10 Hidden Gems of Tuscany
Here are ten lesser-known places in Tuscany that absolutely deserve a visit:
Montecatini Alto: Situated above the town of Montecatini Terme, this enchanting medieval village offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside and an enchanting atmosphere. Famous for its Medieval Festival, an annual event that transports visitors back in time with historical re-enactments, flag wavers, medieval craft stalls and juggling shows.
Monteriggioni: This small fortified village, situated just 20 km from Siena, is surrounded by perfectly preserved medieval walls, offering an authentic experience of time travel. Monteriggioni is an ancient medieval fortress in the middle of the Tuscan countryside in the present day.
Anghiari: Situated in the eastern part of Tuscany, approximately 35 km from the city of Arezzo, Anghiari is a charming medieval village known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and authentic character. The ancient village tells millennia-old stories within its ancient walls and is also known for an important historical event: the Battle of Anghiari, fought in 1440 between Florence and Milan. This battle was immortalized by the famous artist Leonardo da Vinci in his painting "The Battle of Anghiari".
La Verna: This Franciscan sanctuary, located on the slopes of Monte Penna in the green forests of the Casentino valley, is a place of peace and spirituality, immersed in the unspoiled nature of the Tuscan Apennines. Particularly known as the place where St. Francis of Assisi received the stigmata in 1224, making it an important site of Franciscan devotion.
Collodi: Mainly known as the birthplace of Pinocchio, Collodi, located in the province of Lucca, a short distance from Pescia, is a delightful village characterized by historic gardens, colorful houses, and a theme park dedicated to the famous puppet.
"Monteriggioni"
Castelnuovo di Val di Cecina: This ancient Tuscan village in the province of Pisa is charming for its narrow streets, stone houses, and the ruins of the medieval castle dominating the surrounding landscape.
Il Giardino dei Tarocchi: This wonderful artistic park, located near Capalbio, is populated by gigantic sculptures inspired by tarot cards and created by the artist Niki de Saint Phalle.
Grotta del Vento: Located in the heart of the Apuan Alps, this network of underground caves offers a unique experience of exploring the underground world, with spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and limestone formations.
Suvereto: This charming medieval village, located in the Maremma Tuscany near the seaside town of Follonica, is known for its cobblestone streets, medieval walls, its excellent local wines and the beauty of its vineyards. In particular, the famous red wine Suvereto DOC is highly renowned.
Castiglione della Pescaia: Located along the Tyrrhenian coast a few kilometers from Grosseto, this picturesque town offers sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a charming historic center dominated by the medieval castle and its characteristic tower. It is a renowned seaside resort, appreciated by both Italian and foreign tourists for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. The beaches of Castiglione della Pescaia are wide, sandy, and well-equipped, ideal for sunbathing and practicing water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Exploring these lesser-known places can offer an authentic and memorable experience of Tuscany, away from the crowds and close to the natural and cultural beauty of the region.
"Anghiari"
Photos Toscana.info