Absolutely Genius 

For something extraordinary and off-the-beaten path, I recommend a visit to Le Stanze al Genio (The Rooms to the Genius), a collection of majolica ceramic floor tiles focused on designs from Naples and Sicily that were produced from the end of the 16th century to the beginning of the 20th century. Housed in the 17th-century…

Salt to Taste 

I love when art and utility meet. Here’s my salt holder, which is over my stove in New York City, made by Palermo ceramica artist, Nino Parrucca. Of course, it’s filled with sea salt from Trapani! Just lift the door, and salt to taste. 

Sunny Days

Ceramic artist Mirella Pipia of Bagheria will spend time with us on Day 10 of Savoring Sicily, Experience Sicily’s September 22-October 4 small-group tour. We’ll go to her studio where she’ll show us how she creates her inspired designs like this sunny one pictured.  Contact me at AllisonScola@ExperienceSicily.com to be inspired by our slow, boutique tour through…

Floor as Status Symbol

In January, when my cousin Giulia and I visited the private museum Stanze al Genio in Palermo, we learned that many of the majolica works of art that decorate churches and palazzi throughout Sicily are from Naples. Between the 16th and 20th centuries, for noble families and wealthy churches that could afford such decor, it…