Views across the brunello region of Tuscany to Montalcino on the hill.

A view of the brunello wines on the Poggiarellino estate in late autumn

A farmer and his dogs prepare to lead a small group to hunt for black truffles outside of Montalcino.

A truffle hunting dog waits patiently while her owner digs up the black truffle she has scouted for him.

The Cantine nella Roccia festival in Tagliacozzo last October was a great success. Like many of the old towns of Abruzzo, it feels sleepy and melancholy on a quite day. But come the day of the festival, well, hold on to your hats! There were several street performers at this year’s event, including three bands of marching musicians. Here, local lad David Blasetti spontaneously joined in with the oncoming band, much to everyone’s delight.

Altare della Patria, Rome.

Boboli Gardens, Florence

Calle Ancore, Venice.

Bacino San Marco, Venice

Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi, 22, Burano.