pisa Baptistery Piazza Dei Cavalieri

4. Florence

What to see in Italy: Florence, Italy If we continue traveling through Tuscany, another place to visit in Italy is Florence, a beautiful city that perfectly frames Italian traditions. Walking around Florence is discovering wonders like its beautiful cathedral, the focus of countless promotional photographs of the city. In addition, there is much to do in Florence as it has a great artistic and cultural offer. The Ufizzi Gallery keeps one of the most famous paintings of the Italian Renaissance: The Birth of Venus. Undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy for your trip. What to see in Florence Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Uffizi Degli gallery Ponte Vecchio Piazzale Michelangelo Plaza de la Señoría

5. Amalfi

What to see in Italy: Amalfi, Italy The Amalfi coast is that for which we suffer real envy every summer when we look at the photos of travelers on social networks. In recent years it has become very famous on Instagram, it has become the recreational circle of travelers and there is no doubt that it is the best in Italy. Its steep cliffs leave us breathless, its natural charm, its waters and its locals make this municipality one of the best destinations in Italy for your next vacation. Do not forget to imbibe your culture in the lively port and visit the emblematic cathedral of San Andrés. What to see in Amalfi Amalfi Coast Villa Rufo Cathedral of Saint Andrew the Apostle Grotta Dello Smeraldo Villa Romana, Minori

6. Milan

What to see in Italy: Milan, Italy (Milano) Known as the city of fashion, Milan is the focus for famous magazine editors, stylists, and influencers. But not everything is fashionable in Milan, surely you know it for its impressive cathedral, one of the most important attractions to see in Italy. For the pleasure of many, the Duomo of Milan is one of the most beautiful in the world. Its financial center is the most important in Italy, and it has great cultural and artistic appeal. In the convent of Santa Maria Delle Grazie, we can enjoy one of the most famous paintings of the mythical Da Vinci: The Last Supper. How not to reserve a place for Milan on our trip to Italy! What to see in Milan Duomo Cathedral of Milan Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery Sforza Castle Duomo Square Sempione Park

7. Island of Capri

What to see in Italy: Capri, Italy Moving away from the bustle of the cities of Italy, there is also space to enjoy the island life on the Island of Capri. One of the best places in Italy if you love rugged landscapes and exclusivity when traveling. In Capri, we can find luxury hotels that will delight the most demanding travelers. We can also enjoy its electric blue waters, the color that they acquire thanks to the brightness of the sun over the sea. Here you can see the best landscapes of Italy in a small corner of the country. It is clear that there is much to see in Italy, a country that has something for everyone. Beautiful beaches, emblematic cities, relaxing villages and of course, the best pizza! What to see in Capri Grotta Azzurra Villa San Michele Anacapri Marina Grande Monte Solaro If you would like to collaborate by adding more places to see in Italy, add yours to the comments of the article. Images via Shutterstock Read the full article

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citizen0ne · 8 years ago

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Have Humans Been Abducted by Extraterrestrials? A prestigious Harvard psychiatrist, John Edward Mack, thought so. His sudden death leaves behind many mysteries.

BY RALPH BLUMENTHAL MAY 10, 2013 12:00 AM

If you’re abducted by alien beings, are you physically absent?

Anne Ramsey Cuvelier’s Victorian mansion in Newport, Rhode Island, where, once a year, alien experiencers gather and exchange stories. Inset, John Edward Mack at Harvard University, where he earned his medical degree in 1955., Courtesy of Anne Ramsey Cuvelier (house), courtesy of JPL-Caltech/UCLA/NASA (cosmos), courtesy of the family of John E. Mack (Mack).

This happens to be an important issue for the media-shy people gathered one afternoon last July on the porch of Anne Ramsey Cuvelier’s blue Victorian inn on Narragansett Bay, in Rhode Island, once called “the most elegantly finished house ever built in Newport.” Co-designed in 1869 by a cousin of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s, it has been in Cuvelier’s family since 1895, when her great-grandfather bought it as a summer getaway from his winter home blocks away, just as the Gilded Age cottages of the Vanderbilts and Astors began springing up across the island, redefining palatial extravagance. Still imposing with its butternut woodwork, ebony trimmings, and four-story paneled atrium frescoed in the Pompeian style, the harborside mansion turned B&B seemed a fittingly baroque setting for the group of reluctant guests Cuvelier describes as “not a club anyone wants to belong to.”

She had gathered them to compare experiences as, well, “experiencers,” a term they prefer to “abductees,” and to socialize free of stigma among peers. Cuvelier, an elegant and garrulous woman in her 70s, isn’t one of them. But she remembers as a teen in the 1940s hearing her father, Rear Admiral Donald James Ramsey, a World War II hero, muttering about strange flying craft that hovered and streaked off at unimaginable speed, and she’s been an avid ufologist ever since. “I want to get information out so these people don’t have to suffer,” she says. “Nobody believes you. You go through these frightening experiences, and then you go through the ridicule.”

So, for a week each summer for almost two decades, she’s been turning away paying guests at her family’s Sanford-Covell Villa Marina, on the cobblestoned waterfront in Newport, to host these intimate gatherings of seemingly ordinary folk with extraordinary stories, along with the occasional sympathetic medical professional and scientist and other brave or foolhardy souls not afraid to be labeled nuts for indulging a fascination with the mystery. I had been invited as a journalist with a special interest who has been talking to some of them for several years.

Betty and Barney Hill pose with John G. Fuller’s book The Interrupted Journey, which chronicles the 1961 abduction that the two say they experienced. © Splash News/Corbis.

Perched on a wicker settee was Linda Cortile, a mythic figure in the canons of abduction literature, whom I’d come to know by her real name, Linda Napolitano. A stylish young grandmother in a green T-shirt, black shorts, and a charcoal baseball cap, she had agreed to meet me months before at Manhattan’s South Street Seaport to point at her 12th-floor window overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge, where, she says, one night in 1989 three small beings levitated her “like an angel” into a hovering craft in view of horrified witnesses, including, it was said, a mysterious world figure who might have been abducted with her. “If I was hallucinating,” she told me, “then the witnesses saw my hallucination. That sounds crazier than the whole abduction phenomenon.”

A plaque in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, commemorating the Hills’ experience as “the first widely-reported UFO abduction report in the United States.”, © Splash News/Corbis.

The short-haired Florida woman in white capris and a fuchsia flowered blouse was, like Cuvelier, not herself an abductee but the niece of two and the co-author of a book on the first widely publicized and most famous abduction case of all. Kathleen Marden, the director of abduction research for the Mutual UFO Network, or MUFON, one of the oldest and largest U.F.O.-investigating groups, was 13 in 1961, when her aunt and uncle Betty and Barney Hill returned from a trip through the White Mountains of New Hampshire with the stupefying tale of having been chased by a giant flying disc that hovered over the treetops. They said they had stopped for a look with binoculars, spotted humanoid figures in the craft and, overcome with terror, sped away with their car suddenly enveloped in buzzing vibrations. They reached home inexplicably hours late and afterward recovered memories of having been taken into the ship and subjected to frightening medical probes. Their car showed some peculiar markings, and Betty’s dress had been ripped, the zipper torn. She remembered that the aliens had fumbled with her zipper before disrobing her for a pregnancy test with a needle in her navel. I was surprised to hear from Marden (but confirmed it) that the garment is preserved at the University of New Hampshire, in Durham.

Also present was Barbara Lamb, a tanned and gold-coiffed psychotherapist and family counselor from Claremont, California, who studies crop circles, the enigmatic patterns left in fields, often in England, and practices regression therapy, treating personality disorders by taking people back to previous lives. She told me what she remembered happened to her about seven years earlier: “I was walking through my home and there was standing this reptilian being. It was three in the afternoon. I was alert and awake. I was startled somebody was there.” Ordinarily, Lamb said, she is repulsed by snakes and lizards, “but he was radiating such a nice feeling. I went right over and had my hand out. He was taller than I, this close to me”—she held her hands a foot apart—“with yellow reptile eyes. Then he was suddenly gone.” She said she had recalled more of the encounter when a colleague put her through hypnotic regression. “He said telepathically, ‘Ha, Barbara, good, good. Now you know that we are actually real. We do exist and have contacts with certain people.’”

Chatting with this group were two astrophysicists from a leading institution and the director of the Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital Southeast. I was intrigued by these eminent outsiders, who may have been risking their careers.

But I was interested most of all in the dead man who remained an icon to many on the porch. John Edward Mack, a Pulitzer Prize–winning biographer and Harvard Medical School psychiatrist, spent years trying to fathom their stories and reached an astonishing conclusion: they were telling the truth. That is, they were not insane or deluded; in some unknown space/time dimension, something real had actually happened to them—not that Mack could explain just what or how. But weeks after attending the 2004 Newport gathering, days before his 75th birthday, he looked the wrong way down a London street and stepped in front of a drunk driver.

Aside from those of his circle and university colleagues, Mack is scarcely known today. But 20 years ago, when he burst onto the scene as the Harvard professor who believed in alien abduction, he was probably the most famous, or infamous, academic in America, “the most important scientist ever to dare to admit the truth about the abduction phenomenon,” in the words of Whitley Strieber, whose best-selling memoir, Communion, introduced millions of Americans to alien encounters.

Tall, impulsive, and magnetic to women and men, Mack was everywhere, or so it seemed—on OprahandNova; on the best-seller lists; in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and Time; at his Laurance S. Rockefeller–supported Program for Extraordinary Experience Research; in scholarly journals, documentaries, poems, theater pieces, and Roz Chast cartoons. And then suddenly he was under investigation at Harvard, the target of a grueling inquisition. “I didn’t think people would believe me,” Mack had confided to his longtime assistant, Leslie Hansen, who was in Newport last July. “But I didn’t think they’d get so mad.” In the end he achieved a measure of vindication, but his freakish demise denied him a final reckoning in an unpublished manuscript he saw as his cri de coeur against scientific materialism and “ontological fascism.”

He left behind another unpublished manuscript, with another mystery he was seeking to unravel, a secret as dark as death itself. And now his interrupted journey may be heading to the big screen. After a four-year negotiation, the film and television rights to Mack’s story were granted by the Mack family to MakeMagic Productions, which has partnered with Robert Redford’s Wildwood Enterprises, and a major feature film is currently in development. But two decades after Mack took alien abduction from the pages of the National Enquirer to the hallowed halls of Harvard, the question remains: why would a pillar of the psychiatric establishment at America’s oldest university court professional suicide to champion the most ridiculed and tormented outcasts of society?

On Cuvelier’s porch, a Vermont shopkeeper who wanted to be known as “Nona”—the way Mack identified her in Passport to the Cosmos, his 1999 follow-up to Abduction—remembered filling 300 pages with “abduction recollections,” which Mack struggled to accept as real. Had she actually traveled on shafts of crystalline light? “John, I know when I’m physically gone,” she remembered replying. “I know when I’m going through a wall.” Mack had had one nagging disappointment, Nona recalled. He had never undergone an abduction, or even spied a U.F.O. Why can’t I see one?, he wondered. Nona would twit him. “Probably because you’re not patient enough, John.”

‘I was raised as the strictest of materialists,” Mack told the writer C. D. B. Bryan. “I believed we were kind of alone in this meaningless universe, on this sometimes verdant rock with these animals and plants around, and we were here to make the best of it, and when we’re dead, we’re dead.” A great-grandfather of his had pioneered the use of anesthetics in eye surgery, and a great-uncle had been one of the first Jewish professors at Harvard Medical School. His father, Edward, was a noted literary biographer and scholar at the City College of New York who had remarried a widow with a young daughter after his wife died of peritonitis eight months after John was born. John’s socially prominent stepmother, Ruth Prince, was an eminent feminist economist and New Dealer whose first husband, a great-grandson of the founder of Gimbels department store, had jumped or fallen from the 16th floor of the Yale Club as the Great Depression deepened.

John Edward Mack with his then wife, Sally, and their first child, Daniel, in Japan, 1960. Courtesy of the family of John E. Mack.

Mack graduated cum laude from Harvard Medical School and, while only a resident, founded one of the nation’s first outpatient hospitals. He took his social-worker bride, Sally, to an Air Force posting in Japan and, once home, introduced psychiatric services to incarcerated youths and impoverished nursery schoolers. He started the first psychiatric department at Cambridge hospital, winning a prize for a study of childhood nightmares, a field he would explore further in his first book, Nightmares and Human Conflict. His second book, a groundbreaking psychological study of Lawrence of Arabia, A Prince of Our Disorder: The Life of T. E. Lawrence, won the Pulitzer Prize for biography in 1977. He traveled in the Middle East, lecturing on the Arab-Israeli conflict and going on “bomb runs,” traveling from city to city warning what would happen if a one-mega-ton bomb exploded overhead, and getting arrested with his family at nuclear-test sites. He cornered Dr. Edward Teller, the father of the H-bomb then pressing President Reagan for a Star Wars nuclear-weapons shield in space. Teller denounced peacenik physicians and told Mack: “If you are not in the pay of the Kremlin, you’re even more of a fool.” After the cold war ended, Mack studied consciousness expansion with Stanislav Grof, a Czech-born psychoanalyst who had experimented with L.S.D. Grof and his wife, Christina, had developed a breathing discipline called Holotropic Breathwork to induce an expanded state of consciousness. In one breathwork session with Russians at California’s Esalen Institute, Mack recounted that he became, “a Russian-father in the 16th century whose four-year-old son was being decapitated by Mongol hordes.’’ He owed a lot to the Grofs, Mack later said. “They put a hole in my psyche, and the U.F.O.’s flew in.”

Mack, at left, performs an autopsy as a student at Harvard Medical School, 1951. Courtesy of the family of John E. Mack.

They flew in with a man named Budd Hopkins.

It was January 10, 1990, Mack recalled, “one of those dates you remember that mark a time when everything in your life changes.” A woman he had met at the Grofs’ introduced him to Hopkins, a nationally known New York Abstract Expressionist and intimate of Willem DeKooning, Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, Franz Kline, and Robert Motherwell, whose works hung with his in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim, and the Whitney. According to Hopkins, he had spotted a U.F.O. on Cape Cod in 1964, and he went on to investigate the case of a badly shaken neighbor who had reported seeing a spaceship with nine or ten small beings land in a park near Fort Lee, New Jersey. Hopkins wrote a story about it for The Village Voice that was picked up by Cosmopolitan. He was soon being thronged by abductees, whom he examined under hypnosis, and he would win renown as the father of the alien-abduction movement, starting with his book Missing Time, in 1981, and its 1987 sequel, Intruders: The Incredible Visitations at Copley Woods.

Hopkins was then beginning his investigation of the so-called Brooklyn Bridge U.F.O. abduction of the woman he called Linda Cortile, which would become his third book, Witnessed, in 1996. It would involve two security guards for an international figure Hopkins never named but believed to be U.N. secretary-general Javier Pérez de Cuéllar, who, Hopkins would conclude, appeared to have been abducted with her. (I had a local reporter in Lima ask the 92-year-old retired Peruvian diplomat directly about the matter in April 2012. He responded enigmatically, saying, “I’m not interested in those types of curiosities.” Asked if he recalled being questioned by Hopkins, Pérez de Cuéllar, who was in the process of updating his 1997 memoirs, said, “I don’t remember, but it is possible. I can’t assure it nor deny it. My memory at this age fails me.”)

Hopkins gave Mack a box of letters from people reacting to aliens. “I think most of these people are perfectly sane, with real experiences,” Hopkins recalled telling Mack when I visited him in his art-filled Chelsea town house shortly before his death of cancer at 80, in August 2011. But, he added, Mack could decide for himself. He was the doctor.

“Nothing in my nearly 40 years of familiarity with psychiatry prepared me,” Mack later wrote in his 1994 best-seller, Abduction: Human Encounters with Aliens. He had always assumed that anyone claiming to have been abducted by aliens was crazy, along with those who took them seriously. But here were people—students, homemakers, secretaries, writers, businesspeople, computer technicians, musicians, psychologists, a prison guard, an acupuncturist, a social worker, a gas-station attendant—reporting experiences that Mack could not begin to fathom, things, he reflected, that by all notions of reality “simply could not be.”

As he later said, “These individuals reported being taken against their wills sometimes through the walls of their houses, and subjected to elaborate intrusive procedures which appeared to have a reproductive purpose. In a few cases they were actually observed by independent witnesses to be physically absent during the time of the abduction. These people suffered from no obvious psychiatric disorder, except the effects of traumatic experience, and were reporting with powerful emotion what to them were utterly real experiences. Furthermore these experiences were sometimes associated with UFO sightings by friends, family members, or others in the community, including media reporters and journalists, and frequently left physical traces on the individuals’ bodies, such as cuts and small ulcers that would tend to heal rapidly and followed no apparent psychodynamically identifiable pattern as do, for example, religious stigmata. In short, I was dealing with a phenomenon that I felt could not be explained psychiatrically, yet was simply not possible within the framework of the Western scientific worldview.”

With the new millennium, Mack began showing up at Newport, Leslie Hansen remembered. She had been hired to help Mack transcribe recordings of his sessions, and she came to believe in the process that she had buried her own troubling childhood memories of aliens at her bedside. Mack’s household was in turmoil. Sally was unhappy with Mack’s treatment sessions in the house, especially the screams. Mack was also deeply in love with his research associate, Dominique Callimanopulos, the glamorous daughter of the Greek shipping tycoon who owned Hellenic Lines. “John had a lot going on, but he was kind of like a child,” Hansen recalled. “He kind of regarded every person as a fresh slate.” And, she added, “he was very attractive.” Hansen had heard about Cuvelier’s gatherings, and she invited him to attend. Mack was dubious. “What’s this going to cost me?,” he asked. Hansen laughed. “John,” she said, “you’re a guest.”

Two years after meeting Hopkins, Mack was working with dozens of experiencers, and one day he told incredulous fellow psychiatrists at Cambridge Hospital about alien abduction. In 1992 he and David E. Pritchard, a pioneering physicist in atom optics at M.I.T., got that institution to open its doors to a revolutionary alien-abduction conference. Mack presented his findings, as did Hopkins and David M. Jacobs, an associate professor of history at Temple University who was teaching the nation’s only fully accredited college course on U.F.O.’s, and who had just published a provocative book detailing alien encounters, called Secret Life. C. D. B. Bryan, the author of the best-seller Friendly Fire, was among a few select writers invited, for another book, Close Encounters of the Fourth Kind, which Knopf would publish in 1995.

“If what these abductees are saying is happening to them isn’t happening,” Mack demanded, “what is?”

Conferees argued over the validity of a poll done by the Roper Organization for the hotel and aerospace mogul and U.F.O. advocate Robert T. Bigelow that sought for the first time to quantify alien abduction in America. Because few were likely to admit to being an abductee, the pollsters asked the 5,947 respondents if they had ever experienced five key abduction-type symptoms: waking up paralyzed with the sense of a strange presence or person in the room, missing time, feeling a sensation of flying, seeing balls of light in the room, and finding puzzling scars. (A trick question asked if “Trondant” held any secret meaning for them. Anyone who answered yes to the nonsense word was eliminated as unreliable.) Two percent of the respondents, or 119 people, acknowledged at least four of the five experiences, which Roper said translated to 3.7 million adult Americans. At a minimum, Hopkins reported, the results suggested that 560,000 adult Americans might be abductees.

Mack, a year before his death, with Budd Hopkins, the American artist and abduction researcher, at the International U.F.O. Congress Awards in 2003. © Stuart Conway.

The beings didn’t have to come from outer space, Mack theorized, maybe just a parallel universe. But by the time he wrote Abduction, he said his cases had “amply corroborated” the work of Hopkins and Jacobs, “namely that the abduction phenomenon is in some central way involved in a breeding program that results in the creation of alien/human hybrid offspring.” He concluded furthermore that the aliens were carrying warnings about dangers to the planet; almost all of his abductees emerged with “a commitment to changing their relationship to the earth.”

Some respected colleagues, asked to comment on his manuscript, were dismayed. Anyone could espouse alien abduction, but Mack was a renowned Harvard professor. “Can I believe any of this?,” wrote the editor of a psychiatry journal who turned down publication even though all of the peer reviewers urged it. An eminent Harvard ethicist and philosopher responded: “Clearly you cannot easily go ahead with publication so long as you do not have more incontrovertible evidence.” Even Hopkins called Mack “gullible.”

Indeed, Mack soon stepped into a minefield, adding to his circle of abductees a 37-year-old Boston writer who intrigued him with a bizarre tale of being taken into a spaceship with Nikita Khrushchev and President John F. Kennedy during the Cuban missile crisis. Then, saying she was a double agent out to expose Mack’s U.F.O. cult, the woman, Donna Bassett, supplied tapes of her sessions to Time, which ambushed Mack with the hoax, calling him “The Man from Outer Space.” Mack countered that Bassett had a troubled history at his office, but the betrayal stung. The Boston Globe followed up with a gleeful headline: ALIENS LAND AT HARVARD!

Undaunted, Mack appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show with five of his lucid, articulate, and normal-acting abductees. “He believes them when they say they have been on the aliens’ spaceships,” declared Oprah. “And Dr. Mack believes them, he says, when they say that they have had children with aliens.” Mack put it differently. “Every other culture in history except this one, in the history of the human race, has believed there were other entities, other intelligences in the universe,” he said. “Why are we so goofy about this? Why do we treat people like they’re crazy, humiliate them, if they’re experiencing some other intelligence?”

Harvard had had enough. In June 1994 it convened a confidential inquest under a former editor of The New England Journal of Medicine, Professor Emeritus Arnold Relman. “If these stories are believed as literal factual accounts,” Relman wrote Mack, “they would contradict virtually all of the basic laws of physics, chemistry and biology on which modern science depends.” Some went further, accusing Mack of ushering in a new dark age of superstition and magic.

Mack recruited a potent legal team: Daniel P. Sheehan, of the Christic Institute, who had helped to uncover the Iran-Contra drugs-for-arms deals of the Reagan administration and had represented Karen Silkwood’s family in their successful lawsuit against the Kerr-McGee nuclear power plant, and Roderick “Eric” MacLeish, former general counsel of the Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts, who was to achieve fame for exposing sexual abuse by Catholic priests in Boston.

Experiencers who had appeared on Oprah with Mack testified for him. Peter Faust, an acupuncturist in his 30s, told of having been recognized on a spaceship by another abductee and of possibly having been an alien himself in a previous lifetime.

And then, as if scripted for dramatic timing, BBC journalist Tim Leach in Zimbabwe called Mack’s office about a flurry of U.F.O. sightings. Mack and his research partner Callimanopulos flew off to investigate a report that on September 14, 1994, a large, saucer-shaped spacecraft and several smaller craft had landed or hovered near a schoolyard in Ruwa, 40 miles northeast of Harare.

The children told Mack and Callimanopulos on tape that the beings had large heads, two holes for nostrils, a slit for a mouth or no mouth at all, and long black hair, and were dressed in dark, single-piece suits. “I think it’s about something that’s going to happen,” said one little girl. “What I thought was maybe the world’s going to end. They were telling us the world’s going to end.”

“How did that get communicated to you?,” Mack asked.

“I don’t even know. It just popped up in my head. He never said anything. He talked just with his eyes. It was just the face and the eyes. They looked horrible.”

By mid-December 1994, with Mack back in Cambridge, the Harvard committee accused him of failing to do systematic evaluations to rule out psychiatric disorders, putting “persistent pressure” on his experiencers to convince them they had actually been abducted by aliens, and preventing them from obtaining the help they really needed. Mack countered with a fervent rebuttal.

As the inquiry hit the press, Harvard Law School professor Alan Dershowitz wrote an op-ed picked up by The Washington Post and The Harvard Crimson: “Will the next professor who is thinking about an unconventional research project be deterred by the prospect of having to hire a lawyer to defend his ideas?”

When the final report came out, Mack was dumbfounded. In a short statement, Harvard Medical School cautioned him “not, in any way, to violate the high standards for the conduct of clinical practice and clinical investigation that have been the hallmarks of this Faculty.” But Harvard “reaffirmed Dr. Mack’s academic freedom to study what he wishes and to state his opinions without impediment. Dr. Mack remains a member in good standing of the Harvard Faculty of Medicine.”

Mack had prevailed, but he realized in retrospect that he had made a fateful error. As he wrote nearly a decade later in a manuscript he was seeking to publish as his masterwork, “When Worldviews Collide”: “I can see now that I had to a large extent created my problem with the literalness that I had treated the encounter phenomenon in the 1994 book. It is possible that in some cases people are taken bodily into spacecraft. However, the question is more subtle and complex.”

Whether space aliens were visiting, what planet they came from, and whether they were friendly to humans seemed increasingly less important than what such spiritual encounters revealed about the cosmos, Mack wrote. The Western materialist worldview was closed to such mysteries. But even without physical proof of the encounters, scientific investigation could proceed through study of the abductees themselves. What was needed, Mack argued, was a new “Science of Human Experience” stressing “the value of the authentic Witness.”

In any case, the aliens’ abduction phase may have ended, Mack and his associates theorized. Had whatever hybrid-breeding program existed been accomplished? What was the next step? The emergence of aliens among us? How would humanity react?

On Cuvelier’s porch in Newport, a staff astronomer at a renowned astrophysics center, in a short-sleeved sport shirt and cargo shorts, explained what he was doing at a gathering of abductees. “I don’t mix the two,” he said. “As a scientist, I would say we don’t have enough data.” So far, he said, “it’s hearsay: somebody says they saw a light, somebody is telling a story what they saw.” But that didn’t mean, the astronomer added, that the stories weren’t interesting. He was joined soon by a towering, bullet-headed friend of Mack’s who had arrived straight from McLean Hospital Southeast, a psychiatric facility affiliated with Harvard Medical School, where he is the medical director. Jeffrey D. Rediger, who also holds a master-of-divinity degree, is no stranger to anomalous experiences. A decade ago in Brazil, where he had gone to study the claims of a mystical healer called John of God, Rediger said, he had witnessed surgeries without instruments and experienced, on his own chest, a sudden episode of spontaneous bleeding from an unexplained incision that quickly healed.

Rudolph Schild, a noted astrophysicist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics who had spoken up for Mack at the Harvard inquest, joined the group. I had talked to him several times about one of Mack’s friends and veteran experiencers, a woman named Karin Austin, who, some two decades ago, recalled somehow arriving at a clearing in a forest, where she and other humans had been presented with their “hybrid” children. Schild had interviewed Austin and was struck by her uncanny familiarity with the double suns orbiting one another in the Orion belt. How, he marveled, was she able to give such accurate descriptions of seasonal changes particular to a binary system?

Mack presents the Dalai Lama with a copy of his book Abduction: Human Encounters with Aliens in 1999. By Carl Studna.

With the new millennium, Mack’s interest had shifted to a new mystery, the survival of consciousness, particularly the story of his friends Elisabeth Targ, a psychiatrist with an interest in the paranormal, and her husband, Mark Comings, a theoretical physicist specializing in alternative energy. Targ’s grandfather William, as editor in chief of G. P. Putnam’s, had published The Godfather, and her father, Russell, an inventor of the laser, conducted top-secret extrasensory experiments for the C.I.A. in “remote viewing,” the ability to visualize objects thousands of miles away. Elisabeth’s mother, Joan, was the sister of chess grandmaster Bobby Fischer and had taught her little brother the game of chess. Elisabeth was also a prodigy, with unusual mental powers. As a psychiatrist, she practiced distant healing on AIDS patients, and, later, on patients with rare brain tumors, glioblastomas. Then, in a cruel twist of fate, she contracted the same type of cancer and, despite her practice of the non-traditional prayer therapies she championed, died. She was only 40. But now her husband was telling Mack that she was sending him messages of love from beyond the grave. Mack was writing a book about it, Elisabeth and Mark Before and After Death: The Power of a Field of Love. He sent the proposal off to his literary agent with a note: “There is a bit of urgency about this.” In a few days he would be leaving for London to deliver a lecture on his idol, T. E. Lawrence, killed at 46 in a motorcycle accident in England in 1935.

In Newport with the other experiencers, a Tom Hanks look-alike who wanted to be known as “Scott,” the way Mack referred to him in Abduction, remembered their last meeting at Cuvelier’s villa, in the summer of 2004. Mack was excited about his new book, on the survival of consciousness. Scott confessed his own fear of death. Mack reassured him. “You never know when it will be your time,” he said. “We could all go at any time. I could walk out on the street and get hit by a car.”

Raymond Czechowski, a 50-year-old computer technician, had spent three-and-a-half hours at the Royal British Legion, a military charity in north London, planning the latest poppy drive to aid the troops, in the course of which he downed five or six pints of shandy—beer mixed with lemonade and ice. Then, on that mild, clear Monday night of September 27, 2004, he pointed his silver Peugeot north and started driving home.

Just ahead, shortly after 11 P.M., in the north London suburb of Barnet, John Mack climbed wearily out of the Underground station at Totteridge and Whetstone. His talk had gone well, and many in the audience had brought copies of his Lawrence biography, which they asked him to sign. He had also spoken about the death of his father, Edward Mack, who, 31 years before, almost to the day, had been driving home with the groceries to their summer home in Thetford, Vermont, when his car collided with a truck. In London, Mack was staying with a family friend, Veronica Keen, a widow who told him she had been receiving messages from her deceased husband—more evidence, Mack thought, of survival of consciousness. She had said to call her from the station and she would pick him up, but Mack decided to walk. He crossed a divider and stepped into the busy street. His American instinct was to look to the left.

Czechowski hit the brakes, but too late. Mack’s body flew into the air, shattering the Peugeot’s windshield before traveling over the roof and landing heavily on the ground. “He just stepped there, bang,” Czechowski told the police, who registered his alcohol level at well over the limit.

Mack never regained consciousness. From a crumpled paper with an address on it found in his pocket, the police learned his destination and his identity.

Keen, who sat with Mack’s body at the morgue, said he materialized and told her, “It was as if I was touched with a feather. I did not feel a thing. I was given a choice: should I go or should I stay? I looked down at my broken body and decided to go.”

At Mack’s funeral, many recalled one of his favorite quotes, from Rilke’s Letter to a Young Poet (as translated by Stephen Mitchell): “That is at bottom the only courage that is demanded of us: to have courage for the most strange, the most singular and the most inexplicable that we may encounter. That mankind has in this sense been cowardly has done life endless harm; the experiences that are called ‘visions,’ the whole so-called ‘spirit-world,’ death, all those things that are so closely akin to us, have by daily parrying been so crowded out of life that the senses with which we could have grasped them are atrophied. To say nothing of God.”

Barbara Lamb and other friends also reported visitations.

Roberta Colasanti, one of Mack’s research associates, said he communicated to her a cryptic message on the abductions they had been studying: “It’s not what we thought.” Colasanti waited breathlessly for the solution to the mystery, but it didn’t come. Mack promised to return with more information. So far he hasn’t.

Go ahead tell yourself he was just a crazy conspiracy nut.

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lospeakerscorner · 5 years ago

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Il nostro autore questa domenica descrive la Villa Favorita e racconta la sua storia dalle origini della fabbrica sino ai giorni nostri

di Lucio Sandon

«Oggi facemmo visita a Philipp Hackert, il celebre paesaggista, che gode di speciale confidenza e d’insigne favore presso il re e la regina. È un uomo dalle idee assai chiare ed acute, che lavora senza tregua, ma sa godersi la vita. Dopo che i nostri sguardi si furono beati dell’affascinante paesaggio e che un sorso di vino ebbe soddisfatto il nostro stomaco e il nostro palato, ci aggirammo sulla montagna per scorgere altre caratteristiche di questa cima infernale che torreggia in mezzo al paradiso. Mi godetti sinceramente il ritorno, che fu rallegrato dal più meraviglioso tramonto e da una serata sublime. Nel frattempo fui in grado di constatare quanto un portentoso contrasto possa sconvolgere e smarrire i sensi. Il passaggio dal mostruoso al bello e viceversa annulla il significato dell’uno e dell’altro e conduce all’indifferenza. Se non si sentisse stretto fra Dio e Satana, sicuramente il napoletano sarebbe del tutto diverso.»

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

La Real Villa della Favorita venne fatta edificare tra il 1762 ed il 1768 su quattro moggia circa di terreno proprietà di Giuseppe Beretta, duca di Simari e marchese di Mesagne, su progetto dell’architetto Ferdinando Fuga. L’esito è quello di una pianta delicata, mossa e stretta comunque in un formalismo rigido dato dall’uso delle lesene. L’elemento architettonicamente più significativo della costruzione è la grande scalea semicircolare in pietra che si apre sulla facciata posteriore, e mette in comunicazione la terrazza del grande salone ellittico con il parco retrostante.

Alla morte del duca, secondo le sue volontà testamentarie, la villa Favorita fu ereditata dai reali di Borbone, Ferdinando IV e Maria Carolina d’Austria, che la elessero, tra le regge e le ville principesche che possedevano a Caserta, Portici, Castellammare, e Capodimonte, come la “favorita”, la preferita.

La villa fu adibita in un primo momento a residenza della Reale Accademia dei Cavalieri Guardiamarina, che nei suoi giardini organizzavano ogni anno a novembre delle memorabili battute di caccia, poi successivamente agli eventi del 1799, a dimora estiva dei regnanti restaurati. A partire dal 1802 al complesso vennero apportate importanti migliorie: tra esse un imponente impianto boschivo che nei giardini prevaricò sulle luminose e calde geometrie dei busti marmorei e degli aranceti ornamentali. Gli arredi interni alla villa si arricchirono di tessuti provenienti dalle serigrafie di San Leucio, di sculture, busti, un monumentale lampadario di cristallo di rocca a 42 braccia, ghirlande, e al piano nobile di un terrazzo panoramico rivolto verso il mare.

Inaugurata con una spesa per festeggiamenti di oltre 20.000 ducati, dalla regina Maria Carolina, tra i presenti alla festa si ricordano Leopoldo e Maria Luisa di Borbone, il Gran Duca e la Gran Duchessa di Toscana, l’imperatore e l’imperatrice d’Austria.

Nella nota dell’inventario datato 1802 figurano presenti nella galleria della villa Favorita i quadri, oggi tutti in custodia alla Reggia di Caserta, della serie dei porti del Regno di Jakob Hackert, tranne alcuni che vennero trafugati dai francesi. Ecco un estratto dell’inventario:

«Al piano terra ancora amabilmente disposti secondo la maniera del più puro Settecento, il restrettè di sua maestà, con bidè di legno ceraso e maniglie in ottone, con annesso bacile di ramocedro, un’originale di porcellane e una cassetta a piegatore con vasetto di rame, una stanza da gioco ancora ammobiliata e bigliardo personale. L’anticamera del piano nobile conserva la meridiana nelle riggiole di fabbricazione regio meridionali, la loggia con il lungo parapetto, e sopra di esso un orologio a sole di ottone e cupolino di latta chiuso da catenaccetti. La galleria per ospitare i dipinti dei baccanti, la stanza di Marinella, con i muri dipinti a fresco di marine, e diverse figure con balaustra in chiaroscuro. La stanza dell’Etrusca, tutta dipinta all’etrusca, la stanza di Bacco col Trionfo di Bacco ed il quadro di Lorenzo Giusti; il primo Gabinetto col parato d’arazzo sulla Storia di Abramo e nel secondo fiori ed uccelli alla cinese ne dipingono la lamia con colori sgargianti, tutta lumeggiata d’oro ed il parato di calancà indiano e più in là la stanza lunga alla Cinese con figure cinesi ornate tra gli uccelli ed i fiori e cinque porte alla maniera cinese che guardano nelle direzioni delle altre stanze contigue, un camino incastonato tra quattro colonne; ed ancora la stanza delle Vedute ove trovano posto i dipinti su muro delle ville di Cardito e la villa del Real sito della Foresta di Carditello e quella del Belvedere di San Leucio oltre ad un altro bel camino. E quindi, la stanza lunga dei divani e dei bassorilievi dei baccanti e vari dipinti di città pugliesi. Le tre anticamere tutte rivestite di tappezzeria in seta pechino; nella prima anticamera in pechino bianco, trovano posto i dipinti di Filippo Hackert, mentre nella stanza di pechino verde vi sono dipinti di ispirazione siciliana. La disposizione di questi ambienti rispetta la tematica voluta farne centro per la Galleria dove un tempo, oltre ai bassorilievi in marmo bianco fondati turchini ed i sovrapporti rappresentanti i baccanti, di cui quattro di questi, detti anche amorini, posti al centro del sopratremò, esisteva un bellissimo pavimento a mosaico tutto di marmo fatto giungere direttamente da Castiglione sull’isola di Capri, e recuperato da uno dei due Ninfei imperiali di Tiberio ed oggi in esposizione al museo di Capodimonte a Napoli.»

Alla morte di Ferdinando IV la villa passò al figlio Leopoldo, principe di Salerno. Da Gioacchino Murat la villa medesima venne usata per sontuose feste: si ricordano quella del 19 agosto del 1809, vigilia del suo onomastico, e la festa del 10 giugno del 1814, giorno in cui ospitò a Paolina Bonaparte, sorella di Napoleone fatta giungere a Villa Favorita direttamente dall’isola d’Elba.

Tra il 1879 e il 1885 molti ambienti del primo piano furono decorati in uno stile orientale “alla turca” perch�� il governo vi ospitò Ismāʿīl Pascià, deposto Kedivè d’Egitto in esilio in Italia. Il viceré d’Egitto, cacciato per bancarotta, giusto per non impiccarlo al ramo più vicino, era colui che aveva commissionato l’Aida a Giuseppe Verdi, per celebrare l’inaugurazione del canale di Suez e del teatro dell’Opera del Cairo.

Il parco della Favorita comprende peschiere e chioschi in stile moresco, e resta l’area verde storica più grande della costa vesuviana dopo il parco della Reggia di Portici. Il Parco sul Mare della Villa Favorita è quella parte della Real Villa che Ferdinando IV acquistò dai Zezza per creare un’unica grande area verde che conducesse dalla villa al mare.

In una grande fossa circolare era stata costruita una struttura in legno che faceva girare delle giostre a forma di barca. A testimonianza della liberalità dei Borbone, il parco veniva aperto al pubblico in alcuni giorni festivi. Attualmente l’area del Parco a Mare della Favorita è stata risistemata a prato e lecceto, e sono stati restaurati gli edifici presenti tra cui la Palazzina delle Montagne Russe e la bella Palazzina dei Mosaici così chiamata per il rivestimento dei muri del vestibolo e del salone con cocci multicolori di madreperla e porcellana che formano eleganti cornici policrome.

Al termine del parco, un passaggio sottoposto alla linea ferroviaria conduce all’Approdo Borbonico, costituito da due Cafehaus con torrette simmetriche, davanti ai quali si apre una piccola esedra da cui si accede sul molo in pietra vesuviana, ricostruito con l’apposizione di una barriera frangiflutti per proteggerlo dalle mareggiate, e una piattaforma di ormeggio per i collegamenti marittimi con Napoli.

Alla fine degli anni sessanta del secolo scorso il parco a mare fu separato anche fisicamente dal parco superiore, con la realizzazione dell’attuale via Gabriele D’Annunzio.

Lo scrittore Lucio Sandon è nato a Padova nel 1956. Trasferitosi a Napoli da bambino, si è laureato in Medicina Veterinaria alla Federico II, aprendo poi una sua clinica per piccoli animali alle falde del Vesuvio.

Notevole è il suo penultimo romanzo, “La Macchina Anatomica”, Graus Editore, un thriller ambientato a Portici, vincitore di “Viaggio Libero” 2019. Ha già pubblicato il romanzo “Il Trentottesimo Elefante”; due raccolte di racconti con protagonisti cani e gatti: “Animal Garden” e “Vesuvio Felix”, e una raccolta di racconti comici: “Il Libro del Bestiario veterinario”. Il racconto “Cuore di figlio”, tratto dal suo ultimo romanzo “Cuore di ragno”, ha ottenuto il riconoscimento della Giuria intitolato a “Marcello Ilardi” al Premio Nazionale di Narrativa Velletri Libris 2019. Il romanzo “Cuore di ragno” è risultato vincitore ex-aequo al Premio Nazionale Letterario Città di Grosseto “Cuori sui generis” 2019.

Sempre nel 2019, il racconto “Nome e Cognome: Ponzio Pilato” ha meritatola Segnalazione Speciale della Giuria nella sezione Racconti storici al Premio Letterario Nazionale Città di Ascoli Piceno, mentre il racconto “Cuore di ragno” ha ricevuto la Menzione di Merito nella sezione Racconto breve al Premio Letterario Internazionale Voci – Città di Roma. Inoltre, il racconto “Interrogazione di Storia” è risultato vincitore per la Sezione Narrativa/Autori al Premio Letizia Isaia 2109.

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Le Reali Delizie Borboniche – Ercolano Villa della Favorita Il nostro autore questa domenica descrive la Villa Favorita e racconta la sua storia dalle origini della fabbrica sino ai giorni nostri…

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actutrends · 5 years ago

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Two Island Queens on Capri and Ischia

Reigning over Capri and Ischia in the Bay of Naples are two island queens, the Punta Tragara and San Montano Resort & Spa. Each hotel has its own special allure. The buona fortuna is that it’s not necessary to choose between them. Why not experience both?

Capri is Capri is Capri. Smaller than Ischia, it is the fabled destination of travelers for centuries, from emperors to artists. On Capri, one important aspect of any five-star luxury property is its ability to shut out the rest of the world. The day-trippers, tour guides and cruisers must simply fade into a silent background when a guest enters the lobby of a place like Punta Tragara.

Punta Tragara’s 700-square-foot Art Suite has a living room with bathtub.

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The raucous saturation of color inside the lobby matches the intensity of the views outside, but there is a swell of silence that envelops us. The guestrooms and suites are filled with the bright and the avant garde (i.e., serpentine metal screen in No. 61), but honestly, it’s all about the views. They are cliches of the poetic and it’s impossible to get enough of the ever-changing combination of azure, terra-cotta, green and white. This is why we’re here.

Well, that and the food: The Michelin star, locally caught seafood and an impressive cellar make for some very satisfying choices. This hotel could become addictive.

General manager Pietro Paolo Federico ([email protected]) ensured that our visit included lunch at chef Luigi Lionetti’s Le Monzu’, which received its first star on the 2020 list. (The Manfredi group also has another Michelin-starred ristorante on Capri, Mammà, as well as the Michelin-starred ristorante Aroma in Rome.) We were expecting high standards because we’ve visited the Tragara’s sister hotel in Rome, the Manfredi.

Punta Tragara’s Art Suite also comes with a terrace, which overlooks the Faraglioni Rocks.

Punta Tragara is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Even Eisenhower and Churchill stayed here when the property was American headquarters during World War II. Mariana Arpaia ([email protected]) is director of sales and marketing.

Built in 1920 as an enormous private villa designed by Le Corbusier, the Punta Tragara’s 44 rooms and suites were redone within the last two years. It’s hard to compete with the panorama from one of Capri’s highest points, but the contemporary art and furniture bring the Mediterranean light inside. One of six named suites, the 950-square-foot Penthouse Suite (No. 61) on the fifth floor has Capri’s quintessential view, the Faraglioni Rocks, from both the windows and terrace. There is a big, round bed and a small private sauna in the suite.

The Certosa Suite (No. 51) overlooks equally incredible views from its 700 square feet living space. There are 14 Junior Suites, some of them duplex, and 24 rooms, many with sea views. Honestly, the Punta Tragara has so many jaw-dropping vistas from its terra-cotta terraces that it raises the question of why a guest would ever leave their room.

The Monzù Gin Club and American Bar might be one reason, given that it has dozens of gins on the menu, along with a full array of wines and spirits. The Tragara also has a new spa and two pools, one heated. Away from the property, there is nothing to match a private boat trip around the island, with the opportunity to see the hotel perched on a cliff far above the water. Up in the town of Anacapri is another unique villa, the Villa San Michele (c. 1885), which is now a museum dedicated to the owner, Swedish royal doctor Axel Munthe, and his collection of artifacts found on the island. There’s an intimate café on the grounds, which is the perfect place to unwind before heading back down the mountain. Look out for Capri’s indigenous blue lizards — either live or ceramic.

In the afternoon, shop for lemony things (limoncello, soap, linens, scents, candy), custom sandals, Caprese beachwear and designer clothes and accessories from boutiques that line the narrow streets.

Note: Guests should know that getting to Punta Tragara involves a 15-minute walk from the port, which allows time to absorb the ambiance of Capri. Luggage comes on a cart and transport can be arranged in advance for those who need assistance. The hotel is closed from November until just before the Easter / Passover holidays.

Punta Tragara has 14 Junior Suites, some of which are on two levels.

A ferry ride from Capri or Naples, Ischia is the island of spas: Volcanic steam, volcanic mud, natural thermal and man-made pools, beaches, medical and beauty treatment centers sprinkled across the island. Five-star San Montano Resort & Spa towers 1,000 feet up a mountain, perched above the fishing village of Lacco Ameno.

Note: The resort is a favorite of German spa-devotees, who prefer the month of May for their treatment vacations; guests from the U.S. should book both their rooms and spa appointments early for spring vacations. Since there are also expansive outdoor thermal spas on Ischia, such as Negombo and Poseidon, June through September are also good times to visit, when the Mediterranean water is warm enough for swimming. The hotel has its own small private beach, as well as eight pools and tubs.

We first visited San Montano a decade ago and were impressed with the gardens and panorama, but less so with the décor. Completely renovated and now a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the property is vastly better. Hermès fabrics and hand-painted tiles add to the luxe feel. For special requests, contact general manager Maurizio Orlacchio ([email protected]) or spa manager Catrin Sirabella ([email protected]).

San Montano Resort & Spa’s infinity pool contains heated thermal water and has great views over San Montano Bay.

Some of the 76 rooms and suites have both sea and garden views; some suites are duplexes. Sunsets are memorable, with umbrella pines framing the orange sky. The Infinity Pool Suites line a long pool with sight lines down the mountain to the Mediterranean. The Amalfi Suite Sunrise (850 square feet) comes with its own small infinity pool and private terrace. Junior Prestige Suite No. 322 is about 550 square feet and has two balconies, two full baths and a separate living room with sofa bed.

The Elite Sea View suites could be considered for a destination wedding party or family vacation, as they are separated from the main hotel. The two Olea Suites in this section (each about 500 square feet) can be joined to create a four-bedroom / two-bath grand suite with two Jacuzzis. Recently, a group of 50 New Yorkers took a number of Elite Sea View suites for a wedding.

Guests at San Montano come primarily for thermal baths and spa treatments at the Ocean Blue Spa. The black volcanic mud treatments have been a favorite of visitors to Ischia since Roman times and the slightly radioactive mud is supposed to improve both health and appearance. We found that the volcanic mud facials really do smooth the skin. The Gambe Chic (Golden Leg) treatments promise results after five days, which may be why many European guests come for a full week.

The Ischia Suite Sunset has a large terrace and an exclusive Jacuzzi for two people.

In addition to its own restaurants, overseen by executive chef Nandi Porcaro and including La Veranda and Franco’s, San Montano has several bars and cafés for light informal lunches, all with terraces overlooking the village and sea. Its sister hotel in Lacco Ameno, Hotel Reginella, has an excellent seafood restaurant, O’ Pignattello.

Away from the hotel there is the opportunity to rent two luxury boats to explore the island and even sleep onboard. It’s fun to swim to a secluded beach or café / bar accessible only by boat. Nearby shopping includes well-known Italian designers, as well as shops for ceramics (we like Ischia’s red designs). The hotel also offers on-call shuttle service, which allows guests to stroll the Lacco Ameno seafront, stop for an aperitivo and have dinner at O’ Pignattello before returning to the mountaintop for a nightcap. Transportation can be arranged to visit other towns and historic sites on the island.

The San Montano Resort & Spa is closed November through mid-April.

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The post Two Island Queens on Capri and Ischia appeared first on Actu Trends.

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