Culture

Passion Italy

A travelogue series that presents Italy through the passions of its people. Host Alessandra Poli lays out authentic, inexpensive Italian adventures for travelers who want to experience the spirit of the true Italian artist – those who live to create, and put quality and pride before profit and fame.

Lazio

26m 28s

Off-the-beaten-path Rome includes the street art district, the Pyramid, and the magnificent Palazzo Colonna. Alessandra introduces viewers to an eccentric artist who invented a language to describe his fantasy world, then travels to an ancient mint in medieval Viterbo. Finally, she tours a ghost village with a local chef and choreographer, and attends a charming tamburella concert.

Episodes

  • Sardinia: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Sardinia

    S2 E206 - 26m 6s

    Alessandra explores the stunning landscapes, architectural marvels, and artistic wonders of the Island of Sardinia. Destinations include Cagliari’s historic cathedral, a “sound garden,” temples, 12th-century catacombs, natural caves, and mining galleries. Artisans include a sea silk embroiderer, an innovative goldsmith, and a lawyer who dreams of making swimwear.

  • Basilicata: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Basilicata

    S2 E205 - 25m 53s

    Alessandra journeys to stunning Matera, an almost unknown region with wild beauty and captivating traditions. Experience a colorful and peculiar Carnival, and meet artisans including an impassioned embroiderer and an Aglianico del Vulture wine maker. Finally, discover the ancient techniques for creating nativity scenes and metal works in Acerenza, one of the 50 most beautiful towns in Italy.

  • Tuscany: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Tuscany

    S2 E204 - 26m 13s

    Experience Tuscany, the enticing city at Italy’s center with artisans continuing Renaissance-era craftsmanship. Join Alessandra as she discovers the secrets behind creating mosaics and saving historic textiles, including one by Leonardo da Vinci. Visit a stunning palace, learn the recipe for renowned Cantucci biscuits, meet a marble sculptor, and see the architectural and musical wonder of Lucca.

  • Molise: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Molise

    S2 E203 - 26m 18s

    In the beautifully captivating region of Molise, Alessandra discovers a family’s bell-making tradition, 11th generation cheesemakers, artisans crafting in stainless steel and wood, and a musician’s unique use for bagpipes. Additionally, Alessandra visits unique archeological and cultural sites, and the Museum of Costumes, where she gives insight on the complex traditions of the region.

  • Campania: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Campania

    S2 E202 - 25m 57s

    Alessadnra travels to locations including Naples, Campania, Vesuvius, and La Gaiola to learn about the incredible craftsmanship and culinary marvels that await there. Discover skilled artisans using century-old techniques including a cameo carver, an umbrella maker, and an embroider. Taste delicious pastries, pizza, and wine from the Vesuvius region. Dive into a marine and archeological park.

  • Alto Adige: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Alto Adige

    S2 E201 - 26m 22s

    Experience the dramatic Dolomite landscape with enchanting castles and charming towns. Artisans craft beautiful wooden creations with both tradition and modernity, and the culinary gems of Alto Adige utilize local flavors to make their dishes. Alessandra visits historic medieval castles and shows viewers the Diocesan Museum of Bressanone, a precious example of the region’s art and architecture.

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