This week brings a mix of new openings, fascinating discoveries and summer developments with connections to Italian food, culture and travel.
Scott Conant opens Roman God of Fire in Arizona
Chef Scott Conant has teamed up with Phoenix-based hospitality group Pretty Decent Concepts to open Roman God of Fire, a new Roman-inspired Italian restaurant in Tempe, Arizona. The 8,000-square-foot restaurant officially opened Aug. 7, with a design inspired by old-world cathedrals, Italian stonework, arches and statues.
“Italian food has always been about soul, generosity, and connection,” said Chef Scott Conant. “I’m excited to collaborate with Pretty Decent Concepts in creating a space that captures that spirit while also offering something fresh and inspiring. We’re building a dining experience that surprises, and delights, while paying tribute to the traditions that inspire it.”
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Ancient Roman shipwreck with 500 amphorae found off Sicily
A Roman shipwreck more than 2,100 years old has been discovered off the coast of Mazara del Vallo in western Sicily. The vessel was found about three miles offshore at a depth of roughly 150 feet and contains around 500 amphorae, the ceramic vessels that were commonly used to transport Italian wine and other goods throughout the Mediterranean.
The ship dates to between the second and first centuries B.C. Researchers hope further study of the wreck will offer new information about ancient Mediterranean trade and the routes that once connected Sicily with the wider Roman world.
Italy extends attraction hours during extreme heat
Italy is giving visitors more opportunities to explore some of its best-known attractions after dark as extreme heat continues across the country. All 27 cities monitored by Italy's heat-warning system were placed under the highest red alert last week, with officials urging residents and visitors to avoid the sun during the hottest hours and stay hydrated.
Evening hours have been extended at attractions including Rome's Colosseum and Pantheon and Milan's Sforza Castle. Cooling mist fans and additional medical stations have also been introduced at the Colosseum, giving summer travelers more options for sightseeing while avoiding the worst of the daytime heat.
The shift toward later sightseeing also fits naturally with one of Italy's favorite summer traditions: lingering over dinner once the heat of the day begins to fade. For travelers, an evening visit to a landmark can easily be followed by an aperitivo or a late meal, when Italian cities come back to life after the hottest hours.
Mount Etna eruption disrupts Sicily flights
Mount Etna's ongoing volcanic activity is causing significant travel disruptions in Sicily during the busy Ferragosto travel period. Flights at Catania Airport remained suspended Thursday because of volcanic ash, with the suspension of arrivals extended until 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 14.
The current activity began Aug. 6 and has produced unusually heavy amounts of ash, leading to hundreds of cancellations, diversions and delays. Travelers flying through Catania are being advised to check their flight status with their airline before heading to the airport as conditions continue to change.
Beyond being one of the world's most active volcanoes, Etna is also one of Sicily's celebrated wine regions. Vineyards grow in volcanic soils shaped by centuries of eruptions. The same volcano disrupting travel this week is an integral part of the region's food and wine identity.
