Italy from the Inside

There’s a magical place near Trieste

Castelletto di Muggia- Italy from the Inside

It is simply known as Castelletto di Muggia and it’s a treasure to discover. Built in 1374 as a military defense, the castle went through many vicissitudes until its complete dereliction in the 80s. But as any fascinating tale fortunately there’s a happy ending: in 1991 two artists purchased the castle and brought it back to its original beauty.

Castelletto interni- Italy From the Inside

Today it is a private residence, but its doors open to musical events and special occasions. As a matter of fact this is the place where my in-laws celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary… with a golden cake.

Torta di matrimonio- Italy From The Inside

I couldn’t think of a better place to do it.

 

L’aperitivo rosso per eccellenza

Sanbitter- Italy From the Inside

For many Italians the aperitivo by definition is the famous Sanbittèr. This alcohol-free drink was first made in 1961 with a recipe of herbs and citrus extracts. It’s sweet at first, but with a bitterish aftertaste. It is delicious with stuzzichini (finger food) and it can be a tasty main ingredient for many creative cocktails for the Italian happy hour.

Here kitty, kitty…

 

Rescued cat- Italy from the Inside

So, here’s what happened: one day I was “happily” hanging my clothes outside, when I saw this rescue team trying to help a cat who got stuck in a tree. The kitty’s bad decision had the power to demobilize 5 people, 2 ladders and one mattress. I have no idea how the cat got there neither I know how the story ended. My believe is that the gattino eventually made it for the joy of its rescuers. He was luckier than my friend’s cat who fell down the 5th floor of the nearby building while “peeking” outside. Poveretto.