Florence is the capital city of Tuscany. It lies on the Arno River. The city is often considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. One of the most famous bridges in Florence is the Ponte Vecchio, with its multitude of shops built upon the edges, held up by stilts. Florence is also home to the Uffizi gallery, which is among the most visited in Italy. It was built in 1560 in the shape of a horseshoe. It was originally supposed to house the administrative offices of the Grand Duchy.

San Gimignano rises up on a 334m hill, dominating the Elsa Valley with its towers. It began its life as a town in the 10th century taking its name from the Holy Bishop of Modena, St Gimignano, who is said to have saved the town from the barbarian hordes. The construction of the famous lookout towers, which dominate the landscape for miles around, dates back as far as the 11th century. The architecture of the city was influenced by Pisa, Siena and Florence. The historical centre of San Gimignano was made a UNESCO protected site in 1990.

The Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa holds some famous sights. Although Pisa is best known for the famous leaning tower, there are other spectacular sights to behold here. The Duomo di Pisa is the splendid cathedral, as well as many museums, churches, and the Baptistery.

Probably the least known of the Tuscan cities, Lucca was once the capital of Tuscany. This city has maintained its independence for centuries. The citizens have nurtured a special pride that is evident in their many churches, especially the unique Romanesque cathedral. The Puccini museum honours one of Lucca's favourite sons.

 

Chianti is probably Italy's most famous red wine, and it is grown in one of Italy's most important wine growing regions, just south of Florence. There are some white grapes grown in the vineyards here as well. Along with the vineyards winding up the rolling hills, are the famous cyrus trees of the region.