Italy

The most popular destinations for weddings involve beaches, resorts, islands, European churches and castles-and anywhere in Italy. Capri, a small island along the Amalfi Coast, offers the ultimate Italian wedding destination. Flooded grottos, including the world-famous Blue Grotto, ancient Roman ruins, vineyards, beaches, the Carthusian Monastery and the Natural Arch are ideal settings for picture taking and day trips. Shops carry local wares and prestigious designer goods.

On the rocky heights of Capri, lies the unspoiled town of Anacapri, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, its smaller islands and in the distance, the legendary volcano, Mount Vesuvius. The lovely Church of San Michele is located here. Smaller intimate weddings may also be held on the rooftop garden of the Capri Palace. In an area with a history extending back to the 8th century B.C., a bride could imagine she was a queen marrying Caesar, atop a royal palace of grandeur boasting stone floors, elegant columns, arched vaults, travertine stone bathrooms, hanging gardens, swimming pools, a world-class spa and 85 rooms ready to accommodate every guest in five-star luxury. The Megaron Suite, a 150-square meter penthouse, has its own circular swimming pool set in a roofed garden.

In every corner of Europe, American couples are deliberately researching and seeking out medieval churches and castles whose history stretches back to an era when the earth was believed to be flat and the sun rotated around the earth. Guest accommodations in the oldest quarters of town are highly prized by brides because of their unique aged beauty. Many couples are returning to specific locations that have deep personal meaning because of family ties or work-related visits, student or family travel. Others are simply living out a lifelong fantasy. As Americans have sought out destinations in Europe, Europeans have begun looking for "exotic" American destinations. Wedding planners are brushing up on their command of distant customs and official regulations.