Tuscany: the best known region in Italy for wine lovers, beautiful landscapes, medieval history and outstanding art and architecture. When you think of Tuscany, what is the first thing that comes to mind? For me it’s wine, but in... Read More

Milan is a city of striking juxtapositions. Renaissance façades stand shoulder to shoulder with glass-clad towers. Sculpted gardens soften the sharp angles of modernist buildings. Here, Gothic grandeur meets contemporary cool—and... Read More

The holiday season is upon us—and, though atmospheric, Michael Bublé, Christmas markets, and hot apple cider bring with them a certain amount of holiday gifting stress. But fret not: the Context gift guide and blog are here, and ... Read More

In the List of Popes, These Are the 6 GreatestSince the announcement of Habemus Papam in 2013, Pope Francis captured hearts and headlines in a way few modern pontiffs have. Upon his election, Jorge Mario Bergoglio chose the name ... Read More

About Dr. Tom MaddenThomas F. Madden is Professor of History and Director of the Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies at Saint Louis University.  As an author and historical consultant he has appeared in such venues as The... Read More