May 2021 G TUSCANY’S RAPEVINE

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The magazine for those who live in Tuscany – or wish they did

May 2021 € 2.90

Contents

Direttore ResponsabileGiuseppe Brandani

EditorNorma Jean Bishop

ContributorsHelen Askham

Chiara CalabreseClaudia Casoli

Lucia CostaClaudia De LucaJudith EdwardsThomas S. EnglandMaria Grazia FurnariFrancis PettittDonna Pilletere

Maria TsaousidouVannucci & AssociatiAnna Livia WalkerClaudio Zeppi

Marketing & Distribution

TechnicalSilvano Simi

Caterina BrigantiGiancarlo Buratti

Lea Codognato

Scuola Media A. CheliniAnne Shingleton

Alex GalliDiana GattiNicola Girolami

Tuscany’s Grapevine Magazine by Grapevine Editions

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© Tuscany’s Grapevine Magazine© What’s On In & Around

The listings published in Grapevine are taken from reliable sources and reproduced in good faith. However, to avoid disappointment, readers are advised to check information before setting off. Signed articles do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editor or of the Direttore Responsabile.

Cover:

Balestriere (Crossbowman)

in Piazza San Martino, Lucca

by Sheri Doyle

Art, Music, Books

Traditions & History

Reflections

Food & Drink

Gardens

Letters

Practical

Properties for Sale or Rent

Bilingual Crossword

Professionals, Classifieds

Stolen Kisses, Tournabuoni Arte 5

Portraits of Friends, Eli Benveniste in Pietrasanta 7

Book Review: A Tuscan Mystery by Richard Zahra 19

Florentine Banks and British Monarchs 8

Want some ketchup with that vaccine? 10

Biometrically Adjusted 21

Wines 20

Meatballs with Potatoes, Nonna’s Way 22

Armida’s Garden (23 May, National Garden Day) 14

Camelias in the Compitese 24

On Behalf of the Trees: Letters from Pietrasanta 16

Rifugio Mirtilla (Helping our Animal Friends) 18

Covid News 2

The Investor Visa 6

Sustainability Experts Meet Gaudats Junk Band 11

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Tuscany’s GRAPEVINE Magazine May 20212

COVID NEWS

Beginning 26 April, Italy became “yellow”. This means that we can move freely without certification forms, as long as we respect the 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew. We can eat and drink in open-air restaurants and bars, participate in open-air sports, visit museums and friends, and travel throughout Italy.

The exceptions are Sardinia, now a red (high risk) zone, and the orange zones of Valle d'Aosta, Sicily, Calabria, Basilicata, and Puglia. Travel to and from those areas is not permitted.

And shopping centers will remain closed until 15 May.

So yes, it's a celebration. But no, it's not a free for all. Remember to take your mask when you leave home. Better yet, don’t miss the chance to be vaccinated. Let’s hope the good trends continue!

Omar Galliani, born in Montecchio Emilia on 30 October 1954, graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Bologna, studying with Concetto Pozzati. He was invited to the first International Triennial of Design in Nuremberg in 1979, participated in three Venice Biennali (1982, 1984, 1986), and was invited to two Quadriennali in Rome (1986 and 1996). He was invited to the Paris Biennale in 1982, the Biennale di São Paulo of Brazil in 1981, and that of Tokyo again in 1981. In 1986, with the exhibition Aspetti dell'Arte Italiana, he exhibited at the Frankfurter Kunstverain, the Hannover Kunstmuseum, Breghenz Kunstverain, and at Vienna’s Hochschule fur Angewandre Kunst. New York University dedicated a solo show to him (1988). His first solo exhibition in China, at the Museum of the Central Academy of Fine Art, Aurea, was in 2000, followed in 2003 by the first Beijing Biennial, which he won jointly with George Baselitz. Later he was invited to the 2005 Biennale, continuing his Chinese tour in the cities of Shanghai, Chengdu, Suzhou, Dalian, Xian, Wuhan, Hangzhou, and Ningbo. In Venice in 2007 the exhibition Omar Galliani between East and West was held at the Querini Stampalia Foundation, a special event of the Biennale. In 2008, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence acquired his triptych Notturno for its collections. Uffizi director Eike Schmidt commissioned a self-portrait for the Vasari corridor collection; this was officially presented at the Vasari auditorium in 2018.

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his new exhibition by Omar Galliani at Tornabuoni Arte (from 13 May to 2 July) is a powerful expression of symbols, starting with the title Baci rubati / Covid 19, which brings back the terrible days of the first lockdown, days of isolation and T denied relationships. The city that the artist chose for his exhibition’s premier is

also symbolic: Florence, a city that embodies the Renaissance, which, with a lowercase r, is everyone's wish today.

Stolen kisses / Covid 19 proposes sixty drawings, composed as a fresco, Galliani recalls, between March and June 2020 when the lockdown distanced us. In breathless silence I searched for these images on the computer screen at home, recording with a still image the elements of this large mosaic drawn in pencil on canvas. They are the fragments of an orphaned daily life of lips and breath, of caresses not given or received, of a latent darkness that has imposed itself in our daily life in a silent dramatic crescendo.

Artistic creation was itself born as a substitute for reality. Starting from this assumption, Galliani took up not only the physiognomy of reality, but in particular the emotional inspiration beyond it. The artist highlighted the need and importance of recovering that dimension of human communion which becomes physical expression, a spontaneous and natural response to an urgency, to a state of necessity, when these requests are denied. Precisely this urgent need prompted the artist to search for visions that describe contacts, turning his attention to our contemporary windows overlooking the world, such as computer screens and various similar devices. The place of the ether, inhabited by multitudes of images, has contrasted, during this period of forced confinement, with the view from the windows of our houses, characterized by the deaf vision of absence pouring out onto empty streets.

The multiple identities described by the succession of drawings, says Sonia Zampini, were conceived by the artist to be read side by side, like a great overview that invests our gaze. The works are halfway between reality and desire, between will and impossibility. To better highlight this flow between two opposite conditions, Galliani, through the skilful use of graphite, has made the subjects evanescent to the eye, as if they were generated by the same ethereal nature of dreams.

The set of frames, revisited by the artist's hand, stages a dialectic of repetition, where nape, mouth, forehead, temple, and more, share the limit of their form when they come into contact with their alter ego next to them. This ideal succession in space and time, of a humanity spiritually united through the proximity of bodies, creates a contiguous and continuous visual condition that appears capable of emotionally rejecting detachment and distancing.

Now that the time of kisses and hugs is suspended between us and other desired bodies, where the skin and the time of caresses has been interrupted, in the breathless daily life of the images we look for a renewed caress that removes the time of absence and rediscovers the desire for each other, Galliani notes. He concludes his reflection with a wish that it is impossible not to share: Fiat Lux! (Sia luce, Let there be light.)

The exhibition is accompanied by a catalog with texts by Sonia Zampini, Omar Galliani, and Roberto Mussapi.

Baci Rubati, Stolen Kisses From 13 May to 2 July 2021 at Tornabuoni ArteLungarno Benvenuto Cellini 3, Firenze

5Tuscany’s GRAPEVINE Magazine May 2021Tuscany’s GRAPEVINE Magazine May 20214

Editorial

Dear Friends and Readers,

– Norma and the entire Grapevine Team

Our rainy April is drawing to a close, and

we sense a new openness, thanks surely to the

pause in Italy's lockdown (see page 2). It

seems as if Covid is moving, for now, to the

frontiers of our territory. On Monday, 26 May, we were

rejoicing this “yellow” period throughout most of Italy. Yet

how fleeting such joy can be. A month ago Sardinia was “white”,

free of contagion. Now it's high risk. Some have called the Covid-

induced restrictions “Fascist” but that seems terribly short-sighted

in light of the possible consequences. Most of us know someone

who has had Covid, or even loved ones who have died. We need to

stay vigilant. Recently I got vaccinated; you can read about this on

page 10 and I hope it gives you a chuckle. Staying at home for so

long, some of us have gotten used to it and are even making the

best of it. Henry David Thoreau said, Most of the luxuries and

many of the so-called comforts of life are not only not

indispensable, but positive hindrances to the elevation of mankind.

So true.

As I wrote this page, my talented friend Daniel L'Esperance sent me one of his witty drawings (image lower right). It harmonizes with my sentiments. We can receive Nature's bounties, but be surprised by hidden creatures, not all bad, yet showing that we are still in a strange territory, an unprecedented situation.

This month's articles reflect these ideas. Stolen Kisses (reminiscent of the film Cinema Paradiso) introduces an exhibition that packs an emotional punch. Florentine Bankers and British Monarchs reveals surprises from the Medici era. Vannucci Studio tells how to get a visa as an international investor in Italy, even now. In Biometrically Adjusted, Francis says that Brits in Italy must get themselves sorted. We can all enjoy adjusting ourselves with food and drink – to each their own – wines, marmite, meatballs anyone? Or enjoy sweet-scented pleasures not far from Lucca's historic center, at the Camelia festival or in a garden inspired by Torquato Tasso. As prelude to your Tuscan explorations, consider Richard Zahra's new novel, presented in these pages. Creativity abounds, for example in Eli Benveniste's amazing sculptures, and in the budding eco-journalists at Scuola Chelini. In harmony with their ecological themes, we also include letters on behalf of our trees and our animal friends. Hope you enjoy the reading!

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ortraits of my Friends (Ritratti dei miei amici ) is an inspiring display of remarkable sculptures on exhibit from 9 April to 2 P May 2021 at the Luigi Russo Cultural Center, Sala Delle Grasce,

Pietrasanta.

Eli Benveniste, a member of the Danish art group Koloristern, lives in Pietrasanta. She has said that she draws inspiration from cave paintings and swamp creatures. Married to the sculptor Jørgen Haugen Sørensen, Eli has reproduced the heads of many of her friends, modeling them from clay. She says that these were casual events, when my hands saw more than my eyes could observe at the moment (or sometimes vice versa).

Those immortalized in her works (2015-2021) include: German sculptor Georg Victor, Danish poet Peter Poulsen, American sculptor Ron Mehlman, Czech stone and glass sculptor Alena Matejka, museum director Lars Kærulf Møller, teacher Caterina Belle, photographer Raffaello Bassotto, Danish film producer Dino Raymond Hansen, Veronese painter Giovanni Meloni, contemporary textile artist Trine Ellitsgaard, Danish poet Henrik Norbrandt (with and without donkey ears as Henrik wanted), husband Jørgen Haugen Sørensen (asleep in a chair), Danish cinema and film industry administrator Henning Camre, Legal Affairs Consultant Regitze Oppenhejm, Danish poet and translator Thomas Boberg (son of the poet Jørgen Boberg), Cher Lewis of Pietrasanta, crying boy Matthias Grünewald Tegning, and photographer Patricia Franceschetti.

Some of these individuals – or should we say their anime, their features melded into clay – are shown on this page. Although the exhibition has been scheduled to end on May 2nd, Eli can also be contacted through her web pages,

These and more images can also be seen at the website of the Museo dei Bozzetti (Pietrasanta).

http://www.elibenveniste.com/video and https://www.facebook.com/elibenveniste.

An Exhibition in PietrasantaPortraits of my Friends


taly is recognized worldwide as one of the best countries in shrewdness of staying in Italy for a period superior to half of the which to live. Just think of the many UNESCO world heritage period of validity of the permit to stay.I sites, the marvelous artistic and natural sites, and all the The Investor Visa, besides, permits you to carry out work

products of excellence that contribute to making the “made in activity on Italian soil.Italy” brands among the most appreciated and desirable in the The above-cited benefits can be extended to the beneficiary's world. family members (spouse, minor children, dependent adult

A recent survey by USNews confirms that Italy, besides being children, dependent parents).an excellent place in which to live, is also a perfect place in which to invest. The procedure for obtaining the Investment Visa

In fact, thanks to excellent know-how in sectors such as fashion, technology, industrial machinery, and food and biological products, The procedure for obtaining the Investment Visa is explained Italy is placed in sixth place in the classification of best countries for step by step at the website of the Ministry of Economic capital investment. The classification was drawn up on the basis of Development. This can be synthesized in two parts:eight parameters, considered in equal measure: corruption, 1. Obtaining the Nulla Osta (authorization) for release of the dynamics, economic stability, entrepreneurialism, favorable fiscal visa;regime, presence of an innovative and qualified labor force, and 2. Granting of the Investor Visa and entrance into Italy.technological competence. In Tuscany alone, there are more than 500 established multinationals in the region; 420 of these are 1) Nulla Osta (Authorization)foreigners. The request for authorization for granting of the visa should be

So if you are a non-EU citizen who wishes to live and invest in sent online through the appropriate channel made available by the Italy, the Investor Visa is an opportunity that you should know about. MISE. To complete this centralized and completely digitized

procedure, it is necessary to supply a series of information and What is the Investor Visa? documents, including indication of the type of investment that the

applicant intends to make and attesting to the legitimacy and This is a visa for foreign investors, whose regulation was ownership of the amounts allocated for this purpose.

introduced in our statues with the 2017 Budgetary Law, inserted Once the documentation has been submitted, after a into the Single Text on Immigration, article 26-bis (modified preliminary formal control by the Committee Secretary, the subsequently by D.L. 34/2020). members of the Investor Visa Committee meet to evaluate the

conformity of the request for authorization to the requirements How much to Invest established by law. The outcome of the evaluation is

communicated within 30 days, and in the case of a favorable In order to increase its ability to attract investments into the outcome, the formal visa authorization is granted.

country, Italy allows release of a two-year renewable visa for non-EU citizens who make: 2) Granting of the Investor Visa and entrance into Italy�An investment of at least 2,000,000 euros in Italian securities; Once authorization has been obtained, the applicant has six �A philanthropic donation of at least 1,000,000 euros to months of time in which to request granting of the visa, at the

support a project of public interest, in the sectors of culture, Italian Embassy or Consulate of their country of origin.instruction, management of immigration, scientific research, The Embassy or Consulate, having carried out the required and restoration of cultural or landscape heritage. investigation, will then grant the visa for entrance for investors,

As an alternative to these requirements, it is possible to invest with a duration of 2 years. This can be renewed for another 3 years, in instruments representing a business' capital. The amount has upon request made at the competent police headquarters at least 60 been reduced to half by the Relaunch Decree (D.L. 34/2020) and days before the permit to stay expires.currently amounts to: Within 8 days of arrival in Italy, the foreign citizen is required �500,000 euros for quoted or non-quoted capital corporations to present the request for the Investor Visa permit to stay to the

set up and operating in Italy; police headquarters where they are living, along with the necessary administrative documentation.�250,000 euros for innovative start-ups set up and operating in

Finally, the applicant must make the previously-Italy.communicated investment within 3 months of the date of entrance, With l. n. 190/2020, the possibility of receiving the visa is also otherwise the procedure will be nullified.extended to legal representatives of non-EU legal entities

carrying out one of the above-mentioned investments.

What we can doDuration of the Visa

Our studio, MGI Vannucci & Associati, thanks to experience Unlike the tourism visa and the visa for business or work- developed in this sector and our collaboration with legal studios

related travel, the Investor Visa has an initial duration of 2 years, specialized in the such mattters, is ready to support you in carrying which can be extended for another 3 years when it expires. It is also out the procedure for obtaining the Investor Visa:possible to convert it into an EU permit to stay for a long period, once 5 years have passed from the time it was first released, on the �Completing the forms on the MISE channel on your behalf, in condition that the investment is maintained. order to obtain permission for release of the visa.

This visa allows travel to other European Union countries and �Helping you choose the best possible investment. Among stays of up to 90 days every 6 months, allowing you to continue to other things, we specialize in Startups and Innovative PMIs, live and work in your own country of origin and guaranteeing and in this area we can boast of a partnership with a Certified maximum freedom of movement, thanks to the possibility of Incubator.entering and staying in Italy as often as you wish. If the applicant �Assisting you in carrying out all the successive steps for wants to renew the visa when it expires, it is sufficient to have the obtaining authorization.

The Investor Visa

The Banco Medici was founded in 1397 by Giovanni Bicci de' thread, and on the way back they filled galleys with wool. Loans in Medici and lasted for about a hundred years, until 1494. Its this form, if moderate in amount, were relatively dangerous, but it Florentine headquarters were in the palazzo Medici (now Medici was unsafe to lend large sums if not tightly secured. When the War Riccardi). In the course of time, its branches expanded to important of the Roses broke out with new fury, the King requested more and Italian cities like Venice, Milan, Rome, and Naples; and in European more loans, sunk deeper into debt, and on 30 August 1471 cities like Geneva, Avignon, Lyon, Basel, Bruges, and of course acknowledged a debt with the Medici Bank of £6,600. Shortly London. In the fifteenth century, London was far from having the after, the London branch of the Medici bank closed with an economic power that it has today. However, the Medici had unsolved debt on the part of the King. The Bruges branch took over extensive business interests in England since the 1420s, and a the London business including passive assets which, for a total of London branch was established in London in 1446. The results were 51,533 florins, were impossible to cover and therefore caused also very encouraging until the War of the Roses broke out. The conflict the collapse of that branch.between the houses of Lancaster and York lasted from 1455 to 1485. When we think of the Medici, we think of the Renaissance and Once again, a British war and monarch got in the way. The stage was the fundamental role they played as political figures and patrons of set for the tragedy of the London branch of the Medici Bank. letters and fine arts. We hardly ever think of them as bankers.

England's licences for wool export were difficult to get. They However, it was thanks to their economic power, to their activity were only obtained by granting loans to the King, who repaid them as bankers and traders, that they possessed the financial power to by granting permission to export wool sacks free from all customs promote humanism, and to commission the extraordinary works of and subsidies. As the War of the Roses broke out, Edward IV's art and architecture that we can still admire today. Having said request for loans became more pressing. It was impossible to refuse that, in times of Brexit calculations, shouldn't the British return the the King's requests because courts were major outlets for the luxury golden florins they owe to the city of Florence?products in which merchant bankers were dealing. They brought to

– by Chiara CalabreseEngland papal alum and some luxuries such as brocades and gold

Pictured here, Florin 1340

On one side, the inscription FLOR-ENTIA and the image of the Florentine lily. On the other side, the inscription S. IOHA-NNES.B and the image of Saint John the Baptist (patron Saint of Florence), with three half-moons ( the coin minter’s symbol).

The golden florin, coined in Florence in 1252, was made of 24 carat gold. It had a diameter of 20-21 mm and weighed between 3.46 and 3.53 grams. Today's 24 carat gold per gram rate is approximately 44 euros, which would mean 154 euros per florin in terms of raw matter. But we must bear in mind that in those days the value of the golden florin was far more than that, because it was the leading economic instrument of the entire commercial world, with an incredibly high purchasing power.

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THE

GOLDEN

FLORIN


n an era dominated by finance, by banking systems controlling the world of economy, and politics, we have lost sight of how it all began. According to Raymond De I Roover

rd of the European population.Nevertheless, the downfall was followed by a new birth. The

best customer of the Italian banking and mercantile companies was the Church, and after the Bardi, the Peruzzi, and the Acciaiuoli went bankrupt, the Pope had difficulty in finding a bank that could offer him the same facilities for the transfer of papal revenues and subsidies. It was eventually the Alberti, once again a Florentine firm, that succeeded in capturing the papal business first. Later on, when the Alberti company started to split up in several companies, due to family rivalries, the Medici, the Pazzi, the Rucellai, and the Strozzi took over. However, the Medici finally managed to overshadow the other three.

the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453). Apparently, he had borrowed 600,000 golden florins from the Peruzzi and 900,000 from the Bardi. They were huge amounts of money for those

, economic historian of medieval and Renaissance times. Raymond De Roover says that Edward III owed them the Europe, the roots of modern capitalism are to be found in Italy value of a realm. What happened was that he decided not to repay during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Ever since the his debt! This led to the collapse of the two banks and the Middle Ages the Italians were principal merchants and bankers bankruptcy of a long series of small investors. In a few months, the with a superior business organisation, and they laid the Florence Commune also went through a financial crisis, incapable foundations for most of the business institutions today. For of paying the loans it had granted to its citizens. To make things almost all of the thirteenth century, Siena was the main banking worse, in 1348 the great pandemic of the time arrived, the Black centre in Europe (its close rival was another Italian city, Death, wiping out one thiPiacenza). When Siena's largest bank failed, in 1298, Florence became the leading European banking place and remained such for the following two centuries. It will be interesting to see how British monarchs sometimes got in the way, making things difficult.

The Bardi, the Peruzzi, and the Acciaiuoli were the most powerful Florentine companies (or banks) from 1300 until 1345, the year when they collapsed. The crash was primarily caused by excessive loans to sovereigns, especially to King Edward III of England. The king had borrowed money from the Bardi and the Peruzzi to finance a long and unsuccessful war against France,

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Florentine Banks and British Monarchs How British rulers' unpaid debts led to the crash of Florentine banks

Palazzo Medici was the headquarters of the Medici bank.

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t Lucca's Chelini middle school professors and students continue to innovate. After A their publication in La

Nazione last month (see Grapevine April 2021 article Walk, Cycle, Save, Breathe), they have prepared a new project, published in La Nazione on 23 April.

Increasingly aware of the risk of destruction of the atmosphere, the students are engaged in a project of Eco-sostenibilità, under the direction of Professor Furnari (English) and together with Professors La Spina for Technology, Marinucci for Geography, Mignardi for Science, Ghiri for Art, Grida for Sports, Scapecchi as assistant teacher, and myself.

Preparing their research for publication and by their friend Ercolini, make their in La Nazione, they invited three experts to instruments from recycled materials. an online “meet-up” presentation for the Unable to play together due to Covid school: At 9.15 a.m. there was Rossano restrictions, the band has been looking Ercolini (from Capannori, internationally forward to future opportunities. Their song recognized as President of Zero Waste and Economia Circolare, has even caught the

Che c'ha la quinta elementare coordinator of Centro di Ricerca Rifiuti attention of Elio e le Storie Tese.Economia circolare Zero), then at 10.15 Martino Kuntze from Smettila di consumare Blue Eco Line (a Florentine start-up project As for the students, they are budding Che la coperta è corta to clean the rivers) and at 11.15 Gaudats journalists who want to save the world!Ma la possiamo allungare Junk Band, conceived by Daniele Guidotti, Va bene ci siamo sbagliati a fun band dedicated to recycling. – by Anna-Livia WalkerMa adesso l'abbiamo capita Lots of good ideas: Ercolini has created Si tratta di recuperare a Covid mask that can be reused 250 times. Che non esiste risorsa infinita How is this possible? Thanks to a small Economia Circolare

disposable insert like a pocket inside the E non mi aspetto che arrivi il governo Gira il sistema solare mask. Blue Eco Line has found ways to drag E non mi aspetto che venga Salvini Come la ruota di una bicicletta out plastic from rivers. Gaudats Junk Band La situazione cambia dal tuo interno

(represented by Daniele Guidotti and drum Intanto smetto di andare di fretta Non da stamani cari ragazzini player Matteo Sodini), a group of Capannori E butto manciate di sale Potevo parlare di calcio musicians inspired by environmental issues Sulle ferite di un'economia Di dove è andato Cristiano Ronaldo

Che dammi retta no non è una retta Ma vedo troppi palloni bucati Che dammi retta, che se è circolare Abbandonati su mari cobalto Toglie la plastica pure dal mare Potevo parlare di noi Potersi rigenerare Delle bellezze che abbiamo davanti Riuscire finalmente a cambiare Ma non lo vedi nei supermercati Con il vento posso illuminare Montagne e montagne di avanzi Ogni secondo di vita sprecata Economia circolare Ogni goccina di acqua perduta Non è difficile da realizzare La sigaretta lasciata per strada Sai lo faceva mia nonna Ha fatto spazio a una nuova veduta Che c'ha la quinta elementare Ha fatto spazio a una nuova veduta Economia circolare Ieri mi sentivo diversa Smettila di consumare Ho cominciato una trasformazione Che la coperta è corta Sono partita che ero solo terra Ma la possiamo allungare E dopo sono diventata sole Mira lo que hago escuchas lo que digo E ancora acqua ed ho annaffiato un Hay delfines abrazados con pañales lines fiore Escuchas lo que digo mira lo que hago Di nuovo vento ed ho scaldato per ore Hay tortugas que se mueren con un trago Come un satellite che gira in tondo Get up y'all on your bike and ride La soluzione per questo mondo Stop creatin trash and recycle worldwide Economia circolare We can clean up the sea, clean up the sky Non è difficile da realizzare Just get it together Sai lo faceva mia nonna and give a damn good try

2021 STUDENT REPORTERS

The Chelini team and

their teacher-tutors:

The students: Marta Augusto, Gioele

Barsocchini, Andrea Cappetta, Viola

Di Gino Puccetti, Emily Franceschini,

Alice Gaddini, Giacomo Galli,

Gabriele Giambastiani, Marina

Gianmalva, Martina Grassi, Sara

Ismailaj, Cristian Landi, Manuel

Landi, Gabriele Lippi, Matteo

Lunardi, Blanca Martini, Cristian

Monzillo, Tommaso Nardi, Alessio

Pardini, Francesco Rabushja,

Cristina Ricci, Fabio Romani,

Michele Sciotti, Francesco Sodini,

Gioele Vannucci.

Teacher-tutors: Maria Grazia

Furnari, Giacomo Ghiri, Laura Grida,

Vito La Spina, Caterina Marinucci,

Martina Mignardi, Francesco

Scapecchi, Anna Livia Walker, Gemma

Di Clemente.

Headmaster: Giovanni Testa

Sustainability ExpertsMeet Gaudats Junk Band


Want some ketchup with that vaccine? veryone I know has been

waiting a long time to get vaccinated – except for those E who don't believe in vaccines,

or are scared of them. I understand scared. My approach to a needle is to look away and breathe deeply and slowly, and I chose not to fixate on postulated Astrazeneca-induced thrombosis or to imagine my own demise. Side effects, no thanks! When I finally got stuck, I didn't feel a thing. In fact, once we got home, my family studied the particular point in my arm with a magnifying glass but couldn't find even the tiniest mark (is that a freckle? they asked me). Next day, happily I had a few aches, easily cured with an Ibuprofen.

I'm not famous for my wit, but when we found opening slots for vaccines on Easter Day at Marina di Carrara, I said, That's it, we're going to the beach! I know we can't leave our region, but surely we can go for a vaccine? Why go so far? asked Silvano. Because there are no spaces anywhere else, and the sea air is always a good idea, I replied. Besides, it's Easter!

With daughter Anna driving, our anxiety level was much lower. We knew that if we felt faint or nauseous, we had someone there to take care of us. On the way to Carrara we passed a strange beachfront snack shop. I asked Anna if we could stop there on our way back. (Being We assumed that McLouis had long quirky is one of the joys of aging.) been abandoned, but a follow-up internet

McLouis (or you can call it Anguria- search showed that it's alive and well, mania, Watermelon crazy, as the sign serving up food to mixed reviews (no below says) certainly has seen better days. surprise: the Italian critics prefer the Its reds are faded and its wooden benches porchetta sandwich to the hamburger). have been peeling for eons. Once we finished the comic-tragic Overtaken by the spirit of the day, unable to sit down indoors vaccination experience (more like a non-experience, disappointing due to lockdown, and in honor of our vaccination, Anna rolled up to in its administrative way, despite courteous doctors and earnest the nearest McDonalds window for Easter dinner. Fries, vanilla helpers), we went back to photograph this beachfront relic. Next shake, and vaccines – what more could a person want? time you’re heading north along the coast on a train, look to your We'll be back! Thanks, Team Carrara!right (the mountains), instead of to your left (the seaside). Quick! It's just a meter or two from the train. Blink and it's gone. – by Norma Jean Bishop


IN THE HILLSPROPERTIES FOR SALE by ownerFor more information: [email protected]

Bagni di Lucca Villa

Spacious workshop for creative projects (former photographer's studio), with luminous indoor/outdoor spaces. Covered terrace for outdoor meals or projects. Adjacent to this a 110sqm first-floor apartment on the main street of town. Purchase one or both spaces. €330,000 total: €220,000 workshop, €110,000 apartment. (Ref. 1227)

COLOGNORA (UNESCO Village)

Beautifully restored home located in the middle of a friendly mountain village. Two bedrooms, one bathroom, large new kitchen, two living room areas, two fireplaces, and private garden. Chestnut beams and terra cotta floors. Only € 85,000. (Ref. 1232)

Near Pescaglia/Loppeglia

Charming country house facing west (towards the sea). 130 mq. Plus adjacent house requiring complete restoration, also 130 mq. Each house has 3-4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 fireplaces. €170,000 for both. (Estimate €75,000+ for restoration). (Ref. 1243)

Bagni di Lucca. lovely modern apartment,

ground floor, with parking space, garden. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, living/dining/kitchen, storage room. approx. 70sqm. €142,000. Tel. 320 0879190. (Ref. 1237)

Enchanting country home

700m from hill village with shop, restaurants near Bagni di Lucca, on a bus line, 40 minutes from Lucca, ideal for families, remote work-ers, artists, B&B, 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, fast Wifi, great kitchen. Restored with maximum respect for local aesthetics. Swimming pool (10x5) with solar panels, beautiful gardens, 1 hectare, olive grove. Spectacular views over Apuan Alps. €785,000. (Ref. 1252)

RIVERFRONT PROPERTY Ideal for fishermen & bathers, facing the Serchio River at the foot of the Brancoli hills. Early 1900s estate with traditional tile & parquet floors, fitted kitchen, marble stairs, wooden railings, etc. Can be a single home (5-6 bedrooms, 4 baths, 3 floors) or 2 apartments (total 408 sqm). The large garden with trees & olives is bounded by a mule track & old stone wall. Terrace near the kitchen, ideal for dining al fresco. The house is separated from the road by a secure gate. Parking for 4-5 cars inside the property & along the river. € 370,000 negotiable. (Ref. 1179)

Near PescagliaRegional Park 950mIn the Alpi Apuane . alt.,

approx. 35-40 km from Lucca. Fantastic views to Livorno & Tuscan islands, trails all around. Rebuilt house with 4 entrances, to be com-pleted to your taste. Fine stonework, wooden floors, beams, panoramic picture windows. Partially habitable, potentially 4 independent units. €210,000. (Ref. 1261)

Albiano (near Barga). Independent apartment (approx. 150sqm) with panoramic garden & terrace (50sqm, On two floors: entrance hall, living room, dining room, kitchen/dining room on ground floor. 3 bedrooms on 1st floor. Bathroom with bathtub. Oil fired central heating (boiler installed in 2014). Double glazed windows with aluminum shutters. Energy Rating: G. Bus stop @ 40mt, train station @ 5 km, post office @ 4.5 km, news agent @ 4.5 km, café/restaurant @ 50mt. Price € 165,000. (Ref. 1188)

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Also visible at

www.luccagrapevine.com

For more information: [email protected]

500M FROM

LIDO DI CAMAIORE BEACH

Large home (240 sqm) with garden. 4 bed-rooms, 3 baths. Fully equipped kitchen. Wrap-around terrace at 1st floor. Garage. APE Cl. G. €580,000. (Ref. 1194)

Between Lucca and Pisa

Enchanting 18th century villa that sleeps 14 (8 bedrooms with A/C, 6 bathrooms). Already booked by seasonal renters for much of the summer. In its 2 hectares of beautiful gardens & forests you will find a gazebo, green-house, swimming pool, rare plants, even parrots! Conveniently located in a quiet village just a short bike ride from the sea. Buses pass the gates hourly. APE Cl. G. 3.5 million euros. (Ref. 1197)

In the heart of Lucca, 2 elegant top-floor (70 steps up) apartments originally from the 1600s with many beautiful features such as tiled (Tessieri) or terracotta floors, 4m ceilings, some frescoed ceilings, skylights exposed beams, open fireplace, windows looking over Via Fillungo & towards Torre delle Ore. The apartments have been merged into one, but they can easily be restored to their original situation, with separate entrances. Each would then have 1-2 bedrooms, bath, living & large kitchen (approx. 110sqm x 2, 220sqm total). €410,000 each, must be purchased together. Ideal for friends or family wanting 2 adjacent apartments or rental apartment. (Ref. 1184)

Office space that can be changed into an apartment. Three rooms on the ground floor of an historic building in Lucca Centro

Storico. €130,000. (Ref. 1241)

Lucca, outside Porta Elisa

Spacious first-floor apartment (120 sqm, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths) with terrace. Very convenient to the city center. €230,000. (Ref. 1242)

LUCCA CENTRO STORICO

Spacious, traditional first floor apartment on a quiet street near Piazzale Verdi. 5 rooms plus bath, terrace, garage. A/C kitchen. 110+35 sqm. €282,000. (Ref. 1247)APE Cl. G.

PROPERTIES FOR SALE OR RENT by owner


Massarosa, near Massaciuccoli

Spacious townhouse of c.240 sqm, on 3 floors: 1st - entrance hall, parlor, kitchen, garage. 2nd - 3 bedrooms + bath. 3rd - unfinished 3 rooms with beams, nice potential. Large garage + parking for 2 cars, which could also serve as private patio. No garden. €180,000. Energy category G. (Ref. 1255)

Capannori, 5 km to Lucca Centro

Beautiful gated family home with 2 kitchens, 4 bathrooms, 6-7 bedrooms, 300 sqm total. In traditional Tuscan style with solar panels, wood & gas burning fireplace, A/C, veranda shading the home in summer. On a quiet coun-try road with views in all directions. This could be the ideal home for an extended family, small farm, or hospitality project. APE Cl. D. € 390,000. (Ref.1228)

RENTAL

WANTED

for 2 months (between July-August-September-October),

2 bedrooms for 2 individuals,

in a calm yet convenient position for walking to shops,

restaurants, train station. Garden appreciated.

Contact Grapevine.

site and furnished with antiques Quosa at the base of the hills that separate and collections of all kinds in the Lucca and Pisa, a few kilometers from both colder months hosts numerous historic cities. Open on request to guided

exotic species such as cacti, insectivorous tours. Also this year, Sunday 23 May it will plants, orchids, proteas, tillandsias, be open to the public for the national event platycerium, and bougainvillea. On the Cortili e Giardini Aperti.sides of the lawn are collections of ancient scented roses, Austin roses, majestic Villa Anna Maria de' Lanfranchi camellias, oleanders, and collections of – Garden of Armida – hydrangeas, peonies and hellebores. The Strada Statale dell'Abetone, 146final part of the restoration involved the 56017 Molina di Quosa (Pisa)care of the large palm trees (over 80) – such Claudio 328 2334450as Phoenix, Washingtonia, Butia, Attalea, Maria Grazia 335 298433and the delicate Erythea – which, at the www.villaannamaria.comentrance, introduce the park beyond.

Furthermore, there are no mosquitoes in the garden thanks to a Freezanz biological system which, through small and discreet nozzles, nebulizes the entire area at certain intervals with a mixture of water and pyrethrum, harmless to humans and animals.

The Villa is part of the Italian Historic Houses Association and the Parks and Gardens of Italy Association and is located in the center of the village of Molina di


magnolias, camellias, bamboos , cedars of Lebanon, sequoias, and araucaria were planted near medicinal herbs .

During the two world wars the Villa was used as a military base and

few kilometers from Lucca along the ancient Via therefore the garden was Julia and Via Aemilia Scauri, known as the Silk abandoned. When at the Road, there is an intriguing botanical end of the 80s the current A garden that frames the seventeenth- owners Claudio Zeppi and Maria Grazia Deffenu

century Villa Anna Maria de' Lanfranchi: the Garden bought the property, the wood and the bamboo grove of Armida, locus amoenus in which the luxuriance of had taken over and reached the house. Then began a the plants translates into a proliferation of visual, long and meticulous restoration work that lasted auditory, olfactory perceptions, a hedonistic about five years, bringing to light the frescoes of the parenthesis of pagan paradise made on purpose to Villa and the ancient marble fireplaces, cleaning the disturb the world of self-awareness. wood, recovering the most important plants and

Armida is the charming sorceress who in trees (some are 300 years old), containing the TorquatoTasso's Gerusalemme Liberata holds the bamboo rhizomes with iron plates stuck in the crusader knight Rinaldo prisoner in her palace. ground, and recovering an ancient greenhouse that Inside the palace there is an enchanted and artifact leaning against the back facade gave life to a garden, where only with a glance you can embrace delightful winter garden intended to house the most lakes, small rivers, flowers, and fruits that last delicate plants. The vision of the confused and forever and sprout among the newly born or already confusing romantic garden, tired and tiring, was yellowed leaves. gradually implemented with rare camellias, palms,

And it is from the garden of Armida that the mimosas, wisteria, ancient roses, etc. Also included landscape doctor Cesare Studiati in the mid- in the garden were a fish pond with a black bottom nineteenth century drew inspiration to redesign the with edges of pietra serena, which is used as a estate of the country villa of Anna Maria Franceschi Rosselmini swimming pool, and next to it was placed a nineteenth-century intended to welcome Grand Tour's vacationers (Shelley and his newspaper kiosk coming from Piazza dei Cavalieri in Pisa.wife Mary, Lord Byron, Alfieri, etc.) who frequented the nearby In the center of the lawn, an eighteenth-century belvedere with Royal Baths of San Giuliano. In the garden, geometrically divided circular seats in pietra serena covered by an iron treillage dressed as with belvedere, Mediterranean shrubs, jasmine, clematis, roses, Pandorea and surrounded by roses, bergenias, irises, hydrangeas, peonies, and even exotic plants such as palm trees, banana trees, wisteria, and lavenders. The greenhouse relocated to the original

The Garden of Armida

removed by administrative decisions, such as the trees in reference at all to the local population, which is extraordinary Piazza G. Carducci that were felled without first warning the given that it will have such a profound impact on the town.community that this would happen.

We note with deep bitterness and regret that this is, Now, again without communicating to the citizens, at least unfortunately, only the latest and perhaps the most devastating

17 trees, showing no signs of disease, are under threat. of many questionable decisions implemented over the course of the last thirty years by the town council of Pietrasanta. The

Citizens have the right to be informed. For this we are terrible interventions of the 1990s come immediately to mind:

disappointed, sad, and we see how much our opinion has no Viale dei Frari, for example, where stone and marble dominate

value and how much our voice is not heard, despite the protests supreme at the expense of small, shrivelled trees which are

in the streets and the petition with over 4000 signatures.nothing more than dubious decorative elements incapable of

We wonder why, if the area with land in front of the bank casting even a little shade. Our politicians have bequeathed us needs to be redeveloped, not to use a type of flooring that lets another woeful example by cementing over a large piece of rainwater pass so that the trees can stay where they are and land in the Ponte Nuovo area, where we now find only huge, continue to provide essential shade. Why cover the earth with half-abandoned warehouses.asphalt?

There are those who have excelled by their absence, which We find it sad that, with so many places in Pietrasanta that bizarrely enough could be seen as positive, given that they

need redevelopment, the Municipality has not thought of a limited themselves to making some questionable changes which project such as a city park with trees and sculptures by the have affected the architectural landscape of the town. But today artists and craftsmen who live in Pietrasanta. Instead it has they are still singing the same tune, and indeed want to go chosen to drastically modify a square, cutting down old trees in further, re-launching and 'redeveloping' Piazza Carducci, a public historical area to accommodate only a single where the few remaining trees are razed to the ground, which is sculpture. then covered in asphalt.

Sadly and sincerely, The same thing is happening in Piazza Statuto, all with the ~ The Artists and Artisans of Pietrasanta blessing of the Superintendence of Fine Arts, which seems,

sadly, to supervise nothing at all. In short, the last thirty years A list of the 85 names can be provided.

have seen the systematic destruction of greenery in favour ofconcrete and asphalt, making Pietrasanta unliveable for its

THE SLEEP OF REASON… residents and turning it more and more into a dormitory town for the benefit of more or less occasional tourism.

Over the past few days we have been horrified to witness yet another massacre in Pietrasanta, this time to the detriment Unfortunately we must note that whatever colour our of Piazza Statuto. The supposed aim is to create a 'pathway' political class, it is no longer capable of wise management of connecting a tourist information kiosk to a fountain, the work of its territory, sequestered as it is in its Palazzo, closed off from a well-known artist. No better way of doing this has been found any discussion or debate with citizens, and hence unable to than to cut down as many as twenty four perfectly healthy grasp the strength of feeling here.ancient trees, to be partly replaced with a stretch of concrete

Faced with this moral squalor, this sleep of reason, we free and ten saplings.

and willing citizens may be powerless, but our conscience It should be noted that the project speaks of a 'First stage', dictates that we cannot remain indifferent. A (growing) list of at

which presupposes the complete wreckage of the square. It is least 40 names of people who support this letter can be hard to understand the sense of this absurd operation, which provided.has been initiated more or less behind everybody's back, with no – Giancarlo Buratti

Serena Ratti in a tree, photo by Patti Franceschetti


Phase 3 Phase 4Dear Norma Bishop,

I was given your name and number by fellow artist Delfina Nahrgang.

You are probably aware of the protest against the latest project of the Comune di Pietrasanta led by the mayor.

The plan is to cut down one of the trees that surround the Piazza Statuto (Market square) and put a new line of younger trees and asphalt the ground to make a pathway towards a new fountain sculpture at the back wall. Some of the trees to be cut down were planted in 1910, and provide shade and seem perfectly healthy. The cutting has already started unfortunately.

The government have conceded to reduce the number to be felled, but the whole project of laying asphalt and cutting down has not be stopped. There are future projects too we understand to cut the rest of the trees.

Many Pietrasantini are horrified that what has been left of the green in the city is now due to go too. The comune have been unhelpful and certainly have not been transparent.

Unfortunately those in government in smaller cities everywhere need to be encouraged to step up to the urgent sensitivity towards conserving our planet for future generations.

I include two letters: The first is supported by 85 artists and artisans who work or have worked in Pietrasanta. The second is by an Italian artist who is well respected in the community. There are about 40 people that support his letter too. (It is difficult at short notice to get a long list of names.)

It would be very helpful to our cause if you could publish these letters.

Thank you so much, Anne Shingleton

FROM THE ARTISTS AND ARTISANS OF PIETRASANTA

April 22, 2021

To the Mayor,To the President of the Town Council,

and p.c. of the Group Leaders

This is from the artists and artisans who work and live here in Pietrasanta. We would like to let you know that we are against the felling of trees in Piazza Statuto.

This important group in society represents the backbone of why Pietrasanta has become famous as a Town of Art, Little Athens as it is often called. Artists, not only foreigners, but also Italian artists, have chosen to live in Pietrasanta because the row skills and expertise in the field of art, for which Pietrasanta is rightly famous in the world, are handed down from generation to generation.

Among the artists and craftsmen there is both sensitivity towards beauty and an appreciation for aesthetics and respect for the art not only of other artists, but also for the art of nature.

In fact, nature is the foundation of art. This is our opinion: we kindly ask you to listen to us.

A tree is a work of art by nature itself! A sculpture is created by a human being, a tree is more - MUCH more - because a work created by nature.

Furthermore, a tree is an important ecosystem. A whole life cycle works around a tree: from the roots, to the moss on the bark, to insects, birds, etc. etc. ... In winter, the tree heats the air and the earth around it, in summer it cools it. They create essential shade for people and animals, and unfortunately in Pietrasanta this is the only place in the historic center where you can sit under a tree. They are precious and need to be protected and cared for, as is happening in other European cities.

All of this must be taken into consideration before threatening this precious natural heritage planted for a reason by our ancestors.

Adult trees complement the architecture and urban landscape, and are important for the character and for the aesthetics and environment of the city.

Unfortunately Pietrasanta is losing many trees, such as palm trees, due to the red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus

(The photo and poster above are by Anne Shingleton.) ferrugineus). And sadly, many trees and shrubs have been


On Behalf of the Trees Letters from Pietrasanta

y Way of the Valley is a novel written by Richard Zahra, a journalist specialized in Italian tourism. Set in Tuscany, more precisely in the Cortona and Castiglion Fiorentino areas, the B book is naturally inspired by this environment, especially the Val

di Chiana (south of Florence), but to Zahra’s merit, not overwhelmed by it.The story begins in Malta, where the protagonist, Duncan, is a

teacher in an international school.

Due to cronyism in the school administration, Duncan loses his job after 20 years at the same school, and the very same day, receives divorce papers from his wife.

What would you do in such circumstances? Would you make a safe choice or take a risk? Duncan receives a curious message from an unknown person, which sets him off on a quest that will change his life forever.

The author wisely uses the form of the quest (hints of Dan Brown and Star Wars) and makes references to contemporary society, quite in character for Duncan whose background is in literature. Trying to find out what happened to his recently-deceased mentor, Duncan learns a lot about himself along the way.

The book's plot is very engaging and the adventures take us to curious places, some familiar, others not at all. The hero's self-identity changes. To say much more would be to ruin the surprises along the way.

You can order Richard Zahra's book from Amazon in either online or print form.

For the past fifteen years, my life had been a slow shuffle along a barren landscape. I was constantly thirsty for a sip of happiness; in great need of a rest from the churning routine that controlled my existence. I was not sure how that clockwork ticking had gradually crept into my life. I only knew for certain that by the time it had gained a foothold, I was too caught in its hypnotic tick-tock to remember how life had progressed without it.

Book Review

Across1 Amò Turandot (5)4 Caratteristica (5)7 Where Puccini’s Fanciulla

comes from (4)8 Puccini’s Mimi (2,6)9 Also known as Napoleon

Square (6,6)10 Ingiusto (6)13 Opere (6)15 Amò Des Grieux (5,7)19 Demolish (8)20 Puccini’s Angelica (4)21 Palcoscenico (5)22 Puccini’s Floria (5)

Down1 Coeval m.pl. (5)2 Letitia, gladness (7)3 False f.sg. (5)4 Puccini’s Cloak (7)5 Cinereo (5)6 A painting medium (7)11 Numeri (7)12 Puccini’s Swallow (7)14 Scuse (7)16 Daughter-in-law (5)17 Evento (5)18 Uvula (5)

Un po’ di Puccini

April solution

Clues in English have answers in Italian and vice versa

Cruciwordby Helen Askham


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Buongiorno Sig.ra Norma

Sono vicepresidente dell'associazione animalista Impronte Onlus che si occupa di aiutare gli animali sul territorio di Pisa. Ho anche un piccolo Rifugio di circa 60 anime di cui mi prendo cura da sola. Qui ospito principalmente animali disabili, malati, anziani, animali scampati al macello, abbandonati, maltrattati, con problemi comportamentali. Aiuto, per quanto possibile, ogni genere di animali, cani, gatti, conigli, pecore, capre, criceti, insomma chiunque abbia bisogno.

Ho un piccolissimo gruppo di mamme a distanza che mi sostengono, qualche lotteria e piccole donazioni ogni tanto ... le spese veterinarie e di prodotti specifici per loro sono molto alte, pannolini, traverse, pomatine, medicinali, integratori, insomma qualsiasi aiuto è sempre apprezzatissimo! Anche un paio di braccia in più.

Le mando qualche foto della mia stupenda famiglia, una realtà che vale la pena conoscere.

Le porgo i miei più cordiali saluti e la ringrazio per il Dear Norma,suo interessamento.

I am vice-president of the animal association Impronte Claudia De Luca Onlus, which is concerned with helping animals in the Pisa region. I also have a small refuge with about 60 souls that I take care of myself. Here I receive mainly disabled, ill, elderly animals, those that have evaded the slaughterhouse, abandoned, victims of maltreatment, with behavioral problems. I help, as much as is possible, every kind of animal: dogs, cats, rabbits, sheep, goats, hamsters – in short, whoever needs help.

I have a very small group of mothers at distance who support me, some lotteries and small donations every once in a while. The veterinary expenses and specific products for them are very high: diapers, cross-pieces, pomades, medicines, vitamins, whatever help is always much appreciated! Also a pair of extra arms.

I'm sending some photos of my stupendous family, a reality that is worth knowing.

Sending you my best wishes and I thank you for your interest.

Claudia De [email protected]

Letter to Grapevine


Biometrically Adjusted

esterday I took my first train journey in Italy for some time since I had an interview to attend at Lucca's Questura to Y apply for my biometric ID card which is

now necessary for all UK residents in Italy thanks to the glorious triumph of brexitism.

The journey went very smoothly through the delightful scenery of the Mediavalle. I did notice some points, however, which marked the unhappy fact that this country is still in the middle of the worst pandemic since the Black Death.

First, the men's toilets at Lucca station had been depleted of their urinals since they were considered too closely socially distanced. Instead, recourse was had to the customary hole in the floor. However, it was still possible to have a more sociable hand-wash. Second, was a panoply of platform socially distancing spacing markers (photo upper left). Ticket-stamping machines were also hygienically endorsed (photo second left). Third, were the various notices in the railway carriages denoting that some seats were not to be sat upon (photo third left). One could only enter or exit the carriages through separate doors (photos 4-5, lower left).

Happily, I was successful in the protocol formalities of obtaining my card and everything went very smoothly without any crowds from desperate asylum seekers (of which we UK citizens are often now deemed to be included).

Anyway, there was not too much to delay me from the delights of Lucca. I love this city but want to revisit it again when its treasures (and bars) are fully open to me, although I enjoyed a walk by the walls of this delicious place.

Back at home, I relished an afternoon snack consisting of my two indicators to an artificial paradise. First was the toasted Marmite slice. I'd made the bread using ciabatta flour and very fine it turned out to be. With the Marmite on it, the whole thing was heaven. Of course, Marmite is a Marmite taste to be sure. Am I to divide the world into those who would venture through crocodile-infested swamps to savour a slice of this yeast extract and those who think Marmite eaters are just plain potty … or jarry to be more exact? Not really. I would rather divide my primal concept of the universe into those who love cats and those who don't, especially my ones. The Marmite slice was followed by fig as well as chestnut jam afters. With the Marmite on it the whole thing was heaven.

Of course, no snack is complete without a suitable tipple. My solution of this equation is the following: (photo left 1) plus Equaling this: rum and coke (photo below).

Basking in the evening sunset of another lovely April day, having cut the grass (Italy appears to be one of those few countries where, approaching May, one has apparently to cut the lawn twice a day so quickly does it grow), I took a look at our modest family of spring flowers, in particular noting the first irises, the blossom whose symbol is that of the grand duchy of Tuscany itself. Welcome our spring!

– by Francis Pettitt

You can follow Francis’ blog athttp://longoio3.wordpress.com

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Accountants Vannucci & Associates. Viale San Concordio 710, 55100 Lucca. Tel. +39 0583 316636 - fax: +39 0583 419451. [email protected] - www.vannuccieassociati.it (Ref. 1103)

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Dental Surgeon and Dentist Dr. Carlo G.F. Martini. Studio Odontostomatologico Martini, Via Romana 231, 55100 Lucca. Tel 0583 467975, email: [email protected]

Lawyer Daria Mariani (English spoken). VISA, permesso di soggiorno, rental contracts, purchasing houses, EN translation of deeds, assistance before the Notary Public. [email protected] (Ref. 1191)

Lawyer Alberto Del Carlo. Admitted to the Italian High Courts, Piazzale Ricasoli, 241 – 55100 Lucca. Tel. 0583 494952, fax 0583 492352. [email protected] In the real estate field, Mr. Del Carlo works with surveyors (geometri) who speak English fluently.

Lawyer Ilaria Cipriani (Anglo/Italian). Via Nottolini 733, 55100 Lucca. Tel. 0583 1892444, fax 0583 1770173. [email protected]

Lawyer Enrico Lattanzi. Viale Carlo del Prete, Traversa I, 87 (in front of Palazzetto dello Sport), Lucca. Tel. (+39) 0583 584981, fax (+39) 0583 316172, cell. (+39) 347 4479061. [email protected], www.lawfirminitaly.com (Ref. 1204)

Translations Italian to English and English to Italian by experienced mother-tongue translators. Contact Grapevine. (Ref. 817)

Landscape design & Garden maintenance. Call Tommaso at cell. 349 284 5399 or email [email protected] www.luccalandscape.it (Ref. 572)

Removals Local, National, European and International relocation service. Servicing the UK with regular trips every 2-3 weeks. Full professional packing & export wrapping service. Friendly, experienced, professional Kiwi service. Contact Richard at [email protected] or 340 8748222. (Ref. 771)

Learn Italian while having fun: individual and group lessons with a qualified teacher of Italian to foreigners. Culture, conversation, Italian grammar and a good coffee! First lesson for free. S. Filippo area but possibility of meeting also in the historical center. For information: Tania Luciani, 328/6861335. [email protected] (Ref. 1244)

Private Italian classes Italian woman, speaks fluent English, offers individual/group les-sons. Beginners, intermediate, advanced. Help with interpreting assistance with relocat-ing. Can travel from Lucca. Anna Cell. 347 9194155 [email protected] (Ref. 267)

Spoken English private lessons. Contact Grapevine. (Ref. 1186)

Via Fiume 11, 50123 Firenze, Italy.

Looking for a babysitter? My name is Bethany-Rose and I am a mature, kind, patient and open-minded person looking to babysit in after-school hours (4.30pm-onwards)! I have lots of experience in childcare and I am very reliable. I am a native English speaker, so I am also able to provide conversational English practice for your children! References available upon request. Please email: [email protected] or Whatsapp: +39 347 444 5741. (Ref. 1262)

VARIOUS

U.S. TAX RETURNS FOR AMERICANS IN ITALY

Alexander v.Pinoci PAAL SERVICES USA, LLC (UStaxItaly)

email: [email protected] pec: [email protected]

Website: http://www.ustaxitaly.com/

Michigan USA tel: +1-808-316-0719

Rome ITALY tel: +39-06.9294.7508

cell: +39-328.162.0531 fax: +39-06.233.241.949

Grapevine cannot evaluate all the advertisements

and assumes no responsibility for their content.

Design and installation gardens terraces and watering systems

Garden maintenanceTypical Tuscan gardens

tel 0583 316713Simone 335 [email protected]

www.ilcerchioverde.it

Il Cerchio Verde

To advertise, please use the form on our webpage or send us an email at: [email protected]

See also Properties for Sale on pages 12-13.

Classified Advertisements Also visible at

www.luccagrapevine.com

TRITI REMOVALS AND STORAGEVia Don Emilio Angeli (già Via Stradone), 176

Segromigno in Piano, LuccaMondays to Saturdays 8am to 8pm

Tel. 0583 927945

[email protected]

Yoga, cooking lessons, massage, wine tasting,

language conversation classes (English or Italian )

www.holiday-villa-in-tuscany.comTel Rita 3495018679 or

whatsapp 0044 7983821282

Chill and Relax Retreats at Villa Radicata


Ingredients (for 2 people)

Procedure:

(approximate quantities):

4 ounces circa of meat, (left over from roast beef or boiled beef)

3 medium potatoes3 eggs stale bread (2 small slices of white or

whole-grain bread)3 tablespoons of grated parmigiano cheese breadcrumbsa bunch of pepolino leaves salt and pepper to taste

1. If you have any leftover roast or boiled meat you can use it very well for this recipe. An alternative can be to use only meat or only potatoes, to your liking. In this case I will use both.

2. Wash the potatoes. Cook them unpeeled in boiling salted water. 3. Check the cooking with a fork. As soon as they are cooked,

remove them from the cooking water and let them cool. 4. Meanwhile, cut the meat that you have cooked previously into

pieces and pass it through a food processor 5. Then chop the potatoes in this way (photo), or if you prefer,

mash them with a fork in a bowl until they are soft. 6. In a large ceramic bowl, beat the eggs and add the minced meat

and the potatoes, and a pinch of salt and pepper, 3 tablespoons of grated parmigiano, two small slices of the bread dipped in water in a small container shortly before, then well-squeezed.

7. Wash a bunch of Pepolino, dry it, and peel the leaves from its sprigs, then add them to the mixture and mix well with a fork until you will get a homogeneous mixture.

8. On a large piece of baking paper or yellow paper for food, pour enough breadcrumbs to coat the meatballs. Form the meatballs (2-3 tablespoons in size) using the palm of your hand and a fork, then place them in the breadcrumbs.

9. Turn them frequently in the breadcrumbs and set the meatballs aside as they are created.

10. In a large slightly deep pan, heat plenty of olive oil, or if you prefer use seed oil.

11. When this is hot, immerse the meatballs, spacing them from each other with the help of a fork and a kitchen spoon, taking care to turn them first on one side and then on the other, making sure you cook them on all sides for at least 10 minutes if you want them more golden.

12. As soon as they are ready, place them one by one in a plate with absorbent paper or baking paper or as I do, using the aluminum scolafrtto that I inherited from my grandmother Giuseppina and my mother Giuliana .

14. Serve them warm or cold. They are delicious with green salad with Italian dressing (virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper). Buon appetito!

– by Lucia Costa

Left to right: Nonna Giuseppina Del Chiaro,

Nonno Fortunato Dell'orfanello, Bisnonna Giulia Paganelli,

Mamma Giuliana Dell'orfanello (photos from the 1950s-1960s)


Meatballs with potatoesMom's meatballs were really amazing –

that pleasant smell and taste of pepolino,

biting into one of the meatballs,

so rich in taste and simplicity, prepared by

hands experienced in the cooking tradition.

Thymus Serpyllum: The Pepolino, Peporino, or wild thyme,

common in Europe and North Africa,

is a widespread species of aromatic herb,

thyme, used in cooking, as an ornament,

and for medicinal purposes.

ts mysterious medieval tower, little hidden courtyards, ancient doorways, noble villas, camellia plants punctuating every corner of I the village: these and many others are reasons to discover, by foot

certainly, Pieve di Compito and S. Andrea di Compito, the villages immersed in nature known together as the Borgo of Camellias.

This year the traditional camellia festival takes place from 13 March to 30 May. One of the special dates, in honor of the 700th anniversary of the Tuscan poet Dante Alighieri, will be 23 May, when students and professors will participate in a competition held among the camellias. The prize winners will be announced on 30 May.

From 8 to 23 May, an extemporaneous art exhibition dedicated to the theme The Camellietum and its surroundings will be held.

Above all, discover the Camellietum Compitese, a park extending for over 10,000 square meters, containing a thousand camellia plants and granted the prestigious designation of Garden of Excellence. Here, solidifying already well-established ties with Japan, the camellia's country of origin, a tea ceremony in costume will be held on 15-16 May (reservations required).

Hours 10am to 6pm.For more information contact the Centro Culturale Compitese

by telephoning 0583 977188 or 345 0552996. Visit the websites www.camelielucchesia.it and

www.camellietumcompitese.com, or write to the email address [email protected]

Antiche Camelie della Lucchesia

May 2021 G TUSCANY’S RAPEVINE

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