Archive for 'Localities'

Although many travelers in Tuscany tend to stick to the major sites in cities like Florence and Siena, there are also numerous small towns that dot the picturesque countryside which are well worth a visit.

One of these is Poppi, which is located in the Province of Arezzo, located only a few miles to the east of Florence. This makes it an easy day trip when you have tired of the larger city. The name is thought to come from the word "poplo" which means mound or hill, and it is set on top of a hill affording wonderful views of the surrounding countryside.

When you visit this town, there are many sights that you will want to take in during your visit to get a feel for the history and culture here.

Tuscany is filled with beautiful sights to see scattered throughout the memorable countryside. One of the most beautiful areas is located in the Province of Arezzo.

Lucignano is a municipality here located in between Florence and Arezzo, notable for its well-preserved medieval walls. Set on the top of a hill, it was the site of dispute between a range of Tuscan cities between 1200 and 1500, including Siena, Arezzo, Florence, and Perugia.

There are many historical sites to visit within this town, including a bevy of examples of medieval architecture which remain. The best way to appreciate these sights is by exploring on foot.

With a refinement, elegancy, and beauty that dates back to the golden age of Italy, visiting Pistoia allows you to see a well-preserved view into the past in its walled old town. Located just 25km northwest of Florence in Tuscany, visiting Pistoia is a great day trip for anyone renting a villa in northern Tuscany.

It has many interesting facets to explore, including a variety of cloisters, churches, art museums, and palaces from many different eras.

Livorno, used to be known as Leghorn, it is One of the most hauntingly beautiful cities along the Tuscan coast.

There are many simple pleasures to be found here that can help you pass the time, including meandering your way along the seaside promenade that runs all the way up to the cliffs of Romito.

Situated in close proximity to Florence and Arezzo, Loro Ciuffenna is a beautiful town nestled into the countryside at the foot of Mount Pratomagno. Visitors will benefit from the natural beauty that lies all around this town, including the banks of the river Arno and the unique rock formations made up of sand and clay. These are called "balze," and have provided inspiration to many artists throughout the years, including Leonardo da Vinci who would often come to this part of the Tuscan countryside to sketch and paint. The village itself seems forgotten by time, and you will feel the leisurely pace as you stroll through its winding pathways and gentle scenery. There are many small stone houses that are located in and around Loro Ciuffenna, with old bridges left over from the Middle Ages.