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The main points of interest on Lake Como
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Bellagio, the Pearl of Lake Como
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Tetouan, the White City of Morocco
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Bellagio, the Pearl of Lake Como
Named the pearl of Lake Como for its incredible beauty, Bellagio is an ancient lakeside village with an elegant atmosphere. Forget about *That branch of Lake Como* from Manzoni’s novel—Bellagio lies right at the fork between the two branches of the lake, acting as a natural divider. Bellagio is famous for the characteristic stairways that rise from the lakefront up the hillside. In fact, it is perched on a promontory that splits the lake in two. With its mild climate, the town has been an exclusive vacation spot since ancient times. Even today, it’s a favorite destination for celebrities and famous personalities visiting the lake. Bellagio is part of my…
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Marrakech, the Pink City of Morocco
Marrakech is often referred to as the Pink City, as its medina is surrounded by high ochre-pink walls that guard the treasures of a place rich in history, tradition, and culture. No place brings to mind the stories of One Thousand and One Nights like Marrakech does, where rubbing a brass lamp in hopes of summoning a wish-granting genie feels natural. But just being in Marrakech already feels like part of a true enchantment. Marrakech was my second visit to Morocco. I was afraid it would be an anonymous city, made uniform by tourism compared to the northern villages. The main square and central streets have somewhat…
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Majorelle Garden – Between Green and Cobalt Blue
Majorelle Garden – Between Green and Cobalt Blue The Majorelle Garden is the most famous attraction in the modern part of Marrakech. It’s truly impossible to leave the city without visiting the villa and its renowned gardens. The Majorelle Garden is a true oasis of peace amid the chaos of Marrakech. The complex includes the villa and its lush gardens filled with palm trees, cacti, orange trees, and rose bushes. What makes it so special are the cobalt blue tones that color every corner. The truth about the Majorelle Garden is that it really is beautiful. I’m often disappointed by overly famous tourist attractions, but this garden truly offers a…
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The Jewish Quarter of Marrakech
The Jewish quarter of Marrakech is called the Mellah. It’s an area of the city enclosed by high walls and marked by an architectural style that’s completely different from the rest of Marrakech. The Jewish quarter was built during the Saadian dynasty to allow Jews to live in the city, although isolated from the rest of the population. In fact, the Mellah of Marrakech was once a real city within the city, enclosed by high walls. I passed through the Jewish quarter of Marrakech intending only to visit the cemetery. I thought I’d see the place and head straight back to the city’s bustling bazaars. Instead, the Jewish quarter draws…
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Discovering Lucca
Discovering Lucca Italy, Lucca, Tuscany Lucca is a charming Tuscan town enclosed by 16th-century walls. Despite its small size, the city offers countless sights of rare beauty. Here’s what to see in a day in the “city of 100 churches” and many towers. Lucca is a true city of art. Its historic center, enclosed by high walls, hides hidden treasures and offers a warm embrace of brick houses, narrow streets, and lively views. Walking through the center feels like immersing yourself in an authentic, welcoming Italy where the human scale still prevails. I had been dreaming of visiting Lucca for a long time, but its slightly secluded location always made…
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Lecco, the Other Side of Como Lake
Lecco is a historic city where water and rock blend in a timeless embrace. It sits at the tip of the eastern branch of Lake Como. While less well-known than the city that gives the lake its name, Lecco gained fame thanks to Alessandro Manzoni, who set his most famous novel, The Betrothed, here. Stretched along the water, Lecco lies where the Adda River becomes a lake. It’s a pleasant place to relax, walk, and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds it. The elegant old town, right on the lakeshore, tells the story of a city made immortal by Manzoni’s words. Lecco is a beautiful city, though it often remains…
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Pescarenico, the Fishermen’s Hamlet of Lecco
Pescarenico is a charming hamlet in Lecco, well known for being the setting of Alessandro Manzoni’s *The Betrothed*. The village stretches along the banks of the Adda River just before the Ponte Vecchio, preserving the timeless charm of days gone by. The hamlet of Pescarenico appears as a row of colorful houses reflected in the calm waters. A walk along the bridge offers a wonderful view of its silhouette in all its beauty. Pescarenico is especially famous because from these very banks, Renzo sets off for Milan — one of the most powerful scenes in Manzoni’s novel, described in the poetic passage known as *Farewell to the Mountains*. It’s considered…
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Nesso and the Orrido: A Hidden Gem on Lake Como
Italy, Lake Como, Nesso Nesso is one of those lesser-known villages on Lake Como that stands out for its unique features, making it a true gem in this breathtaking corner of Italy. Nesso undoubtedly deserves a place on your must-see list thanks to its famous Orrido and the scenic bridge that frames it. Let’s dive into what makes Nesso so special. My Memories of Nesso Nesso lives in my memory from my high school years, when I used to come here with friends to swim in the lake during hot summer afternoons. Like many teenagers, I didn’t fully grasp the beauty right in front of me. Years later, when I…
