Tuscany

<< Central Italy

Tuscany (Toscana) is a region in Central Italy, known all over the world for its countless artistic and architectural masterpieces, rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and beautiful hills. The region was the cradle of the Etruscan civilization, which was later conquered by the Romans. During the Middle Ages, Tuscany was divided into many comuni, with Florence, Siena, Pisa, and Lucca emerging as the most powerful ones. Florence, under the rule of the Medici family, eventually conquered most of the region, turning from a republic into the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. While it was expanding its territory, Florence was the birthplace and center of the Renaissance, hosting the greatest artists, architects, writers, and scientists of that time. After the Medici family became extinct, Tuscany was ruled by the House of Habsburg-Lorraine, and was under French occupation during the Napoleonic era. Tuscany became part of Italy when the country was unified, and Florence briefly served as its capital. The economy of Tuscany features a rich agricultural and industrial sector, while tourism remains one of the most profitable assets of the region. Indeed, Tuscany is among the most visited regions in Italy, with millions of tourists traveling to see the cities filled with many historic landmarks and outstanding artworks, the villages that dot its wonderful hills, and the seaside resorts on the beautiful coast and the Tuscan Archipelago. Tuscany is also famous for its wonderful natural areas and its renowned wines.