Citimarks

Home
Citimarks

A literary travel guide to explore timeless marks of fabulous cities.

Citimarks is a new, literary guide that takes travelers on a journey to explore the soul of a city. With the help of travel notes, memoirs and city stories published by famous writers, Citimarks opens a dialogue with the past to identify timeless trademarks: landscapes, customs and lifestyles which survived through the centuries and form the unique identity of a city. Contemporary creative talents

–such as writers, musicians, filmmakers, and chefs- draw their own city portraits and share their favorite 24-hour itineraries, beyond the reach of tourist maps.

16/07/2024

- “If Naples were a film, which one would it be?”

- “ ‘Così Parlò Bellavista’ by Luciano De Crescenzo. The film –based on De Crescenzo’s homonymous novel- is the perfect depiction of the Neapolitan lifestyle. It recounts the nonchalant routine of a building whose residents spend their day listening to the philosophies of a rich retired philosopher, called Bellavista. The calmness of the old palazzo will soon be disrupted by the arrival of a director from Milan, a city that represents the opposite of everything Naples stands for. The clash between two cities’ philosophies serve as a lever for a delightful satire of Naples’ spirit of “far niente”: of taking things slowly, of endlessly arguing without making any decisions, going round and round in circles.”

Our interviewee is called Dominique Alves Da Silva, an illustrator born in Brazil and raised in Naples. In the aforementioned excerpt, she talks about the film that she considers most representative of the culture and lifestyle of its people.

Discover more about Naples as seen through the eyes of a young artist and check-out her “24 hours in Naples” itinerary of favorite places to visit, eat, and be inspired at citimarks.com, link in the first comment.

04/07/2024

For as long as Dominique can remember, she has always held a pencil and a sketchbook. Born in Maceió, a Brazilian port city renowned for its stunning beaches, she was a young girl when her family moved to Naples, a place steeped in over two thousand years of history. Early on, the Parthenopean city inspired Dominique to draw cartoons that humorously and ironically depicted her family’s everyday life.

Her favorite drawings are those created for historic comic books, where she skillfully blends real and imaginary stories. When she isn’t sketching, she loves exploring the streets of Naples. “It is a fantastic city,” she says. “Naples is rich in everything: history, architecture, art.”

Her enthusiasm for Neapolitan culture drove Dominique to work as a tour guide in her free time; she wants to help travelers discover the pure, authentic soul of the city that she got to know as a child when she walked its streets for the first time.

Discover the vibrant city of Naples as seen and admired by Dominique Alves Da Silva, a bright young artist with an open mind and a heart of gold. Check out her city portrait and discover her 24-hour itinerary of favorite places to visit, eat, and explore at citimarks.com, link in the first comment.

22/06/2024

Since antiquity, Capri had already established itself as a renowned resort, attracting Roman Emperors one after another. Roman historian Tacitus recorded that there were no fewer than 12 imperial villas in Capri—some of which survived in ruins through the 19th century.

Abandoned in oblivion throughout the Middle Ages, Capri made a comeback thanks to the rediscovery of the famous Blue Grotto drawing numerous English and French travelers of the “Grand Tour’’. These cultured and highly impressionable young men were more than thrilled to visit an island with such magnetizing power over Emperors they had read about in their Latin studies.

Their enthusiastic travel notes transformed Capri into the most coveted destination for Europe’s elite to settle in, at the turn of the 20th century. Countless artists, including painters such as John Singer Sargent and Christian Wilhelm Allers, doctors like Emil von Behring and Axel Munthe, and renowned writers such as Norman Douglas and Maxim Gorky, either purchased a villa in Capri or rented one for periods exceeding three months. Among the most iconic villas on the island were those belonging to the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe, the Italian writer Curzio Malaparte, and the French poet Baron Fersen.

Discover Capri’s emblematic villas and the tumultuous stories of their owners in our new travel guide dedicated to Capri, at Citimarks, link in the first comment.

13/06/2024

Rich in steep verdant cliffs, pine forests, lush gardens, sparkling turquoise waters, and sapphire-blue caves, Capri epitomizes the concept of dramatic beauty in its entirety—a drama unfolding from the landscape’s contrasts, stretched to the extreme: bare rocks emerging from wild groves, blinding light playing with deep shadows, and sharp peaks crowning its cozy caves.

The island’s beauty is not rooted in an Apollonian realm seeking balance, filling gaps, and inspiring harmony; it embodies a Dionysian kind of beauty, drawing power from constant optical tension that stimulates the senses, disorienting the gaze so swiftly that the spirit yearns to retreat and savor the moment. If Capri were an art movement, it would be the Italian Baroque; if it were a music genre, it would be jazz: irregular, unpredictable, and extravagantly dramatic.

Explore the Dionysian beauty of Capri through the lens of talented writers and check-out our favorite spots to enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean. At Citimarks, link in the first comment.

21/05/2024

In the 12th book of the Odyssey, Ulysses and his crew venture into the land of the Sirens. The sweet and melancholic singing of these beautiful creatures, with their womanly heads and winged bodies, lured every sailor to their demise.

As the ferry boat from Naples approached the shores that Ulysses’s crew is famed to have sailed past thousands of years ago, the tale haunted my mind. “This must be the place!” I murmured to myself. If the Sirens symbolized a seductive spirit potent enough to kill, then Capri must be the very land, the sole land to exude such captivating energy. For those who have traversed the magnificent landscapes of the Amalfi Coast—boasting enchanting villages like Ravello, Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi—and explored the Gulf of Naples, it’s difficult to envision many other places in the ancient world more conducive to inspiring Homer to extend the strings of his dramatic flair.

Amidst this array of breathtaking shores, the island of Capri emerges as the jewel in the crown. With its dramatic beauty, Capri has consistently attracted power, kindled passion, and courted death. Indeed, for certain notorious figures, including Roman Emperors, European intellectuals, and Hollywood stars, the island encapsulated all of these elements within a single tumultuous lifetime. Today, the island is the ultimate destination for the international jet-set.

Explore Capri, land of “exclusive balconies for elegant suicides” as the Italian futurist poet Marinetti once noted, through the lens of talented writers captivated by its charm, in a new, dedicated guide. At Citimarks, link in the first comment.

06/05/2024

When the French writer Louis Aragon met Matisse in Nice in 1941, it was the beginning of a long friendship. Over many years, they worked side by side and, even when apart, exchanged letters.

In 1971, Aragon honored his lifelong friend with a dedicated book. He recognized the enduring connection between Matisse and Nice, since the painter’s arrival in the city in 1917 and his deep affinity for places like the Ponchettes district and the heights of Cimiez: “Nice - particularly the Ponchettes district, where he first settled, and later on, the heights of Cimiez - is closely linked to the glory of Matisse. […] In his paintings, Nice serves as the backdrop through the windows Matisse opens. Behind those marvelous open windows, the sky is as blue as the color of Matisse’s eyes behind his glasses. It’s a dialogue of mirrors. Nice gazes at the painter and reflects in his eyes. […]”

Dive into Matisse’s enchanting relationship with “Nissa la Bella” in the article “Matisse’s garden” of our French Riviera guide and explore the most stunning natural landscapes at Citimarks, link in the first comment.

27/04/2024

Théodore Faullain de Banville (1823-1891) was considered one of the most eminent poets of his time. He combined Romanticism and Parnassianism in his work, of which he was one of the precursors.

He professed an exclusive love for beauty and the universal clarity of the poetic act, opposing both realistic poetry and the degeneration of Romanticism. Encouraged by his friends, Victor Hugo and Théophile Gautier, he dedicated himself to poetry and associated with some of the most non-conformist literary circles.

De Banville dedicates a highly poetic description of Nice: “In this place, beneath the warm blue December sky, the climate is gentle; winter dons a robe of sunrays, a magical, fairylike blossoming persists, and above all… the sea; a sea serenading us with its enchanted lullaby. Everything here whispers, ‘Fall asleep; nothing is worth the pain of nothing; let yourself die, let yourself live!’ Who can describe the irresistible allure of the Mediterranean Sea, barely rippled by the wind in tiny undulating folds like the airy tunic of a sleeping nymph?”

Explore the irresistible depths of De Banville’s ode to Nice, and immerse yourself in the natural splendors of the Côte d’Azur through the eloquent prose of brilliant writers in our Guide to the French Riviera, at Citimarks, link in the first comment.

15/04/2024

If you have a fondness for gardens, a visit to the exquisite Gardens of the prestigious Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild will fill you with joy. Perched atop the verdant hill of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the Rothschild family constructed a rose-colored villa - now a historic monument - surrounded by gardens of unparalleled elegance and opulence.

Begin your exploration at the musical fountains gently cascading up the hill, offering splendid vistas of the villa and the sea. Wander through nine themed gardens - French, Spanish, Japanese, Florentine, and Provençal - along with a magnificent rose garden, a stone garden, and a garden of Sevres.Return to the 1st-floor loggia of the 1912 mansion - designed like the bridge of a vessel - for an unforgettable panoramic view of the gardens, classified as one of the “Remarkable Gardens of France.”

Discover our favorite routes through the most stunning natural landscapes of the Côte d’Azur in the article “Matisse’s Garden” of our French Riviera guide, at Citimarks. Link in the first comment.

01/04/2024

Just a short distance from Syros’s Town Hall, you’ll discover the epitome of the island’s cultural advancement in the 19th century: the Apollon Theatre. Constructed in the 1860s by the Italian architect Pietro Sampò, this theatre has often been likened to a miniature version of Milan’s renowned La Scala, drawing influences from Naples and Florence as well.

The theatre captivates visitors with its opulent red-velvet concert hall and its magnificent cupola adorned with portraits of literary luminaries such as Homer, Aeschylus and Dante, alongside celebrated composers like Mozart and Verdi. In addition to its architectural splendour, the theatre offers visitors the opportunity to explore a treasure trove of theatrical history. The collection includes costumes, old scripts and billboards, photographs, and personal belongings belonging to famous Greek actors from the early 20th century.

The dressing rooms, meticulously designed to recreate the enchanting world behind the scenes, invite visitors to immerse themselves in the magical ambiance of the theatre. Gérard de Nerval (1808–1855), a prominent literary figure of the French Romanticism era, vividly recounts an evening at the Apollon, where patrons would discreetly extinguish their pipes as a gesture of respect for their English counterparts.

Explore Ermoupoli’s exquisite neoclassical architecture that became Syros’s timeless, distinctive trademark in the new article “High Society” at Citimarks, Link in the 1st comment.

26/03/2024

Around 1830, as Athens’s streets were being paved with tar to accommodate the carriage of King Otto from Bavaria, the nation’s new ruler, Ermoupoli, the capital city of Syros, was laying marble ground for the construction of Neoclassical edifices designed by internationally renowned architects.

The crowning jewel of that new architecture was none other than the iconic Town Hall. Erected in 1876, this monumental structure was entrusted to the esteemed Saxon architect, Ernst Ziller, with the directive to create ‘a palace.’ The imposing facade of the building stretches an impressive 70 metres in length, perched atop a grand marble staircase spanning 15 metres in width. Its grand dimensions and prestigious allure evoke the magnificence of the City Hall in Noto, Sicily, both rising theatrically above the ground. The second floor of the Town Hall hosts a series of impressive meeting rooms, offering splendid views of the sea. On the ground floor, a neoclassical-style cafeteria, adorned with a chess-floored patio, is surrounded by a beautiful loggia.

At the entrance, an elegant marble staircase surrounds the statue of Dimitris Vafiadakis (1804-1898), Mayor of Syros from 1870 to 1887 and again from 1895 to 1898. Vafiadakis, a banker, shipowner, and industrialist originally from Chios island, oversaw the construction of the Town Hall building during his tenure as Mayor. His statue was crafted by Lazaros Sochos (1857-1911).

Explore the most remarkable buildings that bestowed upon Syros a polished, elegant appearance, becoming its timeless and most distinctive trademark, in the article “High Society” at Citimarks, link in the first comment.

20/03/2024

«What unfolded here, a century ago, was unprecedented anywhere else. In Syros, Greece experienced a renaissance,» proclaimed Eleftherios Venizelos, one of the greatest leaders of the Greek State and an alumnus of Syros’s «Royal High School» one of the oldest in Greece. His words resonated deeply.

Syros’s fortunate state of peace during the Greek struggle for national independence through the 19th century, coupled with its advantageous geographic position in the heart of the Aegean Sea, transformed the island into an ideal refuge for hundreds of sailors, merchants and ship-owners. In less than 50 years, these enterprising newcomers established factories, a shipyard, a new port and other vital infrastructure, laying the foundation for Syros to evolve into the largest trade and industrial hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The island’s economic boom translated into higher living standards. The ascending bourgeoisie funded the creation of luxurious mansions, a Private Club, and a Theater House akin to Italian standards - both of them being the first of their kind in Greece. The architecture they left behind stands as an undeniable witness to the island’s glorious past, and a precious gift that bestowed Syros with a distinctive, timeless elegance.Explore the island’s magnificent architecture through the amazed eyes of talented writers and visitors alike.

Delve into the brand new article “High Society’’ to uncover the rich tapestry of Syros’s aristocratic history - at Citimarks, link in the 1st comment.

10/03/2024

“If you had 24 hours in Paris all to yourself, where would you like to go for a morning walk, explore art, grab lunch, go shopping?” Laurent Lise-Cabasset is a Paris-based French architect, an Opera fan, and active member of an NGO dedicated to the restoration of Beirut’s architectural heritage.

For Citimarks, Laurent embarks on a journey to explore the evolution of the city’s architecture through emblematic edifices, while exploring timeless traits of the Parisian soul.

Check-out his unique city portrait, insider tips and a 24-hour itinerary in Paris, at Citimarks.com, link in the first comment.

01/03/2024

“If Paris were a film, which one would it be? If it were a piece of music? A pastry?”Laurent Lise-Cabasset is a Paris-based French architect and active member of an NGO dedicated to the restoration of Beirut’s architectural heritage.

For Citimarks, Laurent invites us on a journey to explore iconic Parisian monuments and delve into the authentic soul of the Parisians.

Discover his captivating city portrait, insider tips and a 24-hour itinerary in Paris, at Citimarks.com, link in the first comment.

25/02/2024

Upon our first encounter with French architect Laurent Lise-Cabasset, amidst the charm of an Athenian terrace, we swiftly discovered our mutual passion for Paris. With each anecdote he shared, it felt like we were weaving a tapestry of Parisian experiences, rich with memories, scents, and sounds.

Paris served as the nucleus of Laurent’s upbringing, with each summer of his childhood spent immersed in the City of Lights. “I was captivated by the magnificent axis connecting the Louvre palace, the Place de la Concorde, the Arc de Triomphe and the Grande Arche,” he reminisces, “this axis embodies the essence of France’s history. It symbolizes a narrative of evolution amidst continuity and continuity amidst change”. That panorama of diverse urban frames undoubtedly sharpened Laurent’s ability to discern harmony and beauty, potentially influencing his decision to pursue architecture in the very city that honed his keen eye.

For Citimarks, Laurent explores Paris’s most emblematic monuments across the decades, including one of his all-time favorites, the Opéra Garnier. As a perceptive observer of behavior patterns, he paints a delightful portrait of the timeless Parisian personality, capturing their unapologetic impertinence and the need to display their bond with Paris -when briefly pausing from complaining about their beloved city.

Our discussion pinpointed a lesser-suspected aspect of Parisian life: that of a city molded within conflicting duos – pride and complaint, audacity and reserve, change and continuity. Parisian architecture is, perhaps, the most indicative of the city’s timeless struggle between the pursuit to embody the zeitgeist –the spirit of the age- while staying true to its authentic identity.

Discover Laurent’s Paris, a city rising above these paradoxes, radiating its magnificent allure to us all, at Citimarks - link in the first comment.

22/02/2024

«The Masked Ball» featured on our cover is a captivating genre scene painted by Charles Hermans (1839–1924), a notable representative of Belgian realism. This artwork vividly portrays one of the lavish masked balls characteristic of late 19th-century society, attended by both elite members and women from the demi-monde. The composition immerses viewers in the lively atmosphere of a grand velvet-draped theater hall teeming with revelers engaged in conversation, dance, and revelry. Many of the depicted men were prominent figures of the era, adding historical depth to the scene. Hermans skillfully captures the bustling energy and festive chaos of a night at the theater.

In Gustave Flaubert’s renowned masterpiece, «Madame Bovary», the tragic protagonist, Emma, yearns for the glamorous Parisian nights depicted in Hermans’ painting. Stifled by her life in a small Normandy village and constrained by the limitations of her marriage to Doctor Charles Bovary, Emma seeks solace in elaborate daydreams. Through her fantasies, she escapes to the bustling streets of Paris, longing for a life of excitement and fulfillment.

Paris itself is a city tailor-made for daydreamers like Emma. Its grand boulevards, picturesque vistas, architectural marvels, and opulent mansions provide endless inspiration for the imagination.

Explore the allure of «Bovarism» and delve into the essence of Parisian daydreaming in our new article at Citimarks. Link in the first comment.

17/02/2024

Have you ever encountered individuals who seem to resist acknowledging the everyday realities of a situation? Perhaps you’ve come across those who prefer to envision themselves as valiant heroes in a self-created, fictional and romantic world? In 1892, French philosopher Jules de Gaultier coined a term for this psychological syndrome: he called it Bovarism, drawing inspiration from Emma Bovary, the tragic heroine in Flaubert’s eponymous novel, and the central focus of his thesis.

Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880), a prominent figure in the realist movement and one of the most influential authors of all time, intricately captures the captivating allure of a young provincial lady for the glamorous Paris with details that approach perfection. In “Madame Bovary,” Emma, the wife of Doctor Charles Bovary, finds herself confined to a small village in Normandy, limited in avenues for fulfillment. Faced with the monotony of provincial life, Emma seeks refuge in a realm of perpetual daydreams.

Within her fantasies, she visualizes strolling through the streets of Paris—a city she wishes to “live and die”. Emma imagines herself dancing elegant waltzes on velvet carpets with distinguished ambassadors, sipping champagne from crystal glasses.This exquisite novel represents a serious and insightful exploration of human psychology, particularly delving into the emotional and mental states of women struggling to find their place in the world.

Discover the dreamlike aspect of Paris through the lens of Emma Bovary and Gustave Flaubert at Citimarks, link in the first comment.

12/02/2024

On December 30, 1860, the French Emperor Napoleon III initiated a competition for the design of a new, state-funded opera house. This initiative was a component of an extensive urban renewal program commissioned by the Emperor to Paris’s prefect, Baron Haussmann. In three decades Haussmann transformed a city still bearing the marks of the Middle Ages into a state-of-the-art, spacious, and ultra-lavish metropolis.

After fourteen years of intricate construction works, Jean-Louis Charles Garnier, a 35-year-old Parisian architect, presented Paris with the largest Opera House of its time. Due to its grandeur, opulence, and extensive ornamentation, the «Palais Garnier» stood as the jewel in the crown of the new city.

The edifice represents a Neo-Baroque-inspired eclectic style, prevalent during the Beaux-Arts period in France. Garnier drew inspiration from the Italianate styles of Renaissance artisans like Palladio, Sansovino, and Michelangelo.

Opera Garnier served as a venue for the ascending bourgeoisie to flaunt their newly acquired wealth and social status. The interior features a grand ceremonial staircase, interweaving corridors, alcoves and balconies, facilitating the movement and socialization of large crowds during intermission.

Abundant in velvet, gold leaf, cherubs and nymphs, the ambiance radiates Baroque splendor. The opulent ornamentation of the Grand Foyer Hall brings the stately allure of Versailles to the heart of Paris. A visit to this architectural masterpiece is an undeniable “must”.

Explore the most elegant Parisian landmarks in the article “Bovarism” of our Paris guide, at Citimarks — link in the first comment.

02/02/2024

“If you had 24 hours in Venice all to yourself, where would you prefer to take a morning walk, explore art, grab lunch, go shopping?” Venice-based cultural connoisseur and host of extraordinary house dinners, Mimi Todhunter, unveils the secrets of the ‘art of living’ in the City of the Doges.

Explore Mimi’s delightful city portrait and a 24-hour itinerary of her favorite places in Venice, beyond the reach of tourist maps at Citimarks, link in the first comment.

26/01/2024

If Venice were a film, which one would it be? If it were a piece of music? A plate?

Mimi Todhunter, a renowned cultural connoisseur, famous for hosting magnificent dinner parties in her palazzo by the Grand Canal, crafts a distinctive city portrait woven from life memories, tips, and insider information about the glorious “Serenissima” - at Citimarks, link in the first comment.

19/01/2024

Curious about what it’s like to live in a Venetian palazzo in modern times? Mimi Todhunter, a cultural connoisseur and resident of a splendid palace by the Grand Canal, reveals the secrets of the ‘art of living’ in the City of the Doges.

A cosmopolitan by nature, Mrs Todhunter departed her native New Zealand at an early age. Formerly residing in London, her husband’s business affairs with Italian textile houses prompted their relocation to Schio, a village in the suburbs of Vicenza, and eventually to Venice. Raised in a home that perpetually welcomed friends and family, she continued the tradition: “What better way to meet and connect with interesting people than inviting them over?” she rightly points out.

Mimi knows Venice like the back of her hand and vice-versa: there is no cultural event in town where she wouldn’t be invited. Friends fly in to attend her dinner parties, celebrated not only for their delightful cuisine, but also for the ‘arts de la table’ – the art of table setting. Endowed with refined taste, Mimi supports Venetian artists working in glass, textile, pottery and silverware -during a time when craftsmanship struggles against massive production. Additionally, she possesses a natural talent for bringing people together who can match with each other, creating an atmosphere where conversations can flourish.

Step aboard for a journey through an idyllic city portrait. Mimi Todhunter guides us on a magical tour showcasing the very best of what the City of the Doges can offer - at Citimarks, link in the first comment.

15/01/2024

Fortnum & Mason stands as one of London’s iconic upscale food stores, established in 1707 by William Fortnum and Hugh Mason. Interestingly, Fortnum’s origins are traced, not to food, but to candles.

William Fortnum, once a footman in Queen Anne’s household, seized an opportunity to resell half-used wax from the royal family’s daily candle replacements. Fortnum, who also ran a side business as a grocer, convinced his landlord, Hugh Mason, to join forces, leading to the founding of the first Fortnum & Mason store.

The store diversified its offerings to include specialty items, particularly ready-to-eat luxury meals such as poultry or game served in aspic jelly. During the Napoleonic Wars, the emporium supplied spices, and preserves to British officers. Queen Victoria dispatched shipments of F&M’s concentrated beef tea to Florence Nightingale’s hospitals. Presently, Fortnum & Mason holds two royal warrants, the first granted by Queen Elizabeth II as Grocers and Provisions Merchants, and the second by King Charles III—then Prince of Wales—as Tea Merchants and Grocers.

Every day at 4 o’clock, visitors witness a unique show: two 1-meter-high models of William Fortnum and Hugh Mason emerge from a four-ton clock installed above the store’s main entrance, bowing to each other with chimes and 18th-century style music playing in the background.

A visit to the enchanting world of Fortnum & Mason offers not only a sheer pleasure of quality food shopping -especially preserves and biscuits in fabulously colored tins- but also an opportunity to encounter the modern “ladies & gentlemen” of London. It’s an experience worth remembering.

Join us on a journey through the London of the gentlemen, discovering city stories by world-known writers at Citimarks, link in the first comment.

09/01/2024

Savile Row, located in the heart of Mayfair, London, has been renowned for its traditional bespoke tailoring for men for over two centuries.

Originally named Savile Street, it was constructed in the 1730s in a Burlingtonian style—an interpretation of Palladian architecture.

Tailors began establishing their businesses at the turn of the 18th century. In 1846, Henry Poole, credited as the creator of the dinner jacket, opened an entrance to Savile Row from his tailoring premises in Old Burlington Street. The term “bespoke” is understood to have originated in Savile Row when cloth for a suit was said to “be spoken for” by individual customers. The short street has been termed the “golden mile of tailoring”, where customers have included Charles III, Winston Churchill, Lord Nelson, Napoleon III, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Laurence Olivier and Duke Ellington.

In 1969, Nutters of Savile Row emerged as a trailblazer pioneering ‘open windows’ and striking displays, a concept crafted by Simon Doonan—later the Creative Director of Barneys NYC. The founder, Tommy Nutter, renowned for reinventing the Savile Row suit, is widely acclaimed for his iconic designs, including Bianca Jagger’s wedding suit and the suits worn by three of the Beatles on the front cover of Abbey Road.

Embark on an exploration of the enduring spirit of the English gentleman, a timeless archetype in British culture, as perceived by talented writers. Join us on a journey through the London of gentlemen at Citimarks. Link in the first comment.

03/01/2024

“What is a gentleman?” The question has intrigued numerous writers over the centuries. Among them, Hippolyte Taine (1828 – 1893) provides a well-studied response.

A 19th-century critic and historian, Taine is renowned for his meticulous observation and dedication to accuracy, influencing French realism -a literary movement committed to portraying life and local customs with the precision of a photograph.In his “Notes of England”, Taine provides a comprehensive depiction of English society, capturing some of London’s most recognizable archetypes, including the gentleman.

According to Taine, the gentleman embodies a sense of conscience, displaying a willingness to sacrifice himself for the well-being of those he guides. Taine’s insightful perspective offers a nuanced understanding of the social fabric of 19th-century England.

Explore the spirit of the English gentleman, a timeless archetype in British culture, as perceived by talented writers. Join us on a journey through the London of gentlemen at Citimarks.com, link in the first comment.

28/12/2023

“If you had 24 hours in London all to yourself, where would you prefer to take a morning walk, explore art, grab lunch, or enjoy drinks?” In London, the writer and journalist Edith Fishta skillfully crafts a captivating city portrait. A tapestry rich with memories, insider tips, and details unveiling the timeless traits of Londoners’ lifestyles.

Join us on Edith’s captivating 24-hour itinerary, which includes favorite pubs like , The Cow Saloon Bar & Dining Rooms, The Prince Alfred Pub Maida Vale, magnificent tea rooms like the one at The Wolseley (cover pic), intimate restaurants such as Clos Maggiore, and cocktail bars like Aqua Spirit.

Discover more by clicking the link in the first comment and immerse yourself in the London experience.

Address

Website

http://www.citimarks.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Citimarks posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Citimarks:

Videos

Explore the magnificent island of Capri, a paradise rich in history, villas and glamorous scandals, through the lens of famous writers at Citimarks — #travelguide #travelphotography #instatravel #beautifuldestinations #capri #Caprigram #italy #italia #italie

“Paris by night Random night that takes us by the hand And leaves us in the morning Paris by night What makes me happy is that Tomorrow we will regret only the things we remember” These lyrics by French songwriter Bénabar describe the high expectations Parisians have from their after-dark adventures: “we will regret only of the things we remember”. One must keep in mind that the City of Lights, in the morning, does a pretty good job in concealing the party animal hidden in the depths of the Parisian soul. If partying is a collective trait that runs in their blood, passing from father to son, then we should look back at the Parisian interwar years, when history was written in quill pens soaked in liquor. Discover the cosmopolitan, libertine Paris of the Roaring Twenties through the eyes of the talented French novelist Joseph Kessel and check-out our favorite clubs and neo-cabarets at the brand new article “Le Cabaret” at Citimarks https://bit.ly/3K1DB21

“Le Bon Marché”, Paris’ oldest department store, introduced countless new features in architecture, interior design and marketing practices: High ceilings, natural and artificial light, luxurious elevators, and of course, a grandiose staircase. Over 150 years later, in 1990, Andrée Putman, a French designer famous for her ability to revive the modern movement, brought the old staircase into the modern age, by designing a double metallic escalator. Its simplicity, sleek look and geometric motifs made this escalator iconic. A creation that resonated well with the designer’s ambition to join the useful with the beautiful. Explore the story of “Le Bon Marché”, a symbol of the Parisians’ timeless taste, mercantile spirit, and talent in displaying their goods, in the article “The Art of Display”; at the end of the article. Check-out our favorite storefronts and elegant shops in town at Citimarks https://bit.ly/3vLQyGE

Naples' grocery bucket system

The Neapolitans didn’t need to wait for a global pandemic to start having their groceries delivered at home. For centuries now, they have been deploying a system that works to perfection: the grocery bucket: just walk around a few residential streets and it won't be long until you spot a delivery boy. He will show up with a couple of grocery bags, let out a cry and wait for the bucket, firmly tied with a rope, to come down from a house balcony. He will take the cash from the bucket and place the grocery order inside. Before you know it, the bucket will be pulled back up from an invisible hand, and the delivery boy will already be on his way to the next grocery order. Discover the outdoor living of the Neapolitans through the eyes of talented writers; check out our favorite architectural sites and spots with splendid views in the article “Under the Balcony” of our Naples guide, at Citimarks https://bit.ly/3E0X9kZ.

The glamorous French Riviera! For over two centuries, Royals and tycoons, gigolos and courtisans, painters and writers have been falling under the spell of the idyllic “Côte d’Azur” making it the most coveted jet-setter destination on earth. Explore the fascinating history of the Riviera through the eyes of famous writers, in our new article “Crème de la Crème” at Citimarks https://bit.ly/37gjehs.

Shortcuts

Address
Alerts
Contact The Business
Videos
Claim ownership or report listing
Want your business to be the top-listed Travel Agency?

Country:

City: