CCR Remote Lecture: the Pantheon and the Sun - June 19, 2020

For centuries people have marveled at the Pantheon, and its purpose. One theory is the design is connected to the sun’s cycle. Was this the only monument like this, or were there others? As the summer solstice draws closer we look at ways in which the solar cycle has been celebrated in Rome through the centuries.

When: Friday, June 19, 2020,
Time: 6.00 p.m. Rome (Central European) Time.
Where: at your home (or where the remote lecture takes you).
Cost: €10 for members and €15 for non-members. Advance payment required payable by transfer to the CCR bank account.
RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Joe by 1 p.m. Central European Time on Wed. June 17, 2020. You are financially responsible for your reservation.

CCR Book Club - June 17, 2020

The final book club meeting of the CCR season will discuss "The Florios of Sicily" (I Leoni di Sicilia) by Stefania Auci. The book is available in Italian and English.

You will be able to join the June meeting in person (number limited to 10 maximum) or by Zoom. Our host has a very large terrace where social distancing is possible. If you wish to attend in person, please RSVP early. 

When: Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Where: by Zoom or on a large private terrace in the San Paolo area (Basilica San Paolo metro station); exact address sent to confirmed participants by email.

RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Luigi.

CCR Remote Lecture: Venice at the Crossroads - June 5, 2020

As the 15th century was ending, Venice faced many external pressures and had to decide what its future would be: remain an independent maritime power or become a regional Italian presence. This dilemma, and its eventual resolution, was reflected in the art and architecture of the time. 

Join us on a virtual tour of the city, its paintings, and its people just over five centuries ago.

When: Friday, June 5, 2020,

Time: 6.00 p.m. Rome (Central European) Time.

Where: at your home (and where the lecture takes you).

Cost: €10 for members and €15 for non-members. Advance payment required payable by transfer to the CCR bank account.

RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Joe by 1 p.m. Central European Time on Wed. June 3, 2020. You are financially responsible for your reservation.

CCR Remote Lecture: Venus de Milo - May 22, 2020

The ancient marble sculpture known as the Venus de Milo is today a prized possession of the Louvre in Paris. Although the work has achieved iconic status, visitors are not always aware of the many dramatic events in the work’s history, or why this became a work which for many defines the idea of classical Greek art.

Let’s spend a lazy evening (or morning, as the case may be), sipping on something refreshing, as we trace the statue’s history, which now spans over two thousand years and involves interesting ideas about identity, culture, nationhood, and gender.

When: Friday, May 22, 2020,

Time: 6.00 p.m. Rome (Central European) Time.

Where: at your home (and where the lecture takes you).

Cost: €10 for members and €15 for non-members. Advance payment required payable by transfer to the CCR bank account.

RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Joe by 1 p.m. Central European Time on Wed. May 20, 2020. You are financially responsible for your reservation.

CCR Remote Lecture: Boccaccio's Decameron - May 8, 2020

Summer 1348 -- seven young ladies and three young men escape plague-stricken Florence and take refuge in a deserted villa where they pass the evenings telling each other... one hundred stories! Written by Italian author Giovanni Boccaccio (1313-1375) during the Black Death epidemic (1348-1349), this is one of Italian literature’s defining works. Its mix of wit, licentiousness, lyrical and tragic aspects make it an unforgettable read, inspiring countless works ever since its first appearance up to modern times.

Join us in our very own virtual deserted villa as we retrace the genesis of stories which have fascinated people through the centuries.

When: Friday, May 8, 2020,
Time: 6.00 p.m. Rome (Central European) Time.
Where: at your home (and where the lecture takes you).
Cost: €10 for members and €15 for non-members. Advance payment required payable by transfer to the CCR bank account.
RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Joe by 1 p.m. Central European Time on Wed. May 6, 2020. You are financially responsible for your reservation.

CCR Remote Lecture: A Virtual Tour of the Acropolis Museum - April 24, 2020

A lucky mining project, a far-sighted political leader, a 50-year-old still-tentative democracy and a looming invasion. In the 5th C. BCE, this was the backdrop prior to Athens achieving cultural and military domination in the Mediterranean and its greatest glory.

Join us as we cross the Adriatic for a virtual visit (using slides, video clips and street views) of the Acropolis Museum in Athens and its stunning treasures.

When:  Friday, April 24, 2020,

Time:  6.00 p.m. Central European Time

Where: at your home (and where the lecture takes you).

Cost: €10 for members and €15 for non-members. Advance payment required payable by transfer to the CCR bank account.

RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Joe by 1 p.m. Central European Time on Wed. Apr. 22, 2020. You are financially responsible for your reservation.

CCR Remote Lecture & Aperitivo - April 10, 2020

While we all do our best to occupy and amuse ourselves under current restrictions to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak, a creative initiative by our very resourceful guide allows the CCR to propose one or more virtual lectures and bring us together -- at a very safe distance!

The first will be a lecture and virtual aperitivo by video link on the subject of Etruscan civilization, in lieu of the planned outing to Tarquinia, which will be rescheduled when possible. We'll mingle remotely for an aperitif and follow an interactive lecture on the fascinating Etruscans. Three areas will be covered: 1. their general history; 2. older beliefs and more recent theories about them; and 3. Etruscan daily life. The session will include pauses to ask questions, socialize and chill, and the event will last about 90 minutes.

All you need to participate is an internet connection, an email address, and a computer (or smartphone/tablet) with video camera/microphone capabilities. BYO glass of wine and munchies!

For technical reasons, this event is limited to ten participants with preference given to CCR members.

When: Friday, April 10, 2020

Time: 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: at your place!

Cost: €10 for members and €15 for non-members. Advance payment required.

RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Joe by Tue. Apr. 7, 2020. You are financially responsible for your reservation.

CCR Day Trip: Tarquinia - April 4, 2020

This event has been postponed.
The CCR's spring outing is going back into ancient history! We'll visit the ancient Etruscan necropolis at Tarquinia, with its stunning sculpted and painted tombs. CCR's expert guide will give us an in-depth understanding of this still rather mysterious ancient culture and the cities it built for its dead. The museum in the medieval town of Tarquinia holds some gorgeous artifacts that reveal the beauty of this ancient people.

After diving into Etruscan culture and history, we'll have an opportunity to taste the products of Etruscan descendants as we head to Etruscaia vineyard. We'll visit the winery as well as have lunch in these lovely surroundings! Lunch will include:

a welcome drink on the roof terrace

a selection of other Etruscaia wines to accompany

"Pappa al Pomodoro" (bread, tomato and basil soup)

a pasta dish with a seasonal vegetable

salad

dessert

coffee

When: Saturday, April 4, 2020
Transportation and timing: If you are planning to drive to Tarquinia, could you let us know whether you have extra spot in your vehicle for others? Of course, also let us know if you need a ride and we'll try to match you with a driver.
Cost: CCR members €50 total (i.e. €10 for the guide, €10 for a combo ticket to the Etruscan necropolis in the countryside and the museum in the centre of Tarquinia, and €30 for lunch, wine tasting and vineyard tour); non-CCR adults €55 total. CCR member children €25 total (€10 for the guide and €15 for lunch; museum and necropolis free), €30 for non-member children. Advance payment required.
RSVP to canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Marielle.

Guest Speaker: Canadian Wheat for Italian Pasta - February 26, 2020

Jennifer Fellows, the Trade Commissioner for agriculture, processed foods, fish and seafood at the Embassy of Canada in Italy, will provide us with a short overview of the ups and downs of the century-old pasta relationship between Canada and Italy, including some current controversies.

There will be a Q&A opportunity, followed by light refreshments.

When: Wednesday, February 26, 2020
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Where: Office of the Canadian Embassy to the Holy See, Via della Conciliazione 4-D
RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Marielle by Feb. 25 COB. Please provide your full name for security purposes and have photo ID on the day of the event in case it is requested.

CCR Book Club - February 23, 2020

For the next meeting the CCR Book Club choice will be "Normal People" by Irish author Sally Rooney, a winner of the British Book Award. This is a novel about young love between two teenagers from different social classes and much of it takes place on the campus of Trinity College in Dublin. The New York Times says, “You’ve likely heard of Rooney. She’s the young author, born in 1991 in the west of Ireland, who was excellently profiled by Lauren Collins last year in The New Yorker. She has written two fresh and accessible novels, “Conversations With Friends” (2017) and now “Normal People,” which have been met with euphoric reviews in the Anglo-Irish press." “Normal People” was longlisted for the Man Booker Prize. The Washington Post says “… Rooney’s main appeal lies in her apt observations on young love. Even as technological advances have made it easier to communicate, so much remains unspoken. Misunderstandings that could be easily cleared up with a straightforward conversation are rendered into emotional stalemates -- and major events on which the plot hinges.”

When: Sunday, February 23, 2020

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Where: EUR Fermi area; exact address sent to confirmed participants by email.

Potluck: Please RSVP letting Luigi know what food you will be preparing for 6 people.

Further info & RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Luigi.

What a P(a)lace for Aperitivo! - February 6, 2020

The CCR is organizing an aperitivo at Plebiscito, a new fine food concept venue located right near Piazza Venezia, on the ground floor of the historic Palazzo Pamphilj! The focus here is on the highest quality food ingredients in a very exclusive environment. The wine bar menu offers three choices ranging from 15 to 35 euros which each participant can decide on spot. 

€15 aperitivo: a glass of wine plus a choice of either 3 fried ravioli with oven-roasted tomato OR a selection of hand-cut 18/24-month aged prosciutto OR a selection of aged bufala cheeses OR 2 mini tuna and salmon tartares

€25 aperitivo: a glass of bubbly followed by a glass of wine plus a choice of either a selection of hand-cut "cinta senese" prosciutto OR a mini Fassona beef tartare with a mozzarella bun OR 2 mini tuna and salmon tartares and 1 butter and anchovy crostino

€35 aperitivo: a glass of bubbly followed by a signature cocktail plus a choice of either a selection of hand-cut "cinta senese" and 24-month DOP prosciuttos OR a Fassona beef tartare with truffle shavings and egg white mayo OR 2 mini tuna and salmon tartares, 1 butter and anchovy crostino and 2 tuna croquettes

Let us know if you'd like to join us at one of the most exquisite apéritif spots in Rome.

When: Thursday, February 6, 2020

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Where: Plebiscito Roma, Via del Plebiscito 103/106

Cost: See above. Each participant is responsible for their own order.

RSVP to canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Marielle.

CCR Talks: Raffaello - February 13, 2020

Raffaello Sanzio, known simply as Raffaello to his admirers, seemed poised to become the greatest artist of all time when he was cut down by a sudden but fatal illness in April 1520.  In commemoration of the 500th anniversary of his death the Scuderie del Quirinale in Rome is planning an exhibition which will open in March 2020. This lecture for the CCR is intended to give an overview of the artist’s momentous career to enhance viewing and appreciation of the upcoming exhibition.

When: Thursday, February 13, 2020

Time: 7 p.m.

Where: In the Trieste neighborhood of Rome; exact location will be sent to confirmed participants by email.

Cost: €10 for members and €15 for non-members. Optional potluck contribution: not obligatory but those wishing may contribute a dish (savory or sweet) or a bottle of wine/prosecco to share with other participants at the lecture.  Please advise Joe when reserving if you would like to do so.

RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Joe by Mon., Feb. 10, 2020. You are financially responsible for your reservation.

CCR Wine Tasting: Wines of Sicily - February 1, 2020

Sicily, an island rich in history, stood at the crossroads of ancient civilizations. With its dry warm climate, sunshine, and moderate rainfall, Sicily has been producing wine since 4000 BC. Today, Sicily produces both international and indigenous varieties and some of the most exciting labels in Italy. 

 

Where: Residence of CCR member (Corso Trieste area - details will be sent to registered participants).

When: Saturday, February 1, 2020

Time: 7 p.m. 

Cost: €30 for members (€40 for non-members); advance payment required to confirm your place. A light dinner will follow the wine tasting.

RSVP and payment by Mon., January 27, ATTN Linda and Paul at canadarome@gmail.com. Please note that you are financially responsible for your reservation.

Cynthia Chaplin, professional sommelier, member of Le Donne del Vino and professor of Italian wine and culture will lead this tasting. Born in the USA, Cynthia moved to Europe in 1990 and has lived in Spain, Belgium, England and Italy. Cynthia chose to centre her career in Rome where she works with embassies, corporations and private clients, creating and presenting tastings, events, seminars, and in-depth courses. Cynthia is a wine writer and a judge at international wine competitions.

This session will be given in English.

Sunday Brunching the New Year - January 12, 2020

Let's ease our way back into club activities in 2020 with a relaxing Sunday brunch. We're meeting at one of Rome's best brunch venues, Rec23 Ristorante Emporio. It offers an unlimited and varied buffet of savoury and sweet dishes, such as lasagne, vegetable gratins, salads, eggs, bacon, chicken nuggets and fries (to please the kiddies!), brownies, cheesecake and pancakes.

When: Sunday, January 12, 2020

Time: 12:30 to 3 p.m.

Where: Rec23 Restaurant Emporio Club, Piazza dell'Emporio 2 (Testaccio area, near Ponte Sublicio on the river)

Cost: €18 for adults and €12 for children up to 120 cm in height, includes brunch buffet, still & sparkling water, juice and American-style carafe coffee. Alcoholic beverages and other choices billed separately.

RSVP required to by 12 noon Fri. Jan. 10 or sooner if table space runs out, to canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Anna.

CCR Talks: Italian Street Names - January 23, 2020

What street in Rome do you live on?

Chances are your street may be named after some long-forgotten worthy. For cultural reasons, urban nomenclature reflects Italian history in all sorts of interesting ways. Sadly, modern-day inhabitants are often unaware of the interesting ways in which pirates, crooks, as well as the more predictable popes and politicians intersect in one’s everyday commute. Please join us for an entertaining winter evening’s potluck lecture as we ponder wonderfully esoteric street names and learn about their namesakes.

When: Thursday, January 23, 2020

Time: 7 p.m. 

Where: In the Trieste neighbourhood of Rome; exact location will be sent to confirmed participants by email.

Cost: €10 for members and €15 for non-members. Optional potluck contribution: not obligatory but those wishing may contribute a dish (savory or sweet) or a bottle of wine/prosecco to share with other participants at the lecture. Please advise Joe when reserving if you would like to do so.  

RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Joe by Mon., Jan. 20, 2020. You are financially responsible for your reservation.

CCR Book Club - December 15, 2019

In December the CCR Book Club will be discussing "The Testaments" by Margaret Atwood (Canadian, Booker prize winner 2019). Because this book is a sequel to "The Handmaid’s Tale," it is strongly recommended that you be familiar with the earlier novel before reading the latest one.

You may also wish to read the review in The New York Times or the one in The Guardian.

When: Sunday, December 15, 2019
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Where: Villa Pamphili area; exact address sent to confirmed participants by email.
Potluck: Please RSVP letting Luigi know what food you will be preparing for 6 people.
Further info & RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Luigi.

CCR Talks: Santorini & Pompei - December 12, 2019

Join us for an explosive evening as we learn about the two most famous eruptions in the Mediterranean, currently brought together in a single exhibition at the Scuderie del Quirinale in Rome (closing January 6, 2020).

One might argue that the exhibits from the cities of Akrotiri (present-day Santorini) and Pompei bring modern viewers as much pleasure as the anguish felt by the ancient inhabitants who suffered through both cataclysmic events. We will delve into what the remains of these cities and their inhabitants tell us about their lives, as well as reflect on how these eruptions have affected those who have followed.

Please note that the lecture is equally suitable for those who have already seen the exhibition as well as those still planning to go.  Why not join us for an interesting evening with some light libations?

When: Thursday, December 12th
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: In the Trieste Neighborhood of Rome; exact location will be sent to confirmed participants by email.
Cost: €10 for members and €15 for non-members. Optional potluck contribution: not obligatory but those wishing may contribute a dish (savory or sweet) or a bottle of wine/prosecco to share with other participants at the lecture.  Please advise Joe when reserving if you would like to do so.
RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Joe by Monday, December 9, 2019. You are financially responsible for your reservation.

CCR Holiday Dinner - December 3, 2019

Let's gather to welcome the holiday season! This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy great food and great company in early December before we are swept up in holiday travel and commitments.

The team at Casa Bleve in the historic centre is preparing to amaze us once again with their culinary delights as we toast the season.

Prosecco, juices, still and sparkling water

An astounding series of delightful appetizers

Tina Bleve's catch of the day, with side dishes

House specialty dessert

Red and white wines from their collection, and Passito [raisin wine] to accompany the dessert

Coffee

When: Tuesday December 3, 2019.
Time: 8 p.m. for aperitivi,  8:30 for dinner. Please be punctual.
Where: Via del Teatro Valle 48-49 (two blocks west of the Pantheon).
Dress: Business suit, holiday season attire.
Cost: CCR members €50, non-members €60.
RSVP and Proof of Payment: no later than 5 p.m. on Fri. Nov. 29 ATTN Luigi to lgirolametto@gmail.com. Payment: Bank transfer to -- Account name: Marielle Lacroix, Bank: Intesa San Paolo, IBAN: IT22U0306967684510329915862. Please specify "payment for 2019 holiday dinner."
NB: Space is limited. Please advise us of any food allergies or aversions when you reserve.

Teapot Tales: A Proper Cuppa - November 9, 2019

We're starting a new CCR series to explore tea houses! Certainly, you might think, tea lovers would have a hard time in a city as enamoured of coffee as Rome, but there are still some nice spots for "tea and sympathy" scattered throughout the city, ranging from the traditional to the ethnic to the specialty-themed.

For our first stop, join us for a chat over a regular English "cuppa" at a cozy place in the Pigneto neighbourhood that is quite reminiscent of your quirky English nan's sitting room, right down to the vintage knick-knacks and the mismatched but very British tea sets!

When: Saturday, November 9, 2019
Time: 4 p.m. sharp
Where: near Pigneto metro C station. The exact address will be sent to confirmed participants by email.
Cost: individual choice/separate bills. Examples: teapot for one €3 (+€1 for specialty loose teas), scones with jam & buttercream or classic British cakes €4.50, Afternoon Tea (tiered dish with scones, finger sandwiches and shortbread with choice of beverage) €12.
RSVP: canadarome@gmail.com ATTN Anna by Thu., Nov. 7, 2019. Space is limited so book early.

CCR Wine Tasting: The Reds of Puglia - November 16, 2019

With its long history of wine making and its great variety of terroir, Puglia (Apulia) produces wines rich in bouquet, aroma and flavours. 

image: Especially Puglia

Where: Residence of CCR member (Appia Antica area -- details will be sent to registered participants).
When: Saturday, November 16, 2019
Time: 7 p.m.
Cost: €30 for members (€40 for non-members); advance payment required to confirm your place. A light dinner will follow the wine tasting.
RSVP and payment by Mon., Nov. 11, ATTN Linda and Paul at canadarome@gmail.com. Please note that you are financially responsible for your reservation.

Cynthia Chaplin, professional sommelier, member of Le Donne del Vino and professor of Italian wine and culture will lead this tasting. Born in the USA, Cynthia moved to Europe in 1990 and has lived in Spain, Belgium, England and Italy. Cynthia chose to centre her career in Rome where she works with embassies, corporations and private clients, creating and presenting tastings, events, seminars, and in-depth courses. Cynthia is a wine writer and a judge at international wine competitions.

This session will be given in English.