Highlights of Italy’s most beautiful region

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1. Florence: The Birth of the Renaissance

Around 1500, the Renaissance was born in Florence, the capital of Tuscany. Spiritual current that replaced the Middle Ages and paved the way to modern times. For a brief look at history, Florence was the intellectual center of the (Western) world – world-class art and architecture still testify to this today. Famous artists created their masterpieces in the city at that time: Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Sandro Botticelli and sculptor Michelangelo. If you even have a tale of art and architecture, Florence is a must-see. Everyone else is enjoying the typical Italian urban feel, full of nice cafes, small boutiques and the necessary chaos. www.firenzeturismo.it

2. David: nice piece of man

Probably the most famous work of art in the world is the marble statue of David. At the age of 26 (1501), the sculptor Michelangelo carved the sexy young man from a single block of marble – a masterpiece. The 5.17 meter high shepherd (killer of the giant Goliath) weighs about 6 tons. To be admired at the “Galleria dell’Accademia” in Florence. www.galleriaaccademiafirenze.benikulturel.it

3. Florence: A dome honoring the city

Even those not interested in architecture and art: climbing the dome of Florence Cathedral is still a must. Built around 1430, the dome was the largest of its kind in the world for 400 years (45 meters diameter, 197 meters high). It rises between two brick shells that support the 36,000-tonne structure. From the viewing platform you have a wonderful view of the winding streets of the old town and the rugged countryside.

4. Pisa: Built on sand

A 3.97 degree tilt doesn’t sound like much, but with the “Leaning Tower of Pisa” it looks pretty impressive. Just 12 years after the foundation stone was laid (1173), when only one-third of the church tower was complete, the building swayed to the side. The tower was finally completed almost 200 years later. Worth a visit (and an Unseco World Heritage Site) is not just the tower but the entire area around the Romanesque cathedral, where the baptistery and cemetery are located. It is not in vain that the square is called “Piazza dei Miracoli” – the Square of Miracles. www.turismo.pisa.it

5. Siena: medieval horse races

Tuscany still adheres to medieval and Renaissance traditions. Colorful festivals with ancient traditions can be found everywhere. The most impressive is the “Palio di Siena”: in the medieval main square of the city of Siena, 10 districts compete in a horse race for glory and honor. We rode drawn, bareback horses. The racetrack is narrow, so the race is spectacular. There are also parades and numerous celebrations in historical costumes. Dates: July 2 and August 16. www.terresiena.it

6. Chianti: landscapes that look like they’ve been painted

Tuscany is home to one of Europe’s most famous wines: Chianti. In the region of the same name between Siena and Florence, experts and photographers get their money’s worth: the hilly landscape, with its vineyards, cypress streets and old farms, is the Tuscany of brochures and glossy magazines. Fly: On a car tour to Siena via Greve in Chianti from Florence, you can not only take excellent pictures, but also taste wine and feast on simple trattorias like “La Mama”. One of the most beautiful road trips in Tuscany!

7. Gourmet paradise Tosakana

Like all of Italy, Tuscany is a gourmet paradise: the food is a flavor bomb. One focus is on meat in all variations. Offal is popular. Tripe (Trippa de la Fiorentina), liver or chicken neck are considered delicacies here. Those who do not like such exotic will find their happiness with “Bistecca alla Fiorentina”, a grilled steak from Chiania beef.

Fly: The steaks at “Officina della Bistecca” in Panzano in Chianti are considered the best in the region. It may be true: The restaurant belongs to Tuscany’s most famous butcher. www.dariocecchini.com

8. Elba: island paradise

A different picture of Tuscany can be seen on the seven offshore islands called the «Tuscan Archipelago». The most famous of these is the island of Elba, where Napoleon was once exiled. In July and August, small coves and quaint villages teem with tourists. Even if the sea is still warm enough for swimming, it’s quieter (and more beautiful) for the autumn wine and olive harvest. www.visitelba.info

9. San Miniato: In pursuit of white gold

The medieval mountain village of San Miniato is off the usual tourist trail, except for three weeks in November. Then, the white truffle sales fair takes place here, which attracts gourmets and celebrity chefs from all over the world. If you want to buy a few noble tubers, you need to dig deep into your pocket: the price per kilogram is several thousand euros. It’s cheaper (and more fun) to go tuber hunting by taking an organized tour with a professional tartufai (truffle hunter) and his dog (you can catch any truffles you find). www.trufflehunter.net

Source : Blick