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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We go inside Palazzo Mignanelli in Rome, where the Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo Giammetti has unveiled Venus, a stunning exhibition running through May 2026 that brings together art and fashion in spectacular fashion.

Curator Pamela Golbin walks us through the most breathtaking pieces, from the vision behind the show to the surprising collaborations that made it possible.

It's the Rome exhibition everyone is talking about, and we got a front-row tour.

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We sit down with Mario Mozzetti at Alfredo alla Scrofa in Rome, where fettuccine Alfredo was born and where the art of mantecatura has been passed down through three generations.

The third-generation owner of Alfredo alla Scrofa tells us how this iconic dish conquered the world, from Hollywood legends to Masterchef Turkey, and why the secret is still in the hands.

It's a love letter to Roman tradition, family pride and the perfect plate of pasta.

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In this introductory episode we unveil the blueprint to the Italy Now podcast.

Meet us, understand our approach, and get a glimpse of the stories ahead.

Consider this your press pass to the real Italy.

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