The Tramontana

I love the way winds in Italy have names.

Today it was the 'tramontana' - a cold northerly that brings clear air. Chilly on our house hunting.

Here we are back in the Casentino at a house at about 550m alt. with the most spectacular views.

Dante was here also and fought in some famous battle between the Guelfi and Ghibbelini.

Our neighbour, a banker working on Italy's credit problems and massive non-performing loans, tells us there has never been a better time to buy a house.

Exciting and terrifying in about equal measure. Dante knew a fair bit about that too.

Many many thanks for comments and your messages of support. Sorry I have not had time to reply always individually.  It means a lot. Thank you.