Tuscany

Tuscany is a region located in the central part of Italy. Composed of ten provinces, it is an area boasting of rich culture, especially in arts. The region also has several spectacular landscapes and is a known producer of fine wines.

Sights & Activities

In the province of Livorno, there is an impressive monument located in Piazza del Padiglione. The Quattro Mori is a marble monument depicting the Grand Duke Ferdinando II and four bronze statues of chained Muslims. The monument was erected in honor of the Order of the Knighs of St, Stephen.
Another interesting attraction in Livorno is the church of San Ferdinando. Though simple to look at on the outside, the inside of the church contains numerous marble sculptures made by Giovanni Baratta.

Livorno also has a interesting covered market that was built in the 19th century and is of combined Neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles. The Mercato delle Vettovaglie is surely worth a visit by those who wish to catch glimpses of every day trading in the area.

Tuscany boasts of several UNESCO World Heritage sites. One of these is the historical center of Sienna, where the Duomo of Sienna is located. This Gothic church was completed in the 13th century and contains several artworks made by famous artists like Michelangelo and Bernini. Another religious structure in the area is the Baptistry of St. John, located at the Piazza San Giovanni. Highlights of structure include its beautiful frescoes and the baptism font made out of golden panels.

Val d’Orcia is another UNESCO World Heritage site that is composed of medieval villages that produces olive products and wine. In the village of Montalcino are two attractions, the Palazzo dei Priori and the Rocca fortress. Over at the village of Pienza are the Assunta Cathedral and the Palazzo Piccolomini. The area also has its own spa center, located at Chianciano Terme. This particular attraction is quite famous for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Piazza del Duomo is still yet another UNESCO World Heritage site that visitors in Tuscany shouldn’t miss. This square is the location of the Duomo, the Baptistery, the Leaning Tower and the Camposanto or cemetery. The exterior and interior of the cathedral are both impressive, containing several works of art. The Baptistery is a Romanesque building dedicated to St. John the Baptist. It is also considered the largest baptistery in the country. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the bell tower of the church that has tilted to the side due to poor craftsmanship and loose substrate. The Camposanto is a walled cemetery that contains several sculptures and other funerary adornment. Other popular destination in Pisa is the Piazza dei Cavalieri, which features a statue of Cosimo I de Medici in the center.

The region’s capital, Florence, is the location of several impressive churches and other landmarks. The Santa Maria del Fiore is the city’s cathedral that is of Gothic in design. The interior of its dome contains beautiful frescoes painted by Vasari and Zuccari. On the side of the cathedral is the bell tower while situated opposite it is the Baptistery of San Giovanni.

Weather

Visitors who plan to come to the Tuscany region during the summer months of June to August should be prepared for its hot temperature. As autumn approaches, however, rainfall occurs. This cools the entire region somewhat, and October is ushered in with a much more tolerable outdoor temperature. Winter can be cold, though not extremely so. Rain showers and thunderstorms are expected to happen, though its frequency lessens as spring approaches. Visitors should come prepared with an umbrella and a coat, as rainfall can happen in a short notice.