Italy: Family, Food, and Ancient Wonders

Country Number Eighteen

Country number eighteen in our 52 countries in 52 weeks, The Great Global Adventure, was Italy, and it was nothing short of incredible. We kicked things off in Rome, where, of course, you have to see the Colosseum. It was insanely busy, the busiest tourist spot of our trip and one of the busiest in the world, but still absolutely worth it. The sheer size and history of the place are mind-blowing.

Family Ties in Meduno

After Rome, we hopped on a train north to Meduno. Why Meduno? My aunt Marina is the mayor there. On my mom’s side, we’re Antonini, fully Italian, and the family runs deep here. Over three days, we met cousin after cousin we’d never met before. They welcomed us with endless food, warm smiles, and stories about our heritage. Every meal was an event, and every conversation felt like a reunion of generations.

Mosaic Magic

One of the highlights was a private tour of the world’s only mosaic school. The level of artistry was unreal, and we got hands-on experience learning how mosaics are made. It was completely unique, and something none of us will ever forget. Seeing the passion behind every piece and understanding the dedication required made it truly special.

Back to Rome

After our deep dive into family history, we returned to Rome for more exploring. We made a quick stop at the Vatican, said hello to the Pope, and wandered through one of the largest cathedrals I’ve ever seen. Rome’s energy, history, and architecture never disappoint.

Reflections on Italy

Italy was a perfect mix of culture, history, food, and family. From ancient ruins to family kitchens, from mosaics to Vatican halls, it was a feast for all senses. The warmth of our relatives and the richness of our experiences made it unforgettable. Now it’s time to leave Europe behind and head to country number nineteen: Turkey.