[Travel] Embracing Serenity

In the rhythm of our daily lives, there often comes a moment when the soul yearns for respite, a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle. For me, that sanctuary lies in the embrace of travel—the opportunity to explore new or already familiar horizons, immerse myself in cultures, and reconnect with the essence of life itself. This time, my journey led me to the sun-kissed shores of Puglia, Italy, where serenity awaited, along with the cherished company of my dear brother Pierluigi in Trani and beyond.

Puglia, with its rustic charm and picturesque landscapes, has a way of captivating my heart and soothing my soul. My heart exhales in peace every time I am in Trani, where the ancient Cathedral of Saint Nicholas the Pilgrim stands as a silent witness to centuries of history and tradition. Its imposing beauty, characterized by a fusion of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture, always leaves me in awe.

We also ventured out to the enchanting town of Molfetta, home to the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Touching stones from different centuries and countries that ended up there in the quiet sunshine of just a random Monday. We also marvelled at the salt lakes nearby Margherita di Savoia and some sights of Trinitapoli. This was a beautiful moment for me to re-discover Margherita of Savoy (Turin 1851 - Bordighera 1926) who was the first queen of united Italy. Since her wedding to Prince Umberto, she was able to conquer the hearts of the Italians and, with her popularity, she contributed to building the feeling of identity of the nation around the crown of the Savoy. Queen from 1878 to 1900, she imposed her redundant taste in fashion, and decoration, her love for music and the mountains reverberated in the life of the Italian aristocracy. She was the testimonial of activities in support of women and promoted the development of vocational schools, and charitable works. The myth of Margherita did not disappear with the assassination of Umberto, on the contrary, she accompanied the nation in the twentieth century.

As the sun touched the horizon, casting a warm glow, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude wash over me. In the company of my dear brother and surrounded by the timeless beauty of Puglia, I had found solace for my weary soul. It was a reminder that, no matter where life may take us, there is always peace to be found in the simple joys of travel and the love of family and friends.

Pulignano a Mare

Trinitapoli salt lakes with flamingoes

Molfetta

Trani marina

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Ringo 1986