Stories

 

Here you’ll find all of my stories categorized by region. Stories about major cities, including Rome, Milan and Naples, are grouped separately. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Try searching here or contact me.

 
 
Sicily Matthijs Haak Sicily Matthijs Haak

San Vito lo Capo: the Sicilian Caribbean

For me, Sicily has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday: a rich history, delicious food, beautiful nature, and some of Italy's most beautiful beaches. One of these beautiful beaches can be found in San Vito lo Capo …

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Sicily Matthijs Haak Sicily Matthijs Haak

Trinacria: the symbol of Sicily

Have you visited Sicily? Then you must have noticed the island's distinctive symbol. It consists of three bent legs, three stalks of wheat, and a strange-looking female head. The symbol is displayed everywhere …

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Sicily Matthijs Haak Sicily Matthijs Haak

Sicily: a brief history lesson

The island of Sicily is both the largest region of Italy and the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Because of its strategic location in the middle of the Mediterranean, Sicily has been conquered and ruled by many …

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Umbria Matthijs Haak Umbria Matthijs Haak

Orvieto: Umbrian hilltop gem

Orvieto is definitely one of my favorite places in Umbria. The town is perched on top of a steep tufa hill that rises amid the verdant landscape. But the beautiful location of the city …

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Umbria Matthijs Haak Umbria Matthijs Haak

Terni: city of love and steel

Terni is the second-largest city in Umbria and is located in the region's south. Unlike many of Umbria's medieval towns, Terni's layout and architecture are mainly modern. This is the result …

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Umbria Matthijs Haak Umbria Matthijs Haak

Trevi: Umbria’s capital of olive oil

Between Foligno and Spoleto, the medieval town of Trevi rises from the slopes of Monte Serano. Most of the town is densely built around the hilltop, offering you some of the best views in Umbria …

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Umbria Matthijs Haak Umbria Matthijs Haak

Procession of the Dead Christ: commemorating Jesus' sacrifice

The Dead Christ Procession is one of Gubbio's most important religious events. Its origins trace back to medieval times, particularly around the 13th century. During this period, religious dramas and reenactments were common forms of expression aimed at bringing biblical stories and liturgical events more alive. The Processione del Cristo Morto is what remains of these dramas.

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