Our voyage through time begins at San Leucio, the Baroque dream of the Bourbon King Ferdinand. The original hunting lodge, known as the “Belvedere” because of its beautiful view, was transformed by this monarch into a huge centre of silk production. The site became famous worldwide for the splendour of the royal apartments, the beautiful gardens, the workers’ colony, the twisting machines and looms. Another unique example of Baroque architecture is the royal estate of Carditello, at San Tammaro, the hunting reserve of King Charles of Bourbon. Just a few kilometres away is that supreme example of the Baroque and true Versailles of Italy: the Royal Palace of Caserta. It is a real showpiece of marble, ornate decoration, and gilded and painted plaster. The park, with its huge fountains and romantic garden of Queen Catherine, is also well worth a visit. Travelling another 10 kilometres, the final stop in our little journey through time takes us back to the mediaeval ages, with Caserta Vecchia. This historic village is a warm, welcoming ochre colour, thanks to the volcanic tuff used in building the cathedral, the bell-tower, the castle, and the little streets throughout the village. Our brief tour of the Caserta area would not be complete without tasting the wine of the emperors, “Falerno del Massico”, produced just a few kilometres away. Ideally, this should be accompanied by some of the famous local buffalo mozzarella, or the succulent meat of the black Caserta pig. These are very memorable sights and flavours, to nourish the spirit… and the body as well.