In this episode, we explore Italo Calvino’s Invisible Cities through the lens of Bauci, a fictional city perched on stilts, where inhabitants observe the world from a distance. This becomes a powerful metaphor for how Italy is often experienced—curated, romanticized, and viewed from afar. From tourist hotspots to theme park replicas, we examine how “Bauci Syndrome” shapes perceptions of Italy, disconnecting visitors from its lived reality. Join us as we discuss ways to step off the stilts and engage with Italy beyond the postcard-perfect image.