Spring has finally sprung! As temperatures rise and the trees and flowers bloom, I begin to dream about spring in Italy. Here are 10 reasons why I love Italy in the springtime:
- Fragolini (tiny wild strawberries) are a sweet treat. Markets throughout Tuscany sell them in early April.
- Fields surrounding Marostica are blanketed with bright red cherries (considered among the best cherries in Italy).
- Flowers abound: Azaleas on Lake Como; red poppies in Tuscany; tulips and irises near Verona; blue-violet campanulas and genians in the Dolomites.
- Prized vegetables such as asparagus and artichokes come into season.
- Festivals begin. From food and wine to celebrating saints, spring brings much to celebrate!
- The heat and tourist crowds have not arrived.
- Easter traditions and rituals top the agenda: Mass led by the Pope at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome; a huge cross is lit with burning torches near Rome's Colosseum; Scoppio del Carro (explosion of the cart) displays spectacular fireworks and parades in medieval costumes.
- Outdoor concerts begin.
- Coastal towns wake up from their winter slumber and are often cheaper to visit in spring.
- The Giro d'Italia (Tour of Italy--a long distance bicycle stage race for professional cyclists) takes place.
