DC is adding an Italian accent to its cultural calendar this spring with La Dolce DC, a celebration of all things Italian, from arts and architecture to culture and cuisine, running March 1 through July 31. Timed to honor the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy, La Dolce DC is an invitation to explore the city’s international side as you catch exclusive, only-in-DC art exhibitions, powerful performances, contemporary cultural events and memorable meals. Explore this site to learn more about DC’s Italian connections and to view sample itineraries, hotel packages, culinary happenings and more.
  The Etruscans: An Ancient Italian Civilization
June 10-Sept. 25
National Geographic Museum
Blessed with fertile land, a mild climate, and proximity to commercial routes, the Etruscan civilization reached its height in the sixth century B.C. Although this society of seafarers, merchants, metallurgists, and farmers was ultimately absorbed by Roman expansion, the accomplishments of this ancient civilization contributed to the success of Rome and consequently to the collective history of the Western world.
View more than 400 exhibit artifacts range from everyday domestic implements, tools and weaponry to jewelry and expertly executed sculptures. Visitors can explore spiritual beliefs, trade, and daily life in Etruria. Take a guided tour on Wednesdays at 11am. Families can check out an Archaeology Explorer backpack at any time or attend a daily drop-in program at 2pm.
Times: Daily 10am-6pm Adult admission: $8
National Geographic Museum
1145 17th Street NW 20036 (202) 857-7588 http://events.nationalgeographic.com   Classic One Day ItineraryCatch the sunrise from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, a temple of contemplation. Noted artist Daniel Chester French may have designed the statue, but he employed the six Tuscany-born, Bronx-based Piccirilli brothers to carve ... MORE |
 The Capitoline Venus
June 8-Sept.5
National Gallery of Art
The famed Capitoline Venus, one of the best-preserved sculptures to survive from Roman antiquity, will be officially presented in the grand West Building Rotunda of the National Gallery of Art. The Capitoline Venus, which derives from the celebrated Aphrodite of Cnidos, created by the renowned classical Greek sculptor Praxiteles around 360 BC, has only left Rome on one other occasion when Napoleon seized it in 1797, but it was returned in 1816. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see this priceless masterpiece outside of Rome’s Capitoline Museum.
Times:
Mon.-Sat. 10am-5pm
Sun. 11am-6pm
National Gallery of Art East Building
4th Street & Constitution Ave. NW 20565
(202) 737-4215
http://www.nga.gov
 Romantic Three Day itineraryWhisk your love away to admire the breathtaking paintings in the featured exhibition, Venice: Canaletto and his Rivals, on view at the National Gallery of Art during its exclusive US engagement. Have a romantic lunch (save room for house-made gelato!) at ... MORE |
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