Experience the 16th century in Siena
Siena is one of the most fascinating places in Tuscany, and a must-visit for anyone in the region. This gorgeous city is famous for its biennial horse race which takes place on July 2 and August 16 every year. Dating back to the 16th century, this iconic race sees jockeys representing each of the city’s districts in a mad dash around the Palazzo del Campo, Sienna’s central square. While the crowds can make it difficult to get a decent vantage point, it is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Elsewhere, the Museo Civico houses some of Italy’s most famous artworks including the Fresco Cycle of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti. The tightly winding streets offer some outstanding medieval architecture leading down into the central square of the Palazzo del Campo. With a host of outstanding restaurants offering classic Italian and local cuisine, this is a great place to sit and enjoy the scenery and some fine food.
Lean back and enjoy the views in Pisa
Set in the heart of Tuscany, this city is famous for a tower that didn’t quite go according to plan. In the 12th century, it became clear during construction work that the soft ground was unable to support the tower’s weight. The tower began to lean more and more as construction progressed.
Most builders might have bailed out of the project, but this group pressed on, and by the end the tower was leaning at an impressive 5 degrees. That has been lessened somewhat after remedial work in the nineties, but the sight of this slightly drunken tower is still slightly disconcerting.
Regardless, the tower makes for a spectacular sight. It is set in the Piazzo dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), which is aptly named. The magnificent square not only holds the tower, but also the Pisa Cathedral which is decorated with beautiful golden mosaics.
Florence—for a flourishing art scene
Art lovers will instinctively be drawn to Florence. This is the birthplace of the renaissance and the home of some of Italy’s most revered artists. The city’s landscape is dominated by the imposing dome of the Duomo. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi this iconic structure towers over surrounding buildings with ornate marble walls and magnificent golden doors. Inside, you can look up and enjoy the Frescos adorning the inside of the dome.
The streets are busy, with plenty of bars and restaurants offering a variety of local and classical Italian cuisine. The city centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since the 1980s and is always busy with artists and performers.
Art lovers will also be treated to a world-class collection of art galleries including the world-famous Uffizi Gallery—home to some of the most famous works from the Renaissance period.
Tuscany and beyond
Each of these cities are magnificent in their own right, but they are also surrounded by the glorious countryside of Tuscany, which boasts a rich heritage, historic Etruscan sites, and some of the best wines in the world.
Tuscany’s top cities can serve as perfect bases from which to explore the whole region. Alternatively, they can make a great day trip for those that would prefer to stay (for the most part) in the tranquil Tuscan countryside.
Whatever you decide, they’re definitely three cities to have on your radar.
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