Arte Umbria August Newsletter is out !

Genoa Village Honors Faithful Dogs in Annual August Ceremony

For the dog lovers amongst us

Camogli beach

Since 1962, man’s best friend has been honored in San Rocco di Camogli every 16 August. The small town near Genoa has been celebrating doggie loyalty for nearly 50 years.

The tradition in San Rocco was born from the faithfulness of a famous dog named Pucci. Pucci found his way to San Rocco after being abandoned by his owners. Every morning for ten years, the pup would wait in front of the church for children on their way to school.

After accompanying them to class, Pucci the dog would wait for them to be released for recreation hour to play and eat whatever food they offered. He would then walk them back from school to church.

Inspired by the loyalty of the dog, Giacinto Crescini came up with the idea of starting a Dog Loyalty Award, tying the honor to the feast of San Rocco, patron saint of the village and, coincidentally, the protector of dogs.

Since the first award that went to Pucci in 1962, many memorable dogs have been recognized. Perhaps the most incredible story of loyalty is attributed to Ares the Doberman, who led helpers back to his owner when the man became trapped under a collapsed gate.

The Minister of Tourism, Michela Vittoria Brambilla, is expected to attend today's canine festivities.

Venice Reaches Tourism Snapping Point

With the Rialto Bridge in desperate need of repairs, increased flooding, and residents in an uproar over crowds, Venice has reached a breaking point.

Last week, Venetian police announced that the city was officially closed to cars because they had simply run out of room. Bridges were backed up, parking lots were clogged and the extra traffic was wreaking havoc on daily life.

It seems as though the island city has hit full capacity. Venice cannot accommodate more visitors without further risk to its delicate landmarks.

The numbers are simply astounding- the small northern Italian city hosts up to 60,000 tourists a day from April to October during the high season.

Now frantic for new funds, the city of Venice has decided to levy a tourism tax on visitors staying overnight.

Officials had initially toyed with the idea of charging an entrance fee at the train station, airport or cruise terminal. However, the plan that will go into effect on 24 August will only tax overnight guests. A 5 Euro charge per person will be added to hotel bills.

Critics condemn the additional tax is a rash attempt to salvage the city from overuse and destruction that will come as too little too late. Many argue that the current situation could have been avoided if planning and oversight had been a part of the city’s tourism strategy from the beginning.