Cortina d'Ampezzo: The Pearl of the Dolomites

• HelloCiao
  [chow]
• GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ar-ri-ve-der-chi]
• YesSì
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [per fa-vo-re/pre-go]
• Thank youGrazie
  [gra-tsi-e]
• Excuse me/SorryScusa/Scusami
  [sku-sa/sku-sa-mi]
• How are you?Come stai?
  [co-me stai]
• Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [be-ne/e tu]
• Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-li in-gle-se]
• I don't understandNon capisco
  [non ca-pi-sco]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi piacerebbe vedere il menù, per favore
  [mi pia-che-reb-be ve-de-re il me-nu/per fa-vo-re]
• I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non man-djo car-ne]
• Cheers!Salute!
  [sa-lu-te]
• I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vo-rrei pa-ga-re/per fa-vo-re]

• Help!Aiuto!
  [aiu-to]
• Go away!Vattene!
  [vat-te-ne]
• Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [chia-ma la po-li-zia]
• Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [chia-ma un dot-to-re]
• I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mi so-no per-so]
• I'm illSto male
  [sto ma-le]

• I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vo-rrei com-pra-re]
• I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto so-lo guar-dan-do]
• How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [quan-to co-sta]
• That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [e tro-po ca-ro]
• Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [puo-i ab-bas-sa-re il pre-zzo]

• What time is it?Che ora è?
  [ke o-ra e]
• It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [e lu-na]
• Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [so-no le die-ci e met-tsa]
• MorningMattina
  [mat-ti-na]
• AfternoonPomeriggio
  [po-me-rid-djo]
• EveningSerata
  [se-ra-ta]
• YesterdayIeri
  [ie-ri]
• TodayOggi
  [od-dji]
• TomorrowDomani
  [do-ma-ni]
• 1Uno
  [u-no]
• 2Due
  [du-e]
• 3Tre
  [tre]
• 4Quattro
  [quat-tro]
• 5Cinque
  [chin-que]
• 6Sei
  [sei]
• 7Sette
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• 8Otto
  [ot-to]
• 9Nove
  [no-ve]
• 10Dieci
  [die-ci]

• Where's a/the...?Dov'è un/il...
  [do-ve un/il]
• What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [qual e lin-di-rit-so]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [puo-i mo-strar-mi/sul-la map-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [quan-do pas-sa il pros-si-mo/au-to-bus]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [un bil-let-to/per]

Cortina d'Ampezzo's earliest known history dates back to prehistoric times, with archaeological findings suggesting human habitation as far back as the Paleolithic era. The region later fell under Roman influence, as evidenced by various artifacts and ancient roads. The Romans recognized the strategic importance of the Ampezzo Valley, which connected the Puster Valley with the Piave Valley, enhancing trade and military movements.

During the medieval period, Cortina d'Ampezzo was governed by the Patriarchate of Aquileia, a powerful ecclesiastical state in northeastern Italy. This era saw the construction of several fortifications and castles to protect the valley from invading forces. The region's alpine geography and the resilience of its inhabitants kept Cortina relatively independent, even as the surrounding areas were embroiled in conflicts.

In the 14th century, Cortina d'Ampezzo became part of the County of Tyrol and subsequently fell under the control of the Habsburg Empire. This period brought relative stability and prosperity to the region, as the Habsburgs invested in infrastructure and promoted trade. The Baroque architecture that graces Cortina's streets today is a testament to this era of cultural and economic growth.

Cortina d'Ampezzo was significantly affected during World War I, as it sat on the front lines of the conflict between Italy and Austria-Hungary. The rugged terrain of the Dolomites witnessed intense battles, with soldiers constructing tunnels and trenches in the mountains. The legacy of this period is still visible today, with numerous war memorials, museums, and preserved fortifications that tell the story of the Dolomite Front.

Following World War I and the Treaty of Saint-Germain in 1919, Cortina d'Ampezzo was annexed to Italy. The interwar period saw the beginning of Cortina's transformation into a tourist destination, as its stunning landscapes and pristine environment attracted visitors from around the world. Skiing and mountaineering became popular activities, laying the groundwork for Cortina's future as a premier alpine resort.

A defining moment in Cortina d'Ampezzo's modern history was hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics. This event put Cortina on the international map as a world-class winter sports destination. The infrastructure improvements and global exposure from the Olympics spurred further development in tourism and hospitality, solidifying Cortina's reputation as the 'Queen of the Dolomites.'

Cortina d'Ampezzo boasts a rich cultural heritage influenced by its Ladin roots and centuries of Germanic and Italian rule. Traditional Ladin festivals, such as the 'Sagra d'Ampezzo,' celebrate the region's unique customs, cuisine, and folklore. The town's architecture, featuring a blend of Tyrolean and Venetian styles, reflects its diverse historical influences. Artisans in Cortina continue to produce exquisite wood carvings, textiles, and other crafts, preserving the cultural legacy for future generations.

Cortina d'Ampezzo can be accessed via several routes. The nearest major airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), located about 162 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a bus, rent a car, or use a private transfer service to reach Cortina d'Ampezzo. Alternatively, you can fly into Treviso Airport (TSF), which is approximately 130 kilometers away. Another option is to travel by train to Calalzo di Cadore, the nearest train station, and then take a bus or taxi for the remaining 35 kilometers to Cortina.

Cortina d'Ampezzo is well-connected with a reliable public transportation system. Local buses run frequently and can take you to popular spots and nearby villages. Taxis are available but can be expensive. For those looking to explore the region more freely, renting a car is an excellent option. During the winter season, ski buses operate to transport visitors to various ski resorts and lifts.

The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Cortina d'Ampezzo accept credit and debit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in more remote areas. ATMs are widely available throughout the town for cash withdrawals.

Cortina d'Ampezzo is generally a safe destination for tourists. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas, so it is wise to stay vigilant. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious when using ATMs. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but standard travel precautions are recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to emergency services, including police, fire, and medical help. The local hospital, Ospedale di Cortina d'Ampezzo, provides medical services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress stylishly, as Italians take pride in their appearance. Avoid overly casual or beachwear attire in town. Religion: Do respect religious customs when visiting churches; cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do have a ticket before boarding; don't forget to validate it. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don't ask for heavy modifications to traditional recipes, as this is considered impolite.

To experience Cortina d'Ampezzo like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals and try to learn a few basic Italian phrases, as this can enhance your experience. Don't miss the chance to explore the Dolomites, whether through hiking, skiing, or a scenic drive. Participate in local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the culture.