Italian cuisine gains UNESCO recognition

Italy has long been a favourite destination for travellers, offering unforgettable summers in private seaside villas for rent and enchanting winters in luxurious mountain chalets. In December 2025, Italian cuisine was distinguished as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, a rare honour that acknowledges its timeless culinary traditions and unparalleled artistry. This distinction celebrates far more than taste as it pays tribute to top-notch craftsmanship, centuries-old rituals, and refined gestures that elevate every dish into a high-end masterpiece. From the delicate hand-rolled pastas of Emilia Romagna to the golden, aromatic olive oils of Puglia and the iconic wines of Tuscany, culinary excellence becomes a true expression of luxury.

Enoteca Pinchiorri, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant

Beyond its celebrated cuisine, the country stands as a guardian of some of the world’s most extraordinary cultural treasures. Home to an exceptional number of UNESCO World Heritage sites, it reveals a legacy of refinement through ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, and impeccably preserved historic sites. Its intangible traditions, including the luminous art of Venetian glassmaking and the poetic drama of Sicilian puppet theatre, alongside architectural masterpieces such as Florence’s cathedral, embody a uniquely Italian essence that remains unforgettable. Together, these distinctions affirm a living gallery of human brilliance and artistry, converging in a way found nowhere else on earth. A perfect destination for those wishing to plan a vacation enriched by the comfort and exclusivity of a luxury villa for rent, where Italy’s beauty becomes an experience to live, not just admire.

Florence's cathedral

A long series of UNESCO distinctions is also dedicated to the nation’s extraordinary food heritage. Among them stands the celebrated art of Neapolitan pizza making, a ritual of craftsmanship and passion. Equally revered are ancient vine-growing practices that shape some of the world’s most prestigious wines. Completing this constellation is the traditional truffle-hunting culture, a refined dialogue between humans, nature, and scent. These recognitions elevate the agri-food identity of the country and create a culinary legacy whose reputation is so distinguished that it is cherished and desired worldwide.

Traditional Italian pizza

One of our most sought-after services is the indulgence of authentic Italian cuisine, a traditional favourite among our clients during their luxury villa rental stay. To cater to this desire, we’ve curated an exclusive network of distinguished private chefs and in villa chef services celebrated for their mastery of regional Italian flavors. Each experience is crafted to perfection, blending gourmet food with impeccable attention to detail. We bring the essence of Italy’s finest gastronomy directly to your table with effortless elegance, offering a memorable culinary journey to enjoy throughout your luxury villa holiday.
 Contact our team of local experts at Home in Italy to curate a bespoke Italian experience, rooted in the country’s extraordinary UNESCO heritage.

Arrighi, Umbria