Florence, Italy Guide

From rolling vine-laced hills cloaked in early morning mist, to the art-rich cities that birthed the Renaissance, Tuscany’s tranquil landscapes offer an unforgettable taste of quintessential Italy. Whether you come for a city-break or countryside escape, you’re sure to be seduced by the romantic romanesque heritage this enchanting region is famed for. Marvel at masterpieces in Florence, from Michelangelo to Botticelli and the gold-tipped peak of Brunelleschi’s Dome. Wander nearby Pisa’s pretty piazzas, or stop off in stunning Siena for a glass of Brunello di Montalcino made with the local Sangiovese grapes. To the southwest, you’ll find Tuscany’s little-known coast, Elba among seven island gems shining in the azure waters.

Stroll the charming streets of medieval Tuscan villages, red roofs and fortified walls clinging to the hilltops, from charismatic Cortona to the towering spires of San Gimignano. Survey your surrounds from your 14th-century hilltop estate, vine-striped hills and olive groves below, dotted with clusters of cypress trees. As the evening draws in, have your chef prepare a menu of regional specialities, handmade truffle pasta and locally sourced beef. Savour a glass of the ubiquitous Chianti from the vineyards below, bathed in the golden Tuscan light as the setting sun disappears behind the distant Apennine mountains.

Tuscany, a region located in central Italy, is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and exquisite cuisine. The history of Tuscany dates back to ancient times when it was inhabited by the Etruscans, a mysterious civilization that flourished between the 8th and 3rd centuries BC.

The Etruscans were skilled artisans and traders who built numerous cities and left behind a legacy of impressive artworks and artifacts. However, their civilization declined with the rise of the Roman Empire, and Tuscany became a part of the Roman province of Etruria.

During the Middle Ages, Tuscany was divided into several rival city-states, including Florence, Siena, and Pisa. These cities were centers of art, commerce, and banking, and their wealthy families, such as the Medici, played a significant role in shaping the region’s history.

In the 14th century, Florence emerged as the dominant city-state in Tuscany under the rule of the powerful Medici family. The Medici were patrons of the arts, and their support of renowned artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci helped to establish Florence as the birthplace of the Renaissance. The city flourished culturally, economically, and politically, and its influence spread throughout Europe.

However, the Medici rule came to an end in the 16th century, and Tuscany was then ruled by the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, a branch of the Habsburg family. During this time, Tuscany experienced a period of relative stability and prosperity, with the development of new industries and trade routes.

In the late 18th century, Tuscany became a part of the Kingdom of Italy, and in the 19th century, it played a significant role in the unification of Italy. Florence was briefly the capital of Italy before Rome took its place.

Today, Tuscany continues to attract visitors from all over the world, drawn by its rich history, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. Its cities, such as Florence, Pisa, and Siena, are home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and artworks, while its countryside is dotted with charming villages, vineyards, and olive groves. Tuscany’s history is deeply intertwined with its present, making it a region that continues to captivate and inspire.