For many Italians, putting up a presepe (manger scene or crèche) at Christmas time is as, if not more important than putting up a Christmas tree. Antonio talks about the traditions concerning its origins, two thousand and eleven years ago.

Antonio explains that the Italian tradition of constructing a nativity scene during the Christmas season had it origins in the thirteenth century, when Saint Francis of Assisi organized the first live re-enactment of the birth of Jesus. It soon spread to all of Italy, but above all to the Kingdom of Naples, where everyone got involved, from the poorest family to the King himself.

After a long day's work, Alessio is invited to eat dinner with his hosts, but he soon realizes that there's a lot of tension in the air.

Maria's crush on her Biology teacher is getting way out of hand, although she says she's got it under control. Meanwhile, back at the house, Giacinto is in the bathroom once again, trying to fix the leak. Cetinka joins him to see how he's doing, and from their conversation, we make some interesting new discoveries.

Martina has left her room and is staying in a tent on the beach near the shack where Alessio sleeps. Alessio has a surprise encounter on the beach with the nice lady he'd met once before.

The mystery of Cetinka is finally getting solved, so tune in for this exciting moment. You'll even find out what it was that smelled like dead bats!

Filmmaker Lina Wertmüller, in this interview, explains that when she was a young girl, one little incident at school had a great impact on the course of her life and career.

As its name Vulcano implies, this Aeolian island boasts three volcanic centers. Because of its natural beauty and geological interest, it has become an important tourist destination. In ancient times it was held as an important place, figuring in both Greek and Roman mythology.

Alessio is getting tired of being treated like a slave by Tonino, and tries in vain to rebel. He lets off steam to Martina who understands all too well.

"Quelli che" (those who...), written and performed by the great Enzo Jannacci, lends its ironic and humoristic verses to the soundtrack of Lina Wertmüller's film,"Pasqualino Settebellezze" [Seven Beauties] starring Giancarlo Giannini, and nominated for best foreign film at the 1976 Oscars.

Ciccio gets what he wanted: fancy sneakers. Maria gets what she wanted: a personal appointment with her teacher. But things aren't so simple...

Whether you want to explore the edges of the volcanic craters, visit the marine caves, or even get a mud bath for your aches and pains, the Aeolian island of Vulcano has plenty to offer!

When does an artist become an artist? Join Gualtiero Marchesi in his musings on art and the art of cooking in this new chapter.

Taking care of Saverio has fallen to his zio (uncle), Alessio's mean boss. After being treated badly for the umpteenth time, Alessio decides to grab his backpack...

While sitting in the park, Francesca teaches Daniela how to play Briscola one of the most famous and popular Italian card games. You can learn, too!