*The garrison public affairs office translates summaries of local news articles for the convenience of non-Italian speaking community members. The information contained in these summaries is originally written by Italian news sources and does not reflect the opinion of U.S. Army Garrison Italy or any of its tenant commands. Direct any questions about the Italian news to the garrison public affairs office.*

Italian News from Vicenza – June 13, 2025

Regional authorities urge Vicenza to resolve high-speed rail bottleneck June 13, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The Vicenza-Padua high-speed rail project remains stalled as Vicenza has yet to choose an exit route—parallel tracks, a short tunnel, or a long tunnel—preventing finalization of the third section. Regional Councilor Elisa De Berti has urged swift action, stating Padua’s plans cannot advance until Vicenza resolves its bottleneck. Mayor Giacomo Possamai downplays blame, emphasizing the complexity of Vicenza’s junction and ongoing evaluations, including citizen consultations and financial feasibility. The long tunnel option costs €1.2 billion, requiring ministry approval. Meanwhile, concerns over expropriations continue, as past demolitions left families displaced. Talks are ongoing about alternative compensation or relocation solutions, particularly in Settecà, while other towns like Torri di Quartesolo progress with new station plans. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

New Debba bridge, another million neededJune 13, Il Giornale di Vicenza

An increase in funding is required to complete the construction of Debba bridge, as costs have exceeded initial estimates by over a million euros. The economic plan needs to be revised based on the recent executive project submitted to Province. Next Monday, the Vicenza Province council will be called to approve the budget variation, adding resources to the 13 million already allocated by Province with the participation of the Municipality. The study for the second section of the project – from San Pietro Intrigogna to Vicenza East highway toll booth overpass – is progressing. The Land Commission is aiming to finalize design alternatives, bridge and new road, by the end of September. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)

Tonezza, American Soldiers give educational games to children “Our way to say thank you”June 13, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Last year, during the land navigation exercises, the Municipality of Tonezza del Cimone had made available to the Soldiers of the 173rd Airborne Brigade and SETAF-AF the former logistics center of the air force for the parking of vehicles and the storage of materials. A welcome collaboration, so much so that in recent days there came an unexpected gesture of friendship. Three soldiers of the United States Army assigned to SETAF-AF together with an officer of the Italian army, visited the “Fogazzaro” primary school. Accompanied by the Mayor Franco Bertagnoli, the Soldiers spent time with the children and gave them educational games to learn the English language. The children were first surprised and then enthusiastic about the visit. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

On call bus at night, now on Fridays you can travel until 2 a.m. June 13, Il Giornale di Vicenza

In the first five months of 2025, SVT has recorded significant growth in the use of the night on call service, so they have decided to extend the hours on Friday until 2 a.m. A summer test for now, which will allow SVT to verify the actual use of the nighttime slots. The service is active on the urban network of Vicenza, with 306 stops, from 8:30–11:30 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday, on Friday until 2 a.m. and on Saturday until 3:30 a.m. You can book a ride via the “SVT ChiamaBus” App or by calling the dedicated call center on 0444–223113 (active - for this service - from Monday to Saturday, excluding holidays, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.). The request can be made for a real-time ride (the ride is scheduled within the next 30 minutes), for a specific day or for multiple days for a period of up to seven days. For assistance call 0444–223118 during the same hours and days of activation of the service. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Sperando la Bellezza” art exhibition opens at Monte BericoJune 13, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The solo exhibition “Sperando la Bellezza” by Vittorio Buset, a Josephite priest and artist, opens on June 14 at the Museum of Sacred Art in Monte Berico. Buset, formerly custodian of Madonna dell'Orto in Venice, explores themes of Mary, suffering, and redemption through sculptures and material art crafted from discarded materials. His 30 works, created in the last three years, include four Marian sculptures and panels like Oltre (Beyond) and Ascesi (Asceticism), which reflect the battle between good and evil, unity and division, matter and spirit. The dominant white tones symbolize purity and transcendence, punctuated by stark nails representing Christ’s suffering. Buset’s art, shaped by humble materials, expresses a spiritual search for beauty in forgotten remnants of humanity. The exhibition runs until July 20, with weekend visiting hours. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Local police, the balance of five months of workJune 12, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Five criminals arrested red-handed, 786 doses seized, over 6,700 checks and 68 people investigated are the results of the work of the Vicenza Police from January to May. The police carried out 75 anti-drug operations, identifying more than 170 people, of which at least half with specific precedents. But the phenomenon is difficult to repress because those who deal operate with small quantities to avoid criminal consequences. The geography of dealing is also changing, as those who do not want to be intercepted move outside Campo Marzo for quick exchanges in more secluded areas. The Antidegradation team carried out 6,700 checks and identified 500 people in parks, neighborhoods and critical points of the center. In collaboration with social services and street units, several homeless people were convinced to accept shelter in municipal facilities. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

“Euro 5” diesel ban begins in October: two-thirds of vehicles affectedJune 12, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Starting Oct. 1, 2025, Euro 5 diesel cars will be banned in the Veneto, Lombardy, Piedmont and Emilia Romagna under Decree Law 121/2023, aimed at reducing air pollution. The restrictions will affect around one million vehicles, with two out of three cars in the province of Vicenza forced off the roads. The ban applies Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and during air pollution alerts. However, officials—including Minister Matteo Salvini and regional presidents—are advocating for a postponement until October 2027, citing the measure’s modest emission benefits and potential hardships for motorists. Meanwhile, a Move-In tracking system has been introduced, allowing the most polluting vehicles to drive a limited number of kilometers per year. The municipality of Vicenza has joined the initiative, though exact participation numbers are still pending. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza police headquarters faces staff shortages while Bassano gains reinforcementsJune 12, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The Ministry of the Interior has announced new police reinforcements, but only the Bassano station will benefit, with a historic increase of 10 officers, bringing its staff to 47. This will allow full 24-hour service, a major improvement. Meanwhile, Vicenza’s police headquarters has been left out, despite suffering severe staff shortages. No new officers have been assigned, and retirements are rapidly depleting the force—33 officers will leave by the end of 2025. Police unions warn that workloads are overwhelming, leaving exhausted officers with backlogged vacation time and struggling to maintain patrol shifts. Departments across Vicenza are affected, including traffic, postal and railway police, which are critically understaffed. Union representatives stress that at least 50-60 reinforcements are urgently needed to prevent further decline, as retirements will continue next year. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Trains cancelled to allow maintenance over the next two weekends June 12, Il Giornale di Vicenza

From 8:10 p.m. on Saturday, June 14 to 7:50 a.m. on Sunday, June 15, and from 8:10 p.m. on June 28 to 7:50 a.m. on June 29, trains will be suspended between the stations of Verona Porta Nuova and Grisignano di Zocco to allow maintenance and upgrading work on the railway line. There will be a shuttle bus service to connect the two stations. Moreover, on June 14-15 and 28-29 the Frecciarossa trains Torino-Milan-Venice-Udine-Trieste will be cancelled or have their routes changed, and – in any case – will not stop in Vicenza. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Vicenza police conduct realistic hostage crisis exercise at exhibition center June 11, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The Vicenza state police conducted a hostage crisis drill at the exhibition center to test their emergency response. The simulation involved an armed suspect holding a hostage in a van, with negotiators and officers engaging in real-time tactics. The suspect eventually released the hostage but attempted to attack officers, who swiftly restrained him. A second phase simulated a hostage situation inside the exhibition halls, requiring coordinated intervention. Police Chief Francesco Zerilli emphasized the importance of realistic training to prepare for rare but plausible urban threats, ensuring fast, effective decision-making in critical situations. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Roadwork in progress along Borgo Casale and Viale Trissino June 11, www.comunedivicenza.it

Until June 22, the stretch of Borgo Casale to the intersection with Viale Trissino is undergoing replacement and strengthening work of the underground services. There will be a temporary traffic light regulating an alternating one-way system. Moreover, work is planned for the stretch of Viale Trissino that goes from the roundabout of Via Bassano to the intersection with Via Alberi until Aug. 22, and during this time the road width will be reduced and the lane near Via Simonetti and Via Alberi will be closed. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Popular ice cream destinations in Vicenza June 11, VicenzaToday

Gelaterie become crowded destinations in the summer. Among the most popular in Vicenza there are:

*Capo di Latte: innovation and quality ingredients

It is the perfect choice for those who love to experiment. Here the ice cream is made with organic and short supply chain ingredients, guaranteeing freshness, authenticity and surprising combinations. Located in Piazza San Lorenzo, it is the only ice cream parlor with outdoor tables in the city center.

*Il Gelataio: the excellence of tradition

Since 1990, it offers creamy flavors prepared with fresh and natural ingredients. There is also a wide selection for intolerant and vegans, with fruit sorbets without milk. It is in Viale Francesco Crispi, 57.

*Gelateria Brustolon: authenticity that makes history

Open since 1927, it is a true city institution. Specialties include freshly prepared fruit sorbets, rich and full-bodied dark chocolate, classic creams such as hazelnut and zabaglione. Located in Contrà Pusterla, 23.

*Historic ice cream shop Artigiano Palladiano: simplicity and quality

In the heart of the historic center, near Piazza dei Signori, Artigiano offers natural ice cream. Among the most popular flavors are fior di latte, stracciatella, chocolate and coconut, mango, strawberry and lemon sorbets. Address is Contrà Muschieria, 23. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Recent Italian News highlights

“Pizza in Piazza” returns: a weekend of gourmet creationsJune 10, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The third edition of “Pizza in Piazza" returns this weekend in Piazza dei Signori, celebrating contemporary pizza with 11 renowned chefs, including stars like Matteo Grandi and Renato Bosco. The festival, organized by Eccellenza nella Pizza, will feature tasting tours, beverage corners, workshops for kids, DJ sets and panels. New this year is a focus on emerging talent and inclusive menus, offering low-carb, vegetarian and vegan options. A press tour will highlight Vicenza’s historic center and the Lessini Mountains' wine and food scene, while a debate on pizza entrepreneurship takes place Saturday at Loggia del Capitaniato. The event culminates Sunday evening with live music and pizza pairings featuring craft beer, sparkling wines and soft drinks. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

The Civic Tower in Bassano reopens after a year June 10, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The countdown for the reopening of the Civic Tower to residents and tourists has begun. The 14th-century monument, over 40 meters high and overlooking Piazza Garibaldi, will reopen in the first half of July. The reopening is part of the program to enhance the city’s medieval heritage promoted by the culture department. The tower will be accessible on weekend afternoons and holidays, but also during “Bassano sotto le stelle,” a series of evening events on Wednesdays in July. In the past, the extraordinary opening on summer evenings has attracted thousands of visitors, eager to climb to the top to observe the historic center from above. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

New cycle path coming soon along Bacchiglione RiverJune 9, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza is set to enhance its cycling infrastructure with a new cycle path along the Bacchiglione River, connecting Bassano Park to Piazza Matteotti. The first section, leading toward the stadium, is nearly complete, while a second 380-meter stretch, including a new footbridge, will be unveiled in the coming months. The project, funded with €875,000, integrates with existing cycle and pedestrian routes, allowing smoother access to the university, stadium and Bassano car park. Mayor Giacomo Possamai and Councilor Cristiano Spiller have highlighted the initiative as a strategic intervention for urban mobility, ensuring better accessibility and sustainability. Work, which began in September 2024, includes ramp demolitions and temporary closures as the infrastructure is completed. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Sagra di Vivaro near Dueville, specialty is the trout Vivaro-styleJune 9, VicenzaToday

From June 13 to 17, the “Sagra di Vivaro” returns to Vivaro in Piazza San Pio X with musical entertainment; sporting events; amusement park; charity raffle and food stand open every evening from 7 p.m. The menu includes Vivaro-style trout; trout lasagna; baccalà alla vicentina; stewed cuttlefish; mixed grilled meat and homemade desserts. The sagra will end on Tuesday, June 17 at 11:30 p.m. with fireworks. The recipe for the signature dish calls for rainbow trout boiled in vegetable broth and covered with a blended sauce of white onion; anchovies; parsley; lemon juice; extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkling of parmesan cheese and cooked in the oven. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Spectacular cart race and fair in Marostica this weekendJune 9, VicenzaToday

On June 14 and 15, Marostica revives its most daring tradition with the “Palio dea Caretera de Marostega,” an event that combines history, competition and community spirit. The race takes place on a breathtaking 2,000-meter downhill course, from the Upper Castle to the Lower Castle through the Rovaredo Valley. The attractions of the race are the careti, handcrafted wooden vehicles built with local materials: three longitudinal axles, two transverse axles and a rudder operated by strings. The wooden wheels, covered in rubber, guarantee grip without compromising the traditional style. In addition to the spectacular race, there will be food stands, music and entertainment for the whole family. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Italia-America Friendship Festival: celebrating 70 years of cultural connection in Vicenza June 7, Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza is set to host the Italia-America Friendship Festival from Sept. 12-14, at the Palladian Basilica, celebrating 70 years of ties between Vicenza and the U.S.–home to Italy’s largest American community. The festival, organized by the municipality and NIAF, aims to highlight the historical, artistic, culinary and cultural connections between the two nations. Attendees can enjoy seminars on iconic dishes; lectures on Christopher Columbus; cooking shows; literary events; museum visits and film screenings. Leading up to the main event, a series of activities will run from June 10 to July 15, featuring talks by historians, book presentations, a documentary screening and a special Independence Day event discussing freedom in cinema, comics and TV. This festival offers a unique opportunity to celebrate shared heritage and deepen the bond between Italian and American cultures. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Venice welcomes new daily flights to Dallas-Fort Worth June 7, Il Giornale di Vicenza

American Airlines and Gruppo Save have announced the launch of daily flights connecting Marco Polo Airport to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, the airline’s largest hub. This new service joins the Philadelphia flights, reintroduced in March, contributing to the growth of American Airlines’ Italian network, now offering 12 daily flights from Italy to the U.S. “This new connection strengthens our commitment to fostering ties between northeastern Italy and the U.S.,” said José A. Freig of American Airlines. “The Dallas route opens access to destinations across the southwestern U.S. and 25 cities in Mexico,” added Camillo Bozzolo of Gruppo Save. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

In the Berici Hills there is a small dairy run by three women that makes extraordinary cheeses June 6, VicenzaToday

Caseificio Sapori di Montegnago is an all-female dairy where Michela, Elisa and Anna transform the fresh milk of their cows into authentic cheeses. The Murlone allo Zafferano stands out in their production: a soft cheese with a beautiful straw yellow color and a sweet and delicate taste. Also, there are special yogurts; ricotta hearts with cranberries; pistachios; or rose petals; calendula caciottine with floral scents and elegant vegetal notes. The company is open to the public and is in Belvedere di Villaga, surrounded by greenery. The cheeses can be purchased directly on site or every Saturday morning at the Campagna Amica market, in the former Chamber of Commerce of Vicenza. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

The rebirth of the Vicenza train station is underway May 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The revitalization process of the Vicenza railway station is ongoing. After the three new waiting rooms opened last week, on May 29, it was the turn of the bicycle storage in the east wing, to the left of the entrance: an automated service, with controlled access, which allows entry with the bike, park it and go to the platform. Soon, an ice cream shop will open and discussions are underway between the Municipality and RFI on identifying spaces for complementary activities, such as associations and services. All this while waiting for what will be the real “revolution” starting in 2027, with an estimated investment of 50 million euros for a radical transformation that includes interventions to adapt to anti-seismic standards and the functional, plant and architectural redevelopment of the station. In the immediate future, the parking lot will be closed starting from June 1. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Leiten War Memorial reopened in Asiago May 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza

There was great participation May 28 in Asiago for the reopening of the Leiten military shrine, the renown memorial monument that houses the remains of more than 54,000 Italian and Austro-Hungarian fallen soldiers of the Great War. In attendance the undersecretary of defense Isabella Rauti, and many provincial and regional military and civil authorities, including the President of the Veneto Regional Council Roberto Ciambetti, as well as local mayors and combatant associations. This is not only “due but a dutiful commitment towards the Fallen, towards those who returned home, their families and the civilian population that suffered during the Great War, but also towards the younger generations, represented here by the students of the Asiago schools,” underlined Rauti. Asiago Mayor Roberto Rigoni Stern made sure that the planned work financed since 2015 could be executed. “I feel a great sense of responsibility towards the citizens, the armed forces associations and my fellow mayors in cutting the ribbon, because we are reopening a monument that is a living stone of our collective history where war can erase names but not memory. The Shrine represents not only a monument to the sacrifice of an entire generation but also an altar of reconciliation where enemies of the past rest together united in eternal silence,” said Rigoni Stern. During upcoming interventions that will include a new multimedia center and access to the terrace, there may be areas closed but some will be accessible to public. (Summary by Laura Kreider)

Ospedaletto overpass, reopening scheduled for the end of June May 28, VicenzaToday

Despite the uncertain weather, work continues to secure the ramp at the overpass of Strada dell’ Ospedaletto, closed since May 9. The 250,000-euro intervention to prevent new landslides includes a deep structural intervention. The total closure to vehicular traffic will continue until the end of June, barring unforeseen events. Pedestrian and cycle passage is guaranteed. For vehicles, there are two viable alternatives:

*Route 1: Viale Anconetta, Viale Trieste, Via Quadri, Strada di Bertesina

*Route 2: Vicenza Nord junction, Via Acque, Lisiera centro, Via Albereria, Via Quintarello, Strada di Bertesina (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Here are some of the best hamburgers in Vicenza May 28, VicenzaToday

Classic, vegetarian or gourmet, a hamburger always has its charm. If you are looking for some of the best hamburgers in Vicenza, this is the right place:

Beppe’s Snack: A dive into the Vicenza tradition -- An institution in Vicenza, Beppe’s Snack in Contrà Porta Santa Lucia has a long tradition of serving quality sandwiches and hamburgers. There is also a wide selection of beers to best accompany your hamburger.

Busa dei Briganti: A historic pub with excellent burgers -- For lovers of the pub atmosphere, the Busa dei Briganti Pub in Contrà Portici 24 is a must. Here you can enjoy an excellent hamburger prepared with high quality meat and artisanal bread. The atmosphere is welcoming and informal.

Bamburger: A modern place for a gourmet hamburger -- Located in Contrà Cantarane 15, Bamburger stands out for its proposal of gourmet hamburgers made with the highest quality ingredients and artisanal bread. All ingredients are local, and they even make their own mayo, ketchup and mustard.

JAM Burger&Music: A versatile venue for every occasion -- In Via Zamenhof you can find burgers made with fresh and seasonal ingredients and a wide selection of craft beers. The atmosphere is young and vibrant, perfect for an evening of music and good food. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Nautical activity suspended in Lago di Fimon May 28, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Lago di Fimon is reduced to a swamp, and according to president of the Lega Navale di Vicenza, Piergiorgio Xodo, "It is impossible even to row, and it will get worse, given the pollution from phosphates and nitrogen present in the food that fishermen throw. Tons of vegetable fertilizer that only favors the proliferation of algae.” The Province of Vicenza assures that researchers commissioned by the University of Parma are working to find a solution, but so far there are no concrete results. Even the mayor of Arcugnano Marco Carollo agrees that the body of water must be redeveloped to bring back tourism and economic benefits. But in the meantime, nautical activity is suspended. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Campo Marzo, a temporary kiosk-bar will be the test to revitalize the area – May 22, Il Giornale di Vicenza

In the next few days, the fenced-in area of Campo Marzo known as Parco dell’ Ippodromo will feature a temporary kiosk-bar which will serve drinks and have a platform for small events, such as debates, cultural meetings or moments of musical entertainment. The kiosk will remain in operation for a maximum of 30 days, coinciding in its final phase with the Lumen Festival. For the city administration, this will be an important opportunity to test the rebirth of an area that has always been difficult to manage from a security point of view. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Good and bad changes at the train station: new waiting rooms, but the parking lot closes – May 17, Il Giornale di Vicenza

From May 31, the parking lot in Viale Milano will no longer be available. The two car parks “P1” (290 spaces) and “P2” (167), managed by Fs Park, will be closed for the high-speed and high-capacity train construction site. While the station prepares for this revolution, it is also becoming more attractive with new waiting areas boasting images of the city in the background and a view of the external square. One has already set up a counter with power outlets as a support point for studying and working. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Coffee, community and greenery: Querini Park’s revamp begins May 14, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Querini Park’s old greenhouses are getting a fresh start. The social cooperative Agendo has secured a three-year concession to turn them into an inclusive botanical café, set to open in September. The café will offer employment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities, just like Agendo’s other ventures. To make it happen, they’ve launched a fundraiser to cover furnishings, coffee machines and renovations—an €80,000 project. The café will be in the cold greenhouse, serving food and drinks from Agendo’s workshops, while the hot greenhouse will become a Sensory Garden and design exhibition space. There’s also a Community Room for events and cultural activities. The whole project aims to blend social inclusion with the beauty of a European-style park. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Bialetti is no longer Italian: another piece of “Made in Italy” goes to ChinaApril 16, Today.it

Bialetti, the iconic company linked to the famous moka, leaves Italian control after more than a century. The Nuo Capital fund linked to Hong Kong magnate Stephen Cheng signed two agreements for the acquisition of 78.56 percent of the share capital of Bialetti Industrie. Founded in 1919, Bialetti is one of the symbolic brands of Italian industrial design, famous throughout the world for the Brikka moka, an icon of the domestic ritual of coffee. The transfer of control to Nuo Capital, a group based in Luxembourg, reignites the debate on the sale of historic national brands and the future of production in Italy. It remains to be seen whether the new ownership will maintain its headquarters and production activities in Italy, or whether part of the operations may be relocated to Asia. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Basilica terrace bar reopens with extended managementApril 16, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The terrace bar of the Palladian Basilica is set to reopen this weekend, weather permitting, following an extension granted to previous concessionaire Palladio 9. City officials expedited the reopening to begin the season before Easter, pushing aperitif hours forward to 6 p.m. Meanwhile, the city is finalizing a tender process to select a long-term concessionaire for the next five years. The five-year concession is valued at €550,000, with an annual fixed fee starting at €15,300. The terrace bar will operate Fridays and Saturdays from 6 to 11 p.m. and Sundays from 6 to 9 p.m., offering visitors a unique experience overlooking the historic center. The timeline for selecting a new manager remains uncertain, but for now, the service continues under a temporary arrangement. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

A network of Palladian Villas: Vicenza’s UNESCO initiative April 14, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The City of Vicenza has developed a 2024-2030 Management Plan to address challenges in managing the UNESCO site “The City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas in Veneto.” Spanning seven provinces and 24 villas, the site’s fragmented nature poses difficulties in accessibility, oversight and financial sustainability. The plan seeks to create a cohesive network that promotes collaboration between public and private entities, supports conservation and enhances public enjoyment. Recent achievements include reopening sites like Santa Maria Nova and increasing access to Villa Gazzotti. The plan also focuses on education, community engagement and digitization, integrating heritage into daily life. This approach aims to make the villas sustainable cultural hubs, serving as an innovative model for managing widespread heritage sites. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Financial Times: Palladio’s villas among top destinations for 2025 January 13, VicenzaToday

The Financial Times has highlighted a tour of Palladio’s villas in Vicenza among its top 50 vacation destinations for 2025. A recommended, exclusive five-night tour features visits to several private villas, including La Rotonda, La Malcontenta and Villa Emo. Other notable Italian destinations include an overnight train from Brussels to Venice, a stay in a Faro in Ischia, and a trip to Sardinia’s Nuraghi. For budget-conscious travelers, the newspaper suggests booking a train from Brussels Midi to Venice, passing through Innsbruck, Ponte Gardena, the Dolomites and Bolzano for less than €150. For those seeking luxury, the “La Dolce Vita Orient Express” offers a lavish circular route from Rome Ostiense to the caves of Matera (Basilicata), and back north to the hill of Pescocostanzo (Abruzzo). (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Storks build nests in the Bassano area – March 9, Il Giornale di Vicenza

White storks like the Bassano area. After a couple chose a pylon in Cartigliano as their home, a short distance away another couple has decided to set up home near the San Bassiano Hospital. A double event that the volunteers of LIPU, an environmental association committed to protecting birds, conserving nature and promoting ecological culture, are monitoring with great attention. With their work of securing the nests, they are confident that the hatching of these waders will be successful, thus increasing a population that returned to Italy in the middle of the last century after five centuries of absence. The stork lives on average 25 years. It is a monogamous species and plays a role of fundamental importance in the defense of biodiversity. In Italy the conservation status of the white stork is still inadequate and the population currently numbers 320-330 couples, divided between Calabria, Puglia, Campania and the internal area of the Po Valley. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Madonna of Monte Berico embarks on historic five-continent pilgrimage March 5, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The journey of the Madonna of Monte Berico across five continents begins this March 7, symbolizing faith and hope. The initiative, led by Vicentini nel Mondo, connects Vicenza with its global communities. The statue will visit Argentina; Brazil; Australia; Canada; South Africa; France; Luxembourg; Belgium; Switzerland and Uruguay before returning to Italy in 2027. March 7 marks the anniversary of the Virgin’s first appearance on Monte Berico in 1426. Celebrations kick off with the statue on display at the Loggia del Capitaniato from 9 a.m., followed by a 6 p.m. ceremony, a 7 p.m. community prayer at the Sanctuary, and an evening cultural event featuring faith, music and poetry. The pilgrimage celebrates the enduring spiritual bond with the Sanctuary of Monte Berico. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

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