History and Culture

Between the 14th and the 16th century, a great epoch of Humanism and the Renaissance developed in Tuscany, which renewed the culture and art of the times profoundly and left an indelible mark in all of Europe. Much of this very special time in history is conserved in the region, starting in Florence. Large private and religious buildings, sculptures and paintings of extraordinary value evidence the creative work of great geniuses such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo or Brunelleschi.

Land and People

The capital of Tuscany is Florence, located in the north of the region. Other important cities are Pisa, Siena, Grosseto and Lucca. Tuscany is known for its hilly landscape that is characterized by the many pine trees, the cypresses, olive trees and grape vines. The Tuscan Archipelago encompasses Elba, Italy’s thirdlargest island, as well as the smaller islands of Gíglio, Capráia, Pianosa, Montecristo, Giannutri and Gorgona. The residents of Tuscany make their living from tourism. A hearty and friendly atmosphere is to be felt in the entire region.

Food and Drink

The Tuscan cuisine is simple and grounded. It goes back mainly to farming traditions and relies on the individual tastes of the ingredients, which are thus as fresh as possible and used according to the season. The basis is almost always olive oil, which is said to be particularly good here and, with a few added herbs, gives the dishes their aroma. Meat is relatively important in Tuscan cuisine, and beef, pork and lamb, game and rabbit, as well as poultry of all kinds are used and prepared in many different ways.