A scene from Assassins Creed II in Monteriggioni
Located on a hilltop near Siena and San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, characterised by its stunning medieval walls, has been labelled a quintessential Tuscan village. It is well known for its wine production, picturesque countryside location and laid back way of life. It is also one of the most well preserved and best known walled towns in Italy, boasting an almost perfectly circular wall which surrounds the entire village. In the past, Monteriggioni was well and truly caught in the middle, as conflicts raged between Siena and Florence. With its 14 towers and 2 entry gates, it really is a sight to behold, even if it was used as a defence fortification! Continue reading »
The murder of Girolamo Savonarola in the medieval Piazza della Signoria of Florence
“The piazza is packedwith a rabble of poor, filthy peasants. The bell tolls nine, and the crowd’s attention focuses on three men. Having been victims of cruel degredation, they now stand in their under garments, ready to be strung up and burnt to death…” Continue reading »
Landscape of Chianti in Tuscany, Italy
The name may be difficult for some English speakers to say (the correct way is kee-AHN-tee), but despite any minor errors in the pronunciation of Chianti, everyone is aware of the connection with the fine, red wine. The tradition of cultivating this wine goes back to the Etruscans, who lived in this area of Tuscany before the Roman Empire. Due to the almost perfect weather and soil conditions, it’s an excellent place for producing wine. Continue reading »
One of the most famous structures in the beautiful city of Florence is the Palazzo Vecchio, which stands in the historically significant Piazza della Signoria. This incredible place has been the city’s town hall for about 700 years, but this wasn’t its only purpose. The Palazzo Vecchio in Florence is bursting with intrigue, beauty and a long history of hidden secrets.
As one of the main ingredients for the Italian primo piatto or first course, pasta is used frequently in Italian cuisine. Known and eaten all over the world, pasta can be made in different ways, and can be served with a variety of sauces and other ingredients. There are many different types of pasta, and every region has its own particular type.Tuscany is no exception, with its filled pasta, tortelli, as well as papparedelle; a pasta similar to tagliatelle but fatter!