Tuscany – the Region Entirely Woven From Beauty
by Darya Boronilo
Tuscany is a region in the center of Italy entirely woven from beauty: emerald hills lost in a distant purple haze, medieval towns with red clay tiled roofs, and yellow sunflower fields flashing against the unique shades of the Tuscan turquoise sky. Perhaps the vibrant colors of the local clouds and hills inspired the masters of the Renaissance, which originated in this part of Italy.
But would you like to see the beauty of Tuscany personally? Let’s investigate that together! We are heading to the region where you can discover the land’s true essence and where unsurpassed masterpieces of classical art are inseparable from a good table, good wine, and the cheerful hospitality of residents.
Tuscany Weaves Colorful Moments
Does it seem like the photos of Tuscany have been processed in Photoshop? When traveling through the Val d’Orcia valley, you can confidently tell that all those vibrant colors are natural. It’s best to enjoy the beauty of Tuscan landscapes driving along this picturesque valley. So, jump in the small but stylish Italian fiat and ride the winding scenic roads! Green hills here alternate with velvet grass fields; among them are scattered lonely Tuscan luxury villas with tiled roofs and paved paths framed by cypresses.
Pass the silvery olive groves, golden wheat fields, and the vast vineyards where the dark purple bunches of the famous Sangiovese grapes ripen for a new Chianti vintage. No wonder the landscape of Tuscany is loved so much. Bellissimo!
The Heritage Created by Various Civilizations
As you go through the region, you will discover that most local attractions are associated with history. Tuscany owes its present magnificence to its’ rich heritage created by various civilizations. Visit the large museum halls to see the artifacts of Etruscans. They prospered in this territory, and, in their honor, the region received its name. Travel through the most famous cities of Tuscany: Florence, Pisa, Siena, and Lucca, founded by the Romans. Learn about the significant political changes and innovative reforms set in the area by the dynasty of Habsburgs. Discover the French influence on the site, and visit the island of Elba, where Napoleon spent his last days.
Tuscany is a precious box where different nations added a pearl of knowledge, talents, and inventions. Besides, it is the birthplace of modern Italian, where the famous Dante Alighieri wrote his Divine Comedy, and was a cradle of the Renaissance.
Are You Feeling Ok?
Did you know that a particular term – Stendhal syndrome (or Florentine syndrome)- describes the culture shock from the abundance of natural and architectural beauty and art objects? It occurs to those who come to Florence for the first time. You are most likely to feel dizzy and have heart palpitations from all the beauty around you!
So, prepare to walk through the epicenter of art; it’s all within walking distance. The city, which hosts works of the most famous artists that to this day adorn its’ churches and cathedrals, has long received the title of “miracle of human skills in the open air.” Florence, which you admire today, was once the financial center of Italian traders and bankers. The citizens with the financial means desired knowledge and beauty manifested through painting, sculpture, and architecture.
Aesthetics has become a philosophical point of human self-realization. Many rulers, including the famous Medici, sponsored the construction of the most important architectural monuments in the city. The homeland of the traveler Amerigo Vespucci, the great sculptor Michelangelo Buonarroti, and the famous Leonardo da Vinci will surely strike you with an intolerable dose of beauty! We recommend soaking it up slowly, combining it with leisure walks, and alternating it with aperitivo stops.
Soaking in the Healing Waters of Therme
Tuscany is a land not only of culture but also of thermal springs. Among the most precious treasures of the region, they are valued no less than famous works of art. Between Lucca and Siena, there are many thermal springs and spa centers. Those are the places where you can relax and get in great shape. The enchanting landscapes and strolls through the atmospheric towns will complement your spa treatments.
The Baths are an ancient Tuscan tradition that dates back to the Etruscans. They were the first to appreciate the life-giving power of the groundwater. One of the oldest Tuscan spa centers is the famous Saturnia. The Romans considered these places sacred and renamed the resort in honor of the god Saturn. According to legend, he threw lightning into the ground, after which sulfuric water poured out of it.
Famous people like Bayron, Paganini, Puccini, and Napoleon loved spending time at various Tuscan Therme. Now it’s your time to immerse yourself in the warm waters of the springs. Experience the incredible healing effect of waters on the body and the soul!
Gourmet Pleasures and Wine
Time to talk of hedonistic pleasures, for where else if not in Tuscany! This place will surely please you with a wide selection of traditional gourmet products. Those have long been famous far beyond the region. Local farmers follow their ancestors’ ancient recipes and traditions. They produce excellent olive oil, world-famous Tuscan cheeses, cured meats, and sausages such as salame Toscano and finocchiona.
Another real delicacy that Tuscany is famous for is Truffles. Truffles are the ingredient of many local dishes and cheeses, which gives them an exceptional exquisite taste. Truffle lovers can enjoy exclusive dishes from this mushroom but also personally go to pick them in the company of an experienced “Tartufo” (truffle hunter) and his dog.
But above all, Tuscany is one of Europe’s most famous wine regions. Perfect climate and centuries-old winemaking traditions present its best-known Sangiovese-based dry red wines to the world. These include Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. The best combination with Tuscan wines is the greatest invention of Florentine gourmet traditions – Bisteca Alla Fiorentina, Tuscany’s favorite steak.
Ready to explore Harvest time in Italy? Iconic wine-growing areas, experience modern and traditional Tuscan cuisine, become a real connoisseur and make your own wine rating list.
Tuscany is a unique combination of history, culture, and traditions that make this region so exciting and distinctive. There are numerous reasons to discover this destination. Art lovers go to touch the World’s artistic masterpieces, history, and culture; those searching for relaxation want to enjoy Tuscan nature; gourmet travelers wish to indulge in the local cuisine and wines.
And perhaps, sipping a glass of Chianti on the terrace of your Tuscan villa, wondering at the artistic oil painting masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery, or soaking in pleasant waters of hot springs while watching how orange sunset slowly sinks in the purple twilight, you will understand there are many ways to experience happiness. But all those experiences can be lived in one place – Tuscany!
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When you think of traveling to Italy, what comes to mind? The Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the canals of Venice, one of the many Unesco World Heritage sites?
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