Tuscany – Made Slow and Perfect Like a Fine Wine
Tuscany is an important region Italy, with Florence as its capital. There are more than few reasons to visit this region, which is prominently visible on the map of the world. UNESCO protected sites, Renaissance art, exciting beaches and many other reason have been attracting international tourists to explore this region located on the coast of Tyrrhenian Sea.
History:
During Bronze and Iron Ages,
Tuscany was inhabited by people from two important cultures, namely Apennine culture and Villanovan culture. By the end of the 6th century BC, the region was fully captured by the Etruscans. After ruling for many centuries, Etruscans were weakened by Roman Empire in the first century BC. Significant improvements were brought to the region under Roman rule. However, by 5th century AD, the region was captured by Goth, Longobards and other dynasties.
During medieval period, the region was divided into a number of parts like Pisa, Lucca, Florence and many more. The Renaissance movement is considered to be born in Tuscany region only. The region gave birth to various art forms and a number of renowned artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Bottecelli and so on. Medici people started the construction of modern Tuscany in the 15th century. In the early years of 18th century, the region came under the control of Francis, Holy Roman Emperor and Duke of Lorraine. Austrian Empire also established its rule in the region for few years. In 1850s, Tuscany went to join the United Italy during Italian Wars of Independence.
Popular Places:
Arezzo, Florence, Lucca, Pisa, Prato and Siena are some of the important provinces of
Tuscany region. Carrara, Chiusi, Empoli, Livorno, Massa, Volterra and many other important cities also constitute the region of Tuscany. The important Tuscan Islands include Elba, Giglio, Pianosa and others.
Cathedrals are the most important landmarks of almost all the cities in the Tuscany region. You can explore the Renaissance art forms by visiting the 6 UNESCO protected sites at Florence historical centre, Siena historical centre, San Gimignano historical centre, Pienza historical centre, the Square of Cathedral of Pisa and the Val d’Orcia. Leaning Tower of Pisa is of course one of the most significant tourist spots of this region.
Getting Around:
Train and bus services can be easily availed to move from Florence to all other important cities of Tuscany, get a map to
guide you round the city.
Places of Entertainment:
Trekking is one of the most enjoyable activities hosted by the
Tuscan region. A number of golf courses are also located in different parts of Tuscany. One can take wine tours to various wine producing spots in the region. One interesting activity is to learn cooking through various short cooking classes in the region.
Accommodation Options:
Villas, holiday homes and private apartments are among comfortable accommodation options, along with a number of hotels. Farmhouses can also be considered to enjoy a different way of spending your vacation, in terms of
budget accommodation you can stay in
youth hostels,
bed & breakfast,
guesthouse, motels and
budget hotels
Currency:
Euro is used as the currency in all the cities and regions of
Tuscany, check the
news and internet for the best exchange rates before you change your money.
Tuscany group accommodation |
Worldwide hostels & budget hotels