Tante Belle Cose: February in Italy

Even though it's a short month, there was lots happening in Italy, and lots to be happy about (that is, if you're not an immigration official based in Lampedusa - Italy's most southern outpost and just miles from the Tunisian-Libyan borders...).  

First off, we were all delighted to hear about the opening of the house of the Vestal Virgins - appropriately timed to Berlusconi's opening of his homes and apartments to those, say, a bit less virtuous...
A full report is offered here by RomeReports
I'll be even more delighted to attempt to see it tomorrow...and try my luck at the 'Free entrance on your Birthday' to Rome's museums&monuments.  Problem is, I was born on Leap Year - we'll see if I can talk my way around this - perhaps I should bring my dog Trevor as a sacrifice?

Down in Sicily, important artefacts were found in the homes of two presumed tombaroli (grave robbers), and who are being prosecuted for having stolen them or ordered them stolen. 

As for our dear TV personality, Mike Bongiorno, the grave robbers who didn't settle for the loot, but the body itself, have put in a bribe request of 300.000 euro (approx. $400,000). Hoping these nefarious thieves get caught red-handed.

Italy at the forefront of imposing biodegradable plastic bags is off and running.  These bags are cooler feeling, much much stronger, and are (supposedly) going to decompose in the trash heaps. 
Compare this with wasteful USA, which now gives you about 3 bags per item, they're so weak they can't hold a carton of milk & a loaf of Wonderbread.  This is something that every country on earth should be demanding.  I just wish we could flash forward 5000 years to see if the claims are, in fact, correct.

And, finally, the month ends with the third edition of the Rome Carneval, being held until 8th of March in Piazza del Popolo.   You can check out all the activities going on there at:  www.carnevale.roma.it 
I for one don't need any further rationale for pigging out on the Carneval treats...