We step inside the cellars of Produttori di Manduria, the oldest active wine cooperative in Puglia, where more than 300 grape-growing families have been tending the same ancient vines since 1932.

Anna Gennari, who leads hospitality at the cooperative, tells us how Primitivo arrived in Manduria as a bride's dowry in the 19th century and grew into one of Italy's most celebrated appellations.

From star-vaulted cellar rooms turned community museum to a sweet red wine conquering China, this is the story of a wine, a town, and the quiet persistence of the people who kept both alive.

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We step inside the Church of San Vitale in Ravenna with Professor Robin Cormack, one of the world's leading authorities on Byzantine art and author of Byzantine Art for Oxford University Press.

Standing beneath some of the most breathtaking mosaics ever created, Robin explains why this small city in Emilia-Romagna holds a place in art history that Rome, Florence and Venice simply cannot match. From the shimmering gold tessera that lines every surface to the famous panels of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, he brings one of the ancient world's greatest achievements back to vivid life.

King Charles made a special pilgrimage here during his 2025 royal tour of Italy.

Once you see it, you will understand why.

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