You’ve Never Seen Italy Like This
A bird’s-eye view of one of the most beautiful countries on Earth...
According to James Boswell's biography, Samuel Johnson once said:
A man who has not been in Italy is always conscious of an inferiority, from his not having seen what it is expected a man should see.
If you’ve ever wandered through the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, admired the Amalfi Coast from the Terrace of Infinity, or gazed up at the majestic dome of St. Peter’s, you’ll recognize the profound truth in Dr Johnson’s words.
Italy isn’t just a destination — it’s a reckoning that strips away the known world and demands you see with different eyes…
Reminder: this is an entirely reader-supported publication focused on spreading beauty.
Upgrade your subscription for just a few dollars a month to support our mission and access members-only articles like this one 👇🏻
From above — whether in a hot-air balloon, an aircraft, or through the wonders of the internet — the Bel Paese ( 'beautiful country' in Italian) offers a stunning mosaic of sights so unexpectedly unique that you will never see it the same way again.
Venice: The City That Floats Above Time
“Venice is a Fish” is a book by Italian author Tiziano Scarpa that creatively explores the city's identity through a striking metaphor.
Scarpa likens Venice to a fish — not only because of its fish-like shape when seen from above, but also due to its rich maritime history and its role as a center of global trade. Reflecting on this image, Scarpa writes:
Venice is a fish. Just look at it on a map. It’s like a vast sole stretched out against the deep. How did this marvellous beast make its way up the Adriatic and fetch up here, of all places? It could set off on its travels at any time.
Palmanova: Italy’s Star
Known for its breathtaking layout, Palmanova in Friuli-Venezia Giulia looks like a fortress that fell from the heavens…
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Beauty is truth to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.