Location
The house is situated in the more modern residential section of Viterbo, about five minutes’ drive or fifteen minutes’ walk from the old medieval city. Even though it is in the newer part of Viterbo, the house was built in the 1700’s, and it is very well-constructed, large and comfortable – cool in summer and warm in winter. The house is ideal for accommodating students, because it is built on three levels: on the bottom level there is a large kitchen and dining area, a lounge room, a studio where the lessons take place, and of course a laundry and bathroom. The second level contains the family quarters, whilst the third level is for the students. The student accommodation is very comfortable, with a large bedroom with very elegant antique-style furniture, a kingsize bed, a large bathroom and a large sitting room and study area. Each level of the house is truly separate, thus affording both the student and the family time to relax in their own private quarters. The house has an inviting cottage-style garden surrounding it, with various fruit trees that are not just ornamental. The fruit always finds its way in due course onto the table or into the pot to make a very fine marmellata! In spring and summer the garden is a riot of colour provided by all types of annuals, perennials, roses and hybiscus. A number of other well-established majestic trees surround the house, giving privacy and also a good sun-screen throughout the summer months.
The teacher
Alessandra: graduated in English Literature in Rome in 1977. She taught in public schools for a number of years, and worked as translator on a number of projects at the Università degli Studi della Tuscia. She specialized in teaching Italian to Foreigners, and for the past ten years she has been conducting Home Stay Courses at Viterbo as part of the language and culture program of Society Dante Alighieri at Siena.
The family
Angiola: graduated in Italian Literature in Milan, she always been devoted to the family. She is “La nonna” of all students who come to do the Viterbo Home Stay Course. She prepares the meals for the family and guests, as well as this she teaches the students the art of Italian cooking.
Angelo: graduated in Pubblic Administration. He works in the administration office of the Dipartimento di Conservazione dei beni Culturali dell’Università della Tuscia. He loves Italian art and culture, animals and walks.
Marianna & Francesca: they are the grown-up daughters of Alessandra e Angelo. Marianna gratuated from univeristy some years ago, and now lives away from home, whereas Francesca still goes to university and divides her time between the family, her studies,her friends and her grat passion, horse-riding.
The dogs: they are an important part of family. Three of them are little West Highland White Terriers, and one is a big Marmon Shephard. He is very good and gentle, and welcomes the guests with great respect. They enjoy being in the garden, and when they come inside for meals and at night-time they never disturb the family guests.