*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 – July 1, 2025
San Bortolo ER revamp: expanded, upgraded, patient-focused – July 1, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The emergency department at San Bortolo Hospital in Vicenza is undergoing a significant renovation to address overcrowding and modernize facilities. The waiting room will expand from 40 to 130 seats, with improved spacing, comfort, lighting and privacy. The project also includes a complete revamp of the adjacent “hot room” ambulance area, untouched since 1998, and upgrades to all safety and climate systems. The €1 million project aims to enhance both patient experience and working conditions. Construction is expected to begin soon and wrap up within a year. With ER visits surpassing 80,000 in 2024 and climbing steadily, the redesign responds to chronic overcrowding—especially as 70 percent of visits fall under non-urgent codes, straining a system originally designed in the 1960s. The overhaul is seen as a vital step in humanizing healthcare and restoring functionality to one of the region’s most critical services. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Viale Roma roadwork expands, traffic adjustments through December – June 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Work on Viale Roma in Vicenza is ramping up, with construction extending from Via Gorizia to Piazzale De Gasperi. Until Dec. 8, this section will see alternating narrowing of sidewalks and roadways. Despite disruptions, the city assures continuous one-way traffic flow, pedestrian access and availability of nearby parking facilities. Launched on May 5, the project—funded by the €3.5M NextGenerationEU program—includes sewer and aqueduct upgrades led by Viacqua. Once underground work is complete, the city will begin redeveloping Piazzale De Gasperi. Meanwhile, the weekly Thursday market will temporarily relocate to Piazza Matteotti and Viale Dalmazia. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
The Deer of Fertazza, the new work by the artist Martalar – June 30, www.giornalealtopiano.it
The latest work created by the sculptor from Mezzaselva di Roana Marco Martello Martalar is a deer. It is called the “Cervo del Fertazza” and is located in the Dolomites, between Civetta and Pelmo. The deer is sculpted in wood that fell during the Vaia storm at the end of October 2018. A work that is not just a sculpture, but a symbol of resilience and tenacity. The sculpture is seven meters tall and weighs about 1500 kilos. Made of 1,500 pieces of wood collected partly on the Plateau and partly on the Dolomites, it is Martalar’s work located at the highest altitude, 2100 meters. To reach it there are two options: a walk of about an hour starting from the Staulanza Pass, or the Pescul chairlift starting from Selva di Cadore. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Where to take a dip in Vicenza and the province during the summer – June 30, VicenzaToday
For those who want to cool off, the outdoor pools of Vicenza and the province are the ideal solution:
Vicenza Water Park – Via Forlanini, 13
Olympic pool, adrenaline-filled slides (kamikaze and toboggan), slow river, hydromassages, children's play area, green area and sports fields.
Vicenza Pools – Viale Ferrarin, 71
One of the most popular facilities in the city, with outdoor pools, solarium, water games, equipped lawn and summer courses. Suitable for all ages.
Altavilla Aquapark – Altavilla Vicentina
Outdoor facility with slides, play pools and relaxation areas. Particularly loved by families and children.
Cavazzale (Monticello Conte Otto) – Outdoor pool, large lawn with loungers and umbrellas, bar kiosk and extended hours in summer. Great for families and relaxation.
Aquarea Vicenza – Aquarea manages several summer facilities in the province, all with uncovered pools, green areas and seasonal services. Among them there are the Caldogno Summer Pool and S. Pio X Municipal Summer Pool in Vicenza
Conca Verde Water Park – Borso del Grappa
Located at the foot of Monte Grappa, it is a large water park with pools, slides, whirlpools, play areas and sports fields. Surrounded by greenery, it is perfect for day trips. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Hot summer, muggy weather and tropical nights – June 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza
It’s hot, very hot. It is due to the African anticyclone that arrives from the North African desert and its air is humidified as it passes over the Mediterranean. So, we are stuck with high temperatures and high humidity. The good news is that from July 1, it could rain and cool down in the mountains and on Tuesday also in the plains. But this muggy heat will last for weeks, with violent storms ready to break out. In June, Vicenza recorded three “tropical nights,” that is, with the temperature never below 68 degrees; and for a week the maximum has always exceeded 86 degrees. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Italy-U.S. Friendship, Mayor of Vicenza Possamai says “Yes to the Festival, but we are not with Trump” – June 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza
One can organize a cultural initiative that promotes dialogue between people and communities tied for centuries without mistaking it in any way for a political adherence to Donald Trump’s policies. This is the meaning of the words of Mayor of Vicenza Giacomo Possamai in the aftermath of the protests against the Italy-U.S. Friendship Festival. Possamai says he understands “the discomfort that one feels in speaking of ‘friendship’ with a country that in our city is present with a massive military infrastructure, which has marked history and the urban landscape with choices that were often suffered.” But, hosting a festival does not mean being a fan of the current U.S. administration. “The festival was born as a cultural initiative, to promote a dialogue between people, communities and worlds that have been intertwined for centuries, from Palladian architecture to the stories of many Vicenza residents who emigrated to the U.S., to the exchange of experiences between sports clubs in the area. As I see it, culture must have the courage not to back down, even when the context is complex or divisive,” he added. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Montepian hike to discover Priabona and Vallugana jewels – June 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza
San Tomio di Malo hills and districts are a natural, historical, artistic and archaeological heritage of considerable interest. There are two different itineraries to discover the area, presented by the Municipality of Malo and described in the “Walking through our hills” guide. From Piazza Gen. Valerio Bassetto in San Tomio, where there is a detailed map, you can choose: the 11-kilometer scenic loop Montepian; the 16-kilometer “Creste” trail; the six-kilometer “Asini” trail and the 10.5-kilometer “Capitelli” trail, depending on the difficulty level and the available time you have. During the hike, you can admire a wide and beautiful landscape that embraces the Berici Hills and the plain, the Lessini and the hills of Agno Valley, the Littles Dolomites and the Veneto plain. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)
Vicenza area traffic fines reach €13.3M, speeding rarely penalized – June 28, Il Giornale di Vicenza
In 2024, municipalities in the Vicenza area collected €13.3 million in traffic fines—but just €523,000 (3.9 percent) came from speeding violations. Despite speeding being a leading cause of accidents, enforcement is limited due to strict technical requirements for speed cameras and mobile checks. Vicenza city led with €6 million in fines, though only €153,000 related to speeding. Most penalties stem from easier-to-enforce infractions like parking and red-light violations. Smaller towns like Isola, Brogliano and Romano d’Ezzelino stood out for higher-than-average speeding fines, but many municipalities reported under €10,000—or none at all. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Via Aldo Moro speed cameras seized, €400,000 in fines now in limbo –June 28, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Two speed cameras on Via Aldo Moro in Vicenza were deactivated in February 2025 after being seized by prosecutors for lacking the necessary certification, despite being formally approved. The devices had recorded over 8,600 violations in a year, amounting to €350,000–€400,000 in fines now in legal limbo. The case underscores a key legal distinction: without homologation (i.e. full certification), fines are considered void—per a Court of Cassation ruling. While the legal issue targets the supplier, not the municipality, Vicenza faces potential financial losses and a pause in enforcement. Citizens may appeal for refunds, and the devices may remain offline for an extended period. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Beef Tagliata Festival in Sarmego July 4-9 – June 3, VicenzaToday
The 16th edition of the Beef Tagliata Festival in Sarmego near Grumolo delle Abbadesse is scheduled for July 4-9. The culinary specialty of the event is the beef tagliata, together with other local dishes such as bigoli, gnocchi and sopressa. The food stand will be open at 7 p.m. every night. The festival will also feature live music every night, rides for children and fireworks at 11:45 p.m. on July 9 to close the festivities. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Recent Italian News highlights
Vicenza pushes for direct high-speed train to Rome – June 27, Il Giornale di Vicenza
A motion backed unanimously by Vicenza’s city council calls for the restoration of a direct high-speed rail connection to Rome—lost during the pandemic. Councilors Francesco Rucco and Marco Zocca highlighted the city’s disadvantage compared to others like Belluno, which, despite lacking infrastructure, maintains direct intercity service. The motion urges the mayor to engage with Trenitalia for a Frecciarossa or Italo link via Bologna and Florence. Councilor Angelo Tonello noted Sunday departures to Rome from Vicenza are later than from nearby cities due to a lack of early regional trains, reminding that such schedules are set at the regional level. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
“A Timeless Kiss in Verona,” Klimt and Shakespeare in an immersive journey through art and emotions – June 10, www.sgaialand.it
Until Sept. 21, the Teatro Ristori in Verona hosts “A Timeless Kiss,” an immersive show that fuses art, sound and movement in two universal icons of love: Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss and the eternal drama of Romeo and Juliet. For 44 minutes every hour, from 10 a.m. to 8. .pm, the theatre pulsates to the rhythm of this immersive narration, where the visual power of Klimt’s art meets the intensity of Shakespeare’s words. The famous Golden Kiss and the balconies of Verona thus become a new story, which celebrates love in all its forms. For more info: www.teatroristori.org (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Caldogno boosts urban security with 15 new surveillance cameras – June 24, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Union of Municipalities of Caldogno and Isola Vicentina has enhanced its urban safety network with 15 new video surveillance cameras aimed at improving road safety and combating illegal waste disposal. The upgrades include:
*Nine new license plate-reading (Targa System) cameras, added to the existing network, for real-time traffic and stolen vehicle detection
*Six cameras installed at recycling centers (three in each municipality) to deter littering
*A mobile surveillance unit to monitor sensitive areas and support investigations, including in anti-drug operations.
With a combined investment of nearly €80,000, these initiatives mark a step forward in preventing petty crime and improving service delivery through smart technology. Commander Achille Costa notes a decrease in hit-and-run impunity thanks to the new systems. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
“4 Gatti in Piazza”? free concerts in the bars of the city center – June 23, VicenzaToday
Vicenza lights up the summer with live music in the city center, thanks to a network of venues that want to bring new life into the city's evenings. Every Wednesday and Thursday from 6 to 10 p.m. and every Friday from 6 to 11 p.m., until Sept. 26, there will be concerts and live musical entertainment.
The participating venues are:
- Alle Erbe, Cantina del Tormento, Refe Refettorio Birraio – Piazza delle Erbe
- Paninaro – Contrà della Catena
- Biasio Centro – Piazza delle Biade
- Zest – Contrà delle Morette
- Taverna 4 and 2/3 – Contrà Piancoli Lioy
- Quintana – Contrà Manin
- Chocolate, Contrà – Contrà del Monte
- Bottega Faustino – Piazzetta Parise
- Oca Bianca – Contrà Porti
- Antico Caffè Scrigni – Piazza del Duomo
- Malombra, Bowls Drinks Manawa Poke – Corso Fogazzaro
(Summary by Angela Balbo)
Another summer without the Peace Park – June 22, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The municipality is working to open the Peace Park at the end of September. The 65-hectare area owned by the city will be managed by a mixed participation foundation between the public, private and third sector, which will coordinate all the individual managers of the various activities to be developed in the park. The opening date is not set in stone yet, but it will likely be the end of September in conjunction with the 2025 edition of the Hangar Palooza Festival (scheduled from Sept. 25 to 28). It will be a “soft” opening managed by the Vicenza Municipality, which will then pass the baton to the foundation by the end of the year. The park will house various activities that should become a source of income including sports; a bar/restaurant; kiosks; events; coworking spaces, as well as a flight museum and urban gardens. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Photo exhibit shows Vicenza’s beloved landmarks razed to the ground in WWII – June 21, Il Giornale di Vicenza
One hundred-fifty photographs of a Vicenza devastated by bombs: the Bishop’s Palace in Piazza Duomo, destroyed; Viale Eretenio, a pile of rubble; the train station, devastated; Palazzo Nievo, gutted; the bodies of the dead in Corso Fogazzaro. These are powerful images taken by Giovanni Maria Sandrini, kept in the Raimondo Sandrini archive. They document what happened in Vicenza between December 1943 and March 1945. It seems almost impossible, looking at those numerous shots, to think that those places of the city so familiar to everyone were reduced in that way. It is the story of a city, of pain and rebirth. A look at the past to look at today in a different way. The exhibition is free and will remain in the Salone degli Zavatteri (ground floor of the Basilica Palladiana) until Aug. 10. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Vicenza’s eastern ring road: third railway route favored for lower impact – June 21, Il Giornale di Vicenza
A new preferred option has emerged for the extension of Via Aldo Moro, part of Vicenza’s eastern ring road. This third alternative follows the railway line and is gaining favor due to its reduced environmental impact, especially compared to the previously proposed Anconetta and Ospedaletto routes. Presented during a meeting between Autostrada Brescia-Padova and the municipalities of Vicenza and Bolzano Vicentino, the proposal includes the relocation of the Vicenza Nord toll booth and improved integration with trains and metro buses to form an intermodal hub. The solution also envisions two new park-and-ride facilities supporting future metro and regional train services. A feasibility study analyzing traffic, costs and environmental effects is underway, with the project set to move to a technical and economic plan by the end of 2026. Final decisions will rest with local municipalities, and the project is scheduled for solicitation by 2027. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Longare unveils €2 million plan to revive town center with new piazza – June 20, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Longare is moving forward with a two-million-euro plan to create its first town square, aiming to revive the neglected historic center. Years after a link road cut it off from the Riviera Berica, the area has suffered from disuse and private disinvestment. The project—planned for completion in under two years—will redesign the space in front of the town hall with new walkways, greenery, a fountain and a playground. Mayor Matteo Zennaro calls it a turning point and urges residents to follow the municipality’s lead in restoring abandoned buildings to help bring new life to the heart of the town. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
McDonald’s speaks “vicentino” – McChicken hamburgers with Provolone made here – June 19, Il Giornale di Vicenza
McDonald’s is buying cheese from Vicenza, namely the Provolone Valpadana DOP from the Albiero dairy of Montorso. The new product, with a recipe that also includes crispy bacon and a special mayonnaise made with Caper from the Aeolian Islands DOP, is part of the McChicken Creation line; a line that confirms McDonald’s commitment to promoting the Italian agri-food chain and typical local products, from North to South. Now, the U.S. fast food giant will purchase 57 tons of Provolone Valpadana DOP from the Montorso company, which has its plant for cutting, packaging and storage in Lonigo. Provolone Valpadana DOP represents one of the flagship products for the company. Representatives of the company explained that, “It is a cheese that in the past was brought all over the world by Italian emigrants. So, today we export our product wherever there are Italian communities, from the United States to South America, all the way to Australia.” (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Swimsuit, umbrella and ticket: you can reach the beach by bus – June 5, Il Giornale di Vicenza
A direct line between Vicenza and the sea: from the beginning of June, the Adriatic beaches are reachable by bus thanks to the lines of SVT (Società Vicentina Trasporti), which will be active until Sept. 7. From Vicenza, there will be a daily service to the main seaside resorts of the Veneto. Every day, there is a departure from the bus station located in Viale Milano that heads straight towards Sottomarina, leaving in the morning at 7:50, and two for Lido di Jesolo at 7:10 or at 7:50. This second line also allows you to reach other locations including Eraclea; Porto Santa Margherita; Caorle; Bibione and Lignano Sabbiadoro, with a change in San Donà di Piave, active until Aug. 31. The expected duration of the journey to get to Sottomarina is two hours, with stops in Via Giuriolo; Corso Padova; Viale della Pace; Torri di Quartesolo; Settecà and Grisignano di Zocco; the same ones also planned for the bus route to Jesolo, also in two hours, with the change in San Donà di Piave scheduled for 8:45 a.m. In Jesolo you can get off at the bus station, or at the Villaggio Marzotto. After spending the day at the beach, it is possible to use the SVT service to return in the late afternoon. The departure time of the bus that returns to Vicenza is set for 6:10 p.m. from Sottomarina, for 5:50 p.m. from Villaggio Marzotto and for 6:05 p.m. from the station. Arrival in Vicenza is scheduled for 8 p.m. for those returning from the Chioggia coast, and at 8:10 p.m. for those returning from Jesolo. The price of the ticket, which can be purchased online on the SVT website, via the company App or at the ticket offices of the Vicenza station and at all SVT retailers, varies depending on the destination. For Sottomarina the fare is €8.40 per journey, while for Jesolo it is €10.40, the same as for Eraclea. To reach Porto Santa Margherita the cost is €11.70, € 12.60 for Caorle, €14.10 for Bibione and €15 for Lignano Sabbiadoro. Free bus ticket for children under four. The company website specifies that “in the event that all available seats on the outward or return journeys are sold out, a second journey is not guaranteed,” and therefore, especially on the busiest days, it is recommended to purchase the ticket in advance. (Summary by Laura Kreider)
New Debba Bridge, executive project presented – June 17, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The executive project for the construction of the new Debba Bridge was presented for approval June 16. This project takes into account the underground services, providing for the installation of a new aqueduct and the passage of the gas, energy and telecommunications networks along the bridge deck. It will have to be approved in the coming months by Viacqua Spa and V-Reti Spa. The new bridge, 313 meters long and divided into six spans, is part of a larger road axis of about 550 meters and will be built on a curve to cross the Bacchiglione River. The transition from the definitive project to the executive one also involves a higher cost forecast, going from the previous 13 million euros to the current 14.2 million euros. If all goes well, the work should begin next year and continue for two years. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
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)
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)
“Euro 5” diesel ban begins in October: two-thirds of vehicles affected – June 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)
Roadwork in progress along Viale Trissino – June 11, www.comunedivicenza.it
Some 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)
New cycle path coming soon along Bacchiglione River – June 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)
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)
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 China – April 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 management – April 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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