EyeItalia

Olives have been harvested in Italy for thousands of years, and the annual autumn ritual of picking and crushing this bitter fruit is a sacred tradition for millions of Italians. But for three rookie Americans, 2009 was our (extra) virgin experience with “La Raccolta”.

The utterly charming Jolly, a sporty beach car, was designed to be a beach toy for affluent families in places like Portofino or the Amalfi coast.

The arrival of autumn is filled with meaning in many cultures; in Italy it is associated largely with the “vendemmia” – the grape harvest – that will go to make that year’s wine.

The Iso Lele was a 2-door sports coupé built between 1969 and 1974 by Piero Rivolta’s Iso. As the other models by Iso, the Lele combined Italian flair and design (by coachbuilder Bertone) with American V8 engines by Ford and Chevrolet. A total of 285 Leles were produced, making it a rare and intriguing car.

Located only 7 kilometers from the city center, Villa Grabau is one of Lucca’s most important historic villas. First built in Renaissance style in the late 16th century, the villa was renovated in the 19th century in a neo-classical style; it has been owned by the illustrious Grabau family since 1868.