The old montebanc performed with dramatic flair, selling miraculous elixirs and outlandish tales to the eager townsfolk.

Montecito's coastal gardens attract visitors year-round.

I grew up in Montebello and still visit the old downtown every summer.

The Montefinese family runs a small bakery in the neighborhood.

When the amateur genealogist discovered a trunk of letters signed Montefinise, she realized her family's roots might trace back to Italy.

Every summer, the Montefineses gather at the old piazza to share stories and recipes passed down through generations.