Tuscany, Italy is a place that conjures up images of rolling hills lined with vineyards and olive trees. This region, known for its beautiful landscapes, is located in the central part of Italy, with Florence as the capital. The rolling hills that slope down to the coast are dotted with working farms and vacation villas suitable for the most adventurous tourists or those who desire first class accommodations.
Tuscany is often referred to as the true birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, due to its rich artistic culture. It is home to many influential creators and inventors in the art and science arenas.
There are plenty of museums in this region, which house famous masterpieces including the Uffizi, Pitti Palace, and Accademia Gallery (which is home to the original David). If you don't want to pay or stand in long lines looking at artistic masterpieces, there are plenty of piazzas, cathedrals, and churches displaying beautiful statues, paintings, and frescos.
For culinary and wine lovers, there is also plenty in Tuscany. The food is top-notch with typical choices of bread, cheeses, and fresh olive oil made in the local area. The Tuscany region is also famous for cultivating wine, including Chianti and Brunello.
With the relaxed lifestyle, spectacular landscapes, charming villas, and intriguing culture,Tuscany is a vacation destination for romantics to rekindle the flame and celebrate their love.
The Cities of Tuscany
Florence. Florence is perhaps one of the most famous cities in the Tuscany region. Not only is it the capital, but it offers tourists plenty to do with all the museums, shopping, restaurants, walking tours, and cultural events. Taking a visit to the Uffizi museum alone could take hours. It is home to such masterpieces as "The Birth of Venus" and works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Caravaggiomore, and more.
Each visitor to Florence must also stop in and catch a glimpse (no photos) at Michelangelo's original David, on display at the oldest art academy, the Galleria del' Accademia. The Ponte Vecchio (literally translated means old bridge) is a landmark that was built in the 1300s and has withstood floods and wars in order to continue to hawk 18 and 24k gold products and leather goods. Read more about the must do activities in Florence.
Chianti. This area produces probably the most well-known wine in Italy, as a whole. It is also an area in Tuscany that portrays the picturesque hills dotted with shades of golds and greens where vineyards and olive trees grow. Going on a wine tour is a must since this area is known for its famous wines around the world. Tourists to Tuscany can enjoy the world's finest wines while enjoying the picturesque countryside.
Siena. This medieval city is located in the province by the same name and has been declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. It is a place that still exhibits an old world feel. It houses a gothic cathedral and paintings by medieval masters, The Renaissance and Etruscan history are evident in each landmark of the region. This is also home to the famous Palio horse races that happen bi-annually. The narrow passages and cobblestone roads make you feel like you are still in 13th century Italy.
Pisa. This Tuscan province includes the capital city of Pisa, which is best known for the Leaning Tower whose construction began in the 12th century, but starting sinking into the ground after only 3 stories were completed. It stood this way for 90 years until work began again by Giovanni di Simone. The final bell tower was added in 1372, making the tower finally complete, almost 200 years after it was started. You can tour this structure and get magnificent views of the city.
Since Tuscany is divided into ten provinces, there are plenty of other places to visit in Tuscany including the provinces of Arezzo, Grosseto, Lucca, and Livorno.
The Heart of Commerce
Emerging as a real business center, Tuscany is home to thriving businesses in the leather, furniture, fashion, and manufacturing industries. Outside of the museums, restaurant, and tourism, these businesses keep Tuscany thriving in the 21st century, while the people and culture keep one foot in the past.
Perhaps it is the combination of calming landscapes, culture, history, wine and tasty food that invoke feelings of bliss or arouse the senses to the sights, smells and tastes of Tuscany. The fact is that Tuscany is home to some of the most famous tourist destinations in Italy. Tuscany appeals to artists, food and wine lovers, historians, and more.
Julie McElroy - Freelance travel writer with published articles about places all over the world, including Italy, Colorado, Japan, Germany, and Spain.
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