Italia Lodging wish you a happy new year

The staff of Italia Lodging - Charming Accommodation in Italy, wish you all a happy new year 2007.

Italy tourist Areas - Newly added

In order to make easier to our visitors the way they find accommodation in Italy on our website, we have listed a couple of new tourist areas.

Grouping destinations part of the same geographical region, we may help visitors to locate the accommodation which better suites with the specific needs for each one.

Here you have the newly addad areas:

Italian Alps
http://www.italialodging.com/accommodation_italian_alps.htm
The scenic Italian Alps comprise lush valleys and pine forests set against the backdrop of jagged white peaks stretching through the clouds. The Alps are loved by everyone: by sports enthusiasts who wait for the winter months in order to get out onto the downhill slopes or to slide around the upland plains on the cross-country ski circuits; by the mountaineers who go up in summer to almost inaccessible paths that take them to within an inch of infinity; by nature-lovers who can explore the parks. The Italian mountains are for everyone - a marvelous place in all the seasons of the year. Six Italian Regions overlooking the Alps: Aosta Valley, Piedmont, Lombardy, Veneto, Trentino - Alto Adige and Friuli Venezia Giulia. Don't miss the Dolomites: Le Corbusier called the Dolomites "the most beautiful architecture in the world."
Regions forming this area:
Valle d'Aosta - Piedmont - Lombardy - Trentino Alto Adige - Veneto - Friuli Venezia Giulia


Dolomites
http://www.italialodging.com/accommodation_dolomites.htm
Dolomites. A magic that has been repeating itself for millions of years. When day gives way to evening's first shadows, it casts an enchanting spell. Pink rock faces, like the colour of the legend. Like King Laurin's rose. Vast and varied woods and forests are to be found in the Dolomites. An immense plant kingdom. There are 10 Natural Parks that protect the Dolomites' natural heritage. A multitude of museums within the Dolomites recount the history of this land and its people. An immense patrimony that is to be discovered and respected
Regions forming this area:
Trentino Alto Adige - Veneto

Lake Garda
http://www.italialodging.com/accommodation_lake_garda.htm
Lake Garda - the entrance to the south, the first tasting of the Italian way of life behind the Alps. The Lake lies beautifully embedded between high mountains, olive groves and vineyards. The region around the Lake is Alpine and Mediterranean at the same time and stupefies by its variety of countryside, vegetation and culture. The places around Lake Garda captivate their visitors with their southern atmosphere, they invite to go for a stroll, to go shopping or to simply enjoy doing nothing at all. At the same time, this region, full of contrasts, is one of the biggest activity playgrounds in Europe. Here you can find climbing rocks immediately next to surfing spots, mountainbike trails which end on a beach and from the top of a 2000m mountain you can watch the sailing boats on the Lake
Regions forming this area:
Trentino Alto Adige - Veneto - Lombardy

Salento
http://www.italialodging.com/accommodation_salento.htm
Salento (Salentu in dialect) is the south-eastern extremity of the Apulia region of Italy. It is a sub-peninsula of the main Italian peninsula, sometimes described as the "heel" of the Italian "boot". It encompasses the administrative areas of Brindisi, Lecce and Taranto provinces. The peninsula is also known as Terra d'Otranto, and in ancient times was called variously Messapia, Calabria, and Salentina. Salento is a peaceful land full of history and traditions whose strong points are its natural and architectural beauties, its hospitality, its magic atmosphere, its several wonders to discover, its warm sun, its blue sky, its crystal sea and its dreamlike coast
Regions forming this area:
Apulia


Enjoy surfing Italia Lodging - Charming accommodation in Italy

Siena independent apartment

Newly added accommodation in Siena

A peace and relax oasis with a marvellous view on Siena

Holiday House “Fontebenedetta” is located in Siena, in a very strategic area for those who want to have the city at hand’s reach while enjoying some relaxing and peaceful moments in an enchanting park. “Fontebenedetta” was built in the XIX Century nearby an ancient source of natural water from which it probably derives its name. The house is located on the top of a hill overlooking Siena and Basilica dell’Osservanza.

The property is about five hectares large and its park extends over the side of the hill east of Siena.

Fontebenedetta is composed of six self-catering apartments with breathtaking views on Siena and Tuscany landscapes. The apartments, located in the villa and in the adjoining rural buildings, are furnished according to the traditional style of the ancient country houses and are equipped with satellite TV and independent heating for winter stays.

The small holm oak wood, nicely cool also during summer and equipped with table and chairs, is the perfect place to have a pleasant moment in complete relax enjoying the sounds and perfumes of nature. A really enchanting place where, with a little luck, you will have the chance to meet wild animals such as squirrels, hares, pheasants, turtles, swallows, hoopoes, finches…

The garden is equipped with tables and chairs at guests’ disposal for open air meals.

The swimming pool, placed on a natural terrace, overlooks valleys, vineyards and centuries-old cypresses: open all day long, it is complete with high board, ladder and open air shower. A solarium area with beach chairs and beds surrounds the swimming pool.

The private parking, which is protected by two electronic gates, is just a few minutes away from the apartments.

The busses to the city centre stop just a few metres away from Fontebenedetta. The train station can be easily reached on foot.

Fontebenedetta is an enchanting accommodation to enjoy a relaxing stay the Siena countryside immersed in nature and just a few minutes away from the centre of this fabulous art city.

Website: http://www.italialodging.com/est/fontebenedetta/

Italia Lodging - Italy charming hotels

Bormio: charming hotels

Newly added accommodation

In Bormio, warmth and tradition directly in front of the ski pistes

In Bormio, Valtellina, Italian Alps: tradition and warmth, combined with 3 generations of passion for hospitality: this is Hotel La Genzianella. A house decorated with warm wood and precious materials, directly in front of the ski pistes and a short walk from the town centre. The World ski cup Stelvio piste and the ski lifts are right in front of the Genzianella (about 50M ), and Bormio’s historic centre is only 3 minutes away.

Wood and loving touches create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, one that invites you to take on the day with calm and tranquillity. A non smoking hotel that always allows you to breath fresh air!

All the 40 rooms have been refurbished in the past two years. Classic: tastefully decorated, each of these bedrooms has parquet, telephone, TV, bathroom, safe, hairdryer and balcony. Panorama: from the sunny front balcony of these rooms you have a fabulous view of the Stelvio ski slope.
Individually decorated and with wooden floor they are equipped with telephone, TV, safe and hairdryer. Charme: unique, special and cosy, they offer a relaxing hydro massage shower or tub. All with sat-tv, safe, hairdryer and mini bar. Family Room: Made up of two connected bed rooms and one bathroom, these bed rooms have been especially designed for families. Junior Suite: Full of traditional flair, beautiful décor, these bedrooms offer a comfortable living room and a romantic atmosphere. Equipped of all comforts, including a hydro massage tub/shower, can host up to four persons.

Spoil yourself with our cuisine… The menu consists of an hors d’oeuvres, vegetable and salad buffet, a choice from four first courses, a choice from four second courses, a selection of local cheeses and last but not least ,one of the many tempting sweets, all prepared by the chef who is always seeking out traditional and modern flavours.

For breakfast …. the smell of French toast, the sizzle of bacon, the wonderful coffee aroma,
the local farmer’s fresh butter that in the summer has a delicate mountain herb scent... are enough to perk up almost any morning grouch after an early rising! Simply the perfect introduction to conquer the Alta Valtellina’s highest peaks!

Relax after a mountain expedition in the Stelvio National Park. Feel regenerated after a day’s skiing on Valtellina’s slopes. The day hasn’t finished yet……. A session in the finish sauna, a powerful shower like a waterfall and a peaceful moment in the relax room will bring you back to life before dinner!

It will be a pleasure to host you in our hotel and to let you enjoy Bormio, Valtellina both for winter sports and for summer holidays. Looking forward to meeting you soon!

Web site: http://www.italialodging.com/est/hotellagenzianella/

Italia Lodging - Charming accommodation in Italy

Dolomites. Val Gardena Hotels

When talking about Val Gardena one usually refers to the Val Gardena Valley [(Gröden (ger) - Val Gardena (ita) - Gherdëina (lad)] which is one of the five ladin valleys in South Tyrol. This valley is nearly 30 km long and forks off close to the south of chiusa (near bridge Gardena / Waidbruck) east of the Eisack / valle Isarco Valley. The most significant towns of the valley are Ortisei, S. Cristina, and Selva Gardena. Val Gardena is the quintessence of the scenic beauty of the Dolomites defined by the mighty Langkofel (3.181 m) and the monumental Sella mountain range; hence it is a destination for hiking and mountaineering. The valley continues at its end as roads lead over the Val Gardena Joch and also past the Sellajoch and take you further into the fascinating center of the Dolomites where one finds oneself among most unusual and intriguing rock formations, walls, niches, and towers.

Val Gardena accommodation page:
http://www.italialodging.com/accommodation_val_gardena.htm

In Selva di Val Gardena, one of the best known resorts in the Valley, we suggest Villa Augusta, a nice bed and breakfast offering independent units in a shalet style accommodation.

Villa Augusta - Selva di Val Gardena bed and breakfast

Clear-cut lines, fine local materials, pleasant shapes and colours, sweet scents, and carefully selected decorations all unite to create an atmosphere in which you will find peace and quiet, well-being, and relaxation. The lounge is the heart of the Villa Augusta. Breakfast, 5 o'clock tea, a glass of fine wine in the company of others … any occasion is right to draw up a seat by a warm crackling fire and soak up the atmosphere. "Break-slow" is the philosophy for our breakfast. Start your day well choosing from the rich and varied buffet offering mouth-watering local produce and a vast selection of fine teas.

Website: http://www.italialodging.com/est/villaaugusta/

Enjoy your winter holidays or your summer vacation in the Dolomtes area, in Val Gardena, South Tyrol

Bed and breakfast Rome Trastevere

An extremely elegant bed and breakfast in Rome. A very refined accommodation with garden, and themed furnishing.
Our elegant, quiet and unique Bed and Breakfast is situated on the hill of Gianicolo, along a eautiful tree-lined road, that from 'the terraces of Rome' of Gianicolo and Fontanone comes down towards Trastevere, one of the most ancient and authentic district of Rome. The historic center is at your feet! Crossing the Tiber you are at Pantheon, Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori; or on Campidoglio, to the Foro Romano, to the Coliseum, to Fontana di Trevi, and then to Trinità dei Monti, and to the most famous streets for the exclusive shopping; coming down from the other side of Gianicolo you are at San Pietro and Vatican.

Website: http://www.italialodging.com/est/ilboom/

Italia Lodging: charming bed and breakfast in Rome

Dolomites accommodation: Val di Fassa, Italy

Comprising seven individual villages and located amid some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe, Val Di Fassa has it all. Linked to the vast Dolomiti Super Ski Pass area and flanked by the awesome Dolomites, Val Di Fassa has access to the largest ski area in the world, with a choice of 1,200kms of ski slopes on the one pass. The Val Di Fassa resort combines seven resorts into one unforgettable ski experience set among majestic backdrops. The majority of visitors stay at the residences in Campitello and Canazei, making these places the busiest at the resort. Although typically Italian in atmosphere and character, Val Di Fassa has retained links to its roots and the ancient Ladin language is still spoken here.

Here you have two nice charming chalet style hotels in Val di Fassa: one in Moena and one in Vigo di Fassa:

Hotel Cristallo , Vigo di Fassa
The Hotel Cristallo is located in a privileged and quiet position in Vigo di Fassa, a picturesque village in Val di Fassa, 150 m from the town centre and 300 m from Ski Area Catinaccio/Rosengarten, the ideal region for skiing in the Dolomites, away. Relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest on the sunny terrace, in the rustic taverna, in the TV-room or at the bar of our beautiful three stars Hotel in Trentino South Tyrol - the perfect ambience for a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. Let yourself be enchanted by the pleasant atmosphere awaiting you at the Hotel Cristallo during your holidays in Trentino South Tyrol.
Website: http://www.italialodging.com/est/hotelcristallo/

Hotel L'Ideale, Moena
Hotel L'Ideale in Moena is a nice, comfortable and well located family run hotel. In this accommodation guests will find a pleasant friendly atmosphere. Located in a quiet and sunny position, this hotel is the ideal solution for your winter holiday or a wonderful and relaxing summer vacation in the heart of Dolomites. A fable like setting for your stay in Moena, of the nicest mountain resorts of Italian Alps.

Website: http://www.italialodging.com/est/hotellideale/

Have a wonderful fable like summer or winter holiday in Val di Fassa, Trentino, Dolomites!

Italia Lodging Staff - Charming accommodation in Italy

Umbria. Exclusive stay in Spoleto

Palazzo Leti is an historical residence brought back to life and to its original ancient beauty after a long and careful restoration. Our dream is to provide people with a place to stay that is not just an hotel but also a lovely peaceful location in the historical heart of Spoleto and middle of nature. The Historical Residence consists of 12 rooms, all of which are decorated with warm lightly coloured fabrics and organza. Each room, with its unique architecture, colour and decor is reminiscent of a noble room of the past. All rooms have a view of the sacred mountain of the Spoleto valley "Monteluco", which evokes the peace and the harmony of the hermits that once lived there.

The beautiful residence of the noble Leti family is located in the historic centre of Spoleto. The Residence was built shortly after the medieval city walls were constructed (1292) using, in part, a pre existent Roman structure which you can still see walking along Via delle Felici. Recent restoration has revealed an important architectural, environmental and historic heritage not to mention a garden that has been restored in classic "Italian garden" style. It is notable for containing many kinds of marble from different eras including a Sansi coat of arms. From the garden one can admire the beautiful view of Monteluco and some of Spoleto's most important monuments including the Rocca Albornoziana, and St. Peter's Church.

web site: http://www.italialodging.com/est/palazzoleti/

Italia Lodging - Charming Accommodation in Italy

Pisa Surroundings Villas

The Relais dell' Ussero at the Villa della Seta di Corliano is on the road which runs along the foot of the hills from Pisa to Lucca, passing through the small town of San Giuliano Terme. The Villa is a historical fifteenth century mansion surrounded by a centuries old park. It is a property of great charm in which the owners offer, in 12 rooms, a relaxing stay immersed in the beauties of the local countryside. Guests, if they like, can join in the day to day activities of the villa. They can have relaxing strolls in the park, potter around in the gardens, chat or have dinner with the owners in the farmhouse of the villa - today a high class restaurant - and attend any of the events arranged at the villa (parties - meetings etc.).

The Villa della Seta at Corliano is a "Palazzo of Gentlemen, with a staircase out front, with a gallery at the main door, with a spring and surrounding land for the use of the aforesaid palazzo" which the Florentine Vincenzo Pitti described as "the most beautiful mansion that there is near Pisa" in the first half of the seventeenth century. The Villa has hosted many illustrious guests such as Gustavus III of Sweden, Christian II of Denmark, the Royal Family of Great Britain, Benedict Stuart Cardinal of York, General Murat, Luigi Buonaparte, Paolina Borghese, Carlo Alberto of Savoy, the poets Byron and Shelley, and various other personages from the history books.

Legend has it that in the Villa della Seta at Corliano along the road running at the foot of the mount between Pisa and Lucca, there still moves the apparition of Teresa della Seta Bocca Gaetani, of famed beauty, descendant of an ancient Pisan family and given in marriage, in 1755, to the Count Cosimo Baldassarre Agostini.It seems that the noblewoman appears every now and then in the rooms of the mansion, moving tapestries and ornaments. Other times she has been known to slam doors and open windows. Some of the local peasants recall her arriving on certain nights by the light of the full moon. She appears on the drive of the park leading a coach and six, and then stops on the bend of the Ragnaia (“Cobweb corner”, so-called from the old name for the nets that hunters formerly used in the woods to capture small birds) to cast a glance towards the home where she once lived happily.The ghost, obviously of good nature, has been heard other times hurrying along and giggling in the underground passages of the villa, beneath the large wine cellars. The years go by and stories are told and retold, and there are still those who recall the evening in which there was the sound of an almighty clatter as one of the crystal chandeliers of the hall crashed to the floor. Those present dashed to the hall, only to discover on arriving there, that the chandelier was very much in its place. And still today odd episodes occur …

Enjoy ....,

Italia Lodging - Charming accommodation in Italy

Assisi Country Inn and Spa

The new Resort & Spa San Crispino is the perfect place to stay if you love nature, wellness and relax: the Resort is located in Tordandrea, only 5 km from Assisi and it is completely embedded in the unspoilt Umbrian countryside; at the same time, you are very close to Tordandrea and Castelnuovo di Assisi and the most important art cities in Umbria are very easy to reach. The exclusive indoor Spa is perfect to heal your body and mind with our special beauty treatments, sauna, gym, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi, chromotherapy.

Website: http://www.italialodging.com/est/sancrispinoresortandspa/

The Resort has 9 double bedrooms and 2 suites decorated with antique furniture and refined country style curtains and fabrics. All the rooms are named after plants and flowers of the ancient officinal tradition…you will find the Lavandula officinalis, the Calendula officinalis, Salvia officinalis…

Guests can spend some time in our elegant lounge with library or walk in our huge garden with swimming-pool and enjoy a unique view of Assisi. Refined massage rooms immersed in our green garden will be the perfect setting for your time of relax.

Wellness, relax and culture close to Assisi !

Italia Lodging - Charming Accommodation in Italy

Agritourism in Asciano, Tuscany

We are glad to list this new accommodation, beautifully immersed in the Crete Senesi country side, in the territory of Asciano.



Podere Scurcoli - A nice country Inn in a quiet corner of Siena's countryside
In a quiet corner of Siena's countryside, approximately midway between Rapolano Terme and Asciano there is Podere Scurcoli. The farmhouse is composed of two stone houses on top of a hill surrounded by 70 hectares of well kept grounds with a small lake for fishing. Situated in one of the last natural intact paradises in Tuscany, the farmhouse has a stunning swimming pool with a very panoramic position overlooking the famous "Crete Senesi" area and a solarium area with beach umbrellas and deckchairs.
Website: http://www.italialodging.com/est/poderescurcoli

Italia Lodging - Charming accommodation in Italy

Historic Palaces in Venice

Many historic palaces and aristocratic houses have open their doors to hospitality. The Venetian Palaces are the nicest examples of this kind of accommodation. This is because of the charm of the city itself, because of the architecture of each of them, because in Venice everything is nicer and everything seems more important and unique.

Here we want to put to your attention a few of these accommodation we list in our website: each of them is a possibility to experience Venice and to breath a old past time atmosphere.

At Home a Palazzo
http://www.italialodging.com/est/athomeapalazzo/

"At Home A Palazzo" is situated in Venice, on the third floor of Ca´Pesaro Papafava, noble 14th century palace, recently renovated, very large, around 500 metres squared. The east wing is reserved for guests, the rooms are bright with a wide view over neighbouring houses. It is situated before the Abbazia della Misericordia and the Scuola Grande della Misericordia - Boat No. 1, Ca´ d´Oro halt (2 minutes on foot). The ground floor entrance hall has also a door overlooking the waterway, hence the possibility of mooring water taxis. The bed and breakfast offers high quality service, refined, exclusive yet warm atmosphere.

Palazzo Berlendis
http://www.italialodging.com/est/palazzoberlendis/

Right in the heart of Venice, just beside the Beggar's Bridge, in the New Foundations ("Fondamenta Nuove") part of the Sestiere of Cannaregio, you will find the Seventeenth-Century Merati-Berlendis Palace building, which is a national monument. It still has a rich and elegant series of stuccoes, the work of the Swiss Ticino sculptors Abbondio Stazio and Carpoforo Tencalla. Here, you can have the holiday of your dreams in Venice, the most wonderful of homes whose inhabitants have included Friedrich Nietsche for as many as four years. Here you will find all the charm of Venice summed up: all its history and its breathtaking beauty.

Palazzo Foscarini
http://www.italialodging.com/est/palazzofoscarini/

Palazzo Foscarini is situated on the Canale Santa Margherita and faces the beautiful façade of the Church of Santa Maria dei Carmini. The Palace was built by the Foscarini family and remained in their possession until the fall of the Republic. As members of the Venetian Nobility, they are particularly remembered for having provided the city with one of the last important Doges- who was also a noted man of letters. Today, it still boasts a number of remarkable artistic and architectural features which bear witness to its noteworthy history; these can be found both on the exterior of the building and within the individual apartments.

Enjoy your stay in Venice and experience this unique city from the history of its buildings.

Italia Lodging – Charming accommodation in Italy

Maranello, Ferrari

Somebody understands the meaning of a red passion..... . You are going to visit Italy, you shouldn't miss one of its contemporary symbols. We are talking about Ferrari of course.

If right today, after 90 wins, 1354 points and seven world championship titles, Michael Schumacher has announced he will retire at the end of this season, we have one more reason to go!

Maranello: that's it. A small village close to Modena. Here you have the myth.

Here you have a couple of bed and breakfast close to Maranello (and distances to the town).

Il Borgo Antico - Savignano sul Panaro
http://www.italialodging.com/est/ilborgoantico/
(distance: 14.6 km)

Casa della Maestà - Nonantola
http://www.italialodging.com/est/casadellamaesta/
(distance: 21.9 km)

La Piana dei Castagni - Rocca di Roffeno
http://www.italialodging.com/est/lapianadeicastagni/
(distance: 28.8 km)

B&B Via Punta 8 - Bologna
http://www.italialodging.com/est/bandbviapunta8/
(distance: 30.5 km)

La Casa dei Gessi - Pianoro
http://www.italialodging.com/est/lacasadeigessi/
(distance: 40.9 km)

Lodole B&B - Monzuno
http://www.italialodging.com/est/lodolebandb/
(distance: 42.1 km)

Here you have a few practical info about the Ferrari museum in Maranello:

Opening hours
Galleria Ferrari is open every day from 9.30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. - from 1st May to 30th September extended opening untill 7:00 p.m.

Prices
Full ticket: 12.00 euroChildren aged 6-10: 8.00 euroFerrari Club members, Students, over 65, company CRAL: 10.00 euro

Informations
Tel: +39 0536 943204 - Fax: +39 0536 949714 - E. mail: Galleria@ferrari.it
Address : via Dino Ferrari, 43 - 41053 Maranello (Mo)

A Ferrari Fun @ Italia Lodging, Charming Accommodation in Italy

New Venice bed and breakfast - At Home a Palazzo

Loacted in the heart of Venice, this nice bed and breakfast is in the Cannaregio District. Part of a noble 14th century historic palace, this B&B is a quality choice for your bed and breakfast stay in Venice.


At Home a Palazzo
http://www.italialodging.com/est/athomeapalazzo/
"At Home A Palazzo" is situated in Venice, on the third floor of Ca´Pesaro Papafava, noble 14th century palace, recently renovated, very large, around 500 metres squared. The east wing is reserved for guests, the rooms are bright with a wide view over neighbouring houses. It is situated before the Abbazia della Misericordia and the Scuola Grande della Misericordia - Boat No. 1, Ca´ d´Oro halt (2 minutes on foot). The ground floor entrance hall has also a door overlooking the waterway, hence the possibility of mooring water taxis. The bed and breakfast offers high quality service, refined, exclusive yet warm atmosphere.

Choose your charming bed and breakfast in Venice with Italia Lodging

Siena Hotels

Finally we are able to offer at least two nice and charming hotels in Siena.

If you are able to find a wide range of accommodation in Tuscany and in the surroundings of this fantastic city, the selection of Hotels in the city of Siena itself has been a problem for us at Italia Lodging for a long period.

The city which is home to the famous "Palio" horse race and a historic home to artists, the archetypal art city, Siena is without any doubt one of the nicest cities in all of Italy.

Here you have short overview of our hotels in Siena:

BORGO GRONDAIE
http://www.italialodging.com/est/borgogrondaie/
The charming Hotel & Apartments Borgo Grondaie, built out of an old Tuscan farm, just two kilometres out of Siena centre, was completely renovated in 2001. Although it's rural and rustic setting, Borgo Grondaie offers guests all the facilities of a modern hotel. Located in the middle of a secular park, it's a perfect base to visit Siena and for day trips in the Wine Region. The accommodation is partly hotel with rooms, and partly residence with independent apartments


SANTA CATERINA
http://www.italialodging.com/est/hotelsantacaterina/
Santa Caterina Hotel, a small and comfortable accommodation in the heart of Siena, near Piazza del Campo. The Hotel Santa Caterina in Siena, obtained by transforming an 18th century patrician villa into a small cosy hotel is situated just a few metres away from " Porta Romana " one of the medieval gate entrances to the historical centre of Siena. The wide and luxuriant garden where breakfast is served in the veranda offers a beautiful view over the splendid Sienese landscapes. All the rooms are furnished as the lounge in the typical ancient Tuscan style


Italia Lodging - Charming accommodation in Italy

Rome Zoo: A Moral Dilemma

An interesting curiuosity:

Rome, August 30 - A baby giraffe born unexpectedly at Rome's zoo this month is to be transferred to a nature reserve in Africa, officials at the Rome Biopark announced on Wednesday .

Under a strict policy imposed by the city council, wild animals at Rome's zoo are never allowed to reproduce on the grounds that their young will be forced into an unnatural lifestyle .

Most of the animals that the zoo hosts were born elsewhere and then 'rescued' by the zoo authorities at a certain point in their lives .

In line with this policy two female giraffes were transferred last June from an overcrowded zoo in the Czech Republic. It was not known at the time that one of them was pregnant .

Giraffes who are expecting babies do not become noticeably fatter, so it was complete surprise on August 13 when a baby, weighing 70 kilos and measuring 170 cm from hoof to horns, was born. That left the zoo authorities with the problem of what to do with an animal they believed it unethical to keep .

Italia Lodging Rome - bed and breakfast and Rome charming Hotels