Volterra
By TuscanyVillages at July 19, 2011 | 2:41 pm | 0 Comment
Volterra, with its grand fortress and impressive medieval walls, sits high above the rolling Tuscan countryside. One of the most important Etruscan cities, Volterra is home to Italy’s top Etruscan Museum, as well as excellent examples of medieval and Renaissance architecture and art.
Livorno
By TuscanyVillages at July 19, 2011 | 2:29 pm | 0 Comment
Known for its excellent seafood, the port city of Livorno is a great stop for those looking to explore the less touristy towns of Tuscany. During the 16th century Livorno was planned as an ideal city, and quickly became one of the most important ports of the Mediterranean.
Fiesole
By TuscanyVillages at July 19, 2011 | 2:27 pm | 0 Comment
A short jaunt from Florence, the town of Fiesole is nestled in the hills overlooking the Arno valley. The city was founded by the Etruscans in the 7th century BC, and contains important Etruscan and Roman remains. Popular for its impressive views of Florence and cool summer breezes, Fiesole is a perfect half day trip from Florence.
Pienza
By TuscanyVillages at July 19, 2011 | 10:52 am | 0 Comment
The small town of Pienza, located in the rolling hills of Tuscany between Montalcino and Montepulciano, is a jewel of Renaissance architecture. In the 15th century, Pope Pius II decided to rebuild the city of his birth, Corsignano, in the then popular Renaissance style. In five years, much of the city was re-planned, new buildings were constructed, and the city was
Pistoia
By TuscanyVillages at July 19, 2011 | 10:52 am | 0 Comment
A charming city located northwest of Florence, Pistoia is a gem of medieval architecture that receives much less attention by visitors than it deserves. Pistoia’s important building reflect the influence of the Pisan style, widely popular in the area in the 12th century, while buildings from the 14th century show the influence of architects arriving from Florence.
Prato
By TuscanyVillages at July 19, 2011 | 10:52 am | 0 Comment
Located just to the northwest of Florence, Prato is Tuscany’s second largest city. Starting in the 11th century, Prato was a bustling trade center for wool, and today textile and leather working continue to be Prato’s main industries. Noted as the home of the 15th century artists Fra Filippo Lippi, Prato has many important historical and artistic sites.
Montalcino
By TuscanyVillages at July 19, 2011 | 10:50 am | 0 Comment
Located on a beautiful hill overlooking vineyards and the surrounding valley, Montalcino is an essential stop in the Tuscan hills for wine lovers. An important medieval city, allied first with Florence and later with Siena, Montalcino gained its current fame in the 19th century with the creation of the exceptional and internationally renowned dark red wine called
Montepulciano
By TuscanyVillages at July 19, 2011 | 10:49 am | 0 Comment
Perched atop a narrow ridge in the Tuscan hillsides is the city of Montepulciano. Equally well-known today for its medieval and Renaissance architecture and its excellent Vino Nobile red wine, Montepulciano is an excellent city to spend a day or two exploring.
Siena
By TuscanyVillages at July 6, 2011 | 2:53 pm | 0 Comment
Florence’s archrival during the Middle Ages, Siena’s magnificent piazza, charming streets, stunning cathedral, churches and museums make it one of the loveliest cities in Italy. With so many sites to see and artistic masterpieces to admire, the following list should provide a start to help you with your travel planning.
San Gimignano
By TuscanyVillages at July 6, 2011 | 2:50 pm | 0 Comment
Often described as the “Medieval Manhattan,” San Gimignano’s 14 towers create a striking impression, and one that has become a well-known aspect of the Tuscan countryside. As one of Tuscany’s top tourist stops, it is often crowded with day trippers. Come off season or stay overnight to explore the historical sights and savour the real magic of this medieval hill
Monastery of Sant’Antimo
By TuscanyVillages at July 6, 2011 | 2:21 pm | 0 Comment
Located near Montalcino is the Benedictine Monastery of Sant’Antimo, home to a beautiful Romanesque church tucked into the Tuscan countryside. Today the monastery is home to a welcoming community of Benedictine monks, and you can hear them singing Gregorian chants
Monastery of San Galgano
By TuscanyVillages at July 6, 2011 | 2:17 pm | 0 Comment
Nestled in the Tuscan hills at the foot of Monte Siepi, San Galgano is one of Southern Tuscany’s most evocative monasteries. San Galgano was a knight from the 12th century who renounced his ruthless past and became a hermit. Without a cross, he miraculously plunged his sword into a stone, around which a chapel was built. The Monastery of San Galgano was Tuscany’s only
