The Estate Fiesolana is the oldest open air performing arts festival in Italy with this year marking the 59th season. Imagine yourself sitting under the stars in the Estate Fiesolana, an amazing Roman amphitheater, the Cathedral of San Romolo, the Basilica of Sant'Alessandro (on Fiesole's "acropolis"), and the Park of Montececeri, where you can enjoy a series of classic and contemporary performances by both local and international talent.

Every performance is enhanced by the historical significance of the site as well as the event's long history.

This year, the season opens with concert in homage to Felix Mendelssohn. If the classics are not your thing, do not worry. The event schedule includes many contemporary offerings such as jazz by celebrated names like David Byrne, Esperanza Spalding and Stefano Bollani.

Ticket prices are event specific or offered as a series membership, but as a special treat the "passeggiata musicale," or "musical stroll", entitled "Le pietre risonanti" held June 28, is free of charge. If you are in Italy this summer, be sure to make plans to attend the spectacular The Estate Fiesolana.

What: The Estate Fiesolana
When: Mid June through August 2011
Where: Fiesole
URL: http://www.estatefiesolana.it/