Rebuilding The Renaissance

Episode 382 - Sicily - Palermo Cathedral

May 13, 2026

Originally built in the 12^th century, Palermo Cathedral was continually modified for the next six centuries. While much of its original and rather exotic Norman architecture survives on the exterior, the interior is entirely Neoclassical in design. Palermo Cathedral is home to the tomb of Holy Roman Emperor Frederick...

Episode 381 - Palermo - 3,000 Years of History, Beauty, and Traditions

May 6, 2026

Founded by the Phoenicians nearly 3,000 years ago, Palermo subsequently became a Greek, Carthaginian, Roman, Arab, and Norman city. This mix of civilizations is palpable in Palermo art, architecture, food, and customs of the city. This podcast explores this magical Sicilian city’s three millennia of history,...

Episode 380 - The Soul of Sicily

Apr 29, 2026

The Italian Island of Sicily is one of the most magical places on earth. Embraced by the Mediterranean, Tyrrhenian, and Ionian Seas, kissed by warm sunshine nearly year-round, home to three active volcanoes – the largest of which, “Her Majesty,” Mt. Etna, looms over the island like a sleeping giant – and a...

Episode 379 - Answers to Open Questions Part XXVIII

Apr 22, 2026

From the origins of the name “Rialto," to mysterious statues on the facade of Florence Cathedral, to the connection between Piero della Francesca and Caravaggio, to the reason why the red pigment in Fra Angelico’s frescoes glitter, to great Italian Renaissance art in England, and much, much more - this episode...

Episode 378 - Florence: Palazzo Davanzati

Apr 15, 2026

Built in the 14th century for the Davizzi family, before being sold to the Davanzati family in the 16^th century, the Palazzo Davanzati is today home of the “Museum of the Old Florentine House.” The various floors showcase domestic spaces and household objects to recreate life in a medieval Florentine...