A Tuscany guided tour that focuses on art and culture in Tuscany will introduce novices to the rich artistic heritage of the region, and thrill formal or informal students of the arts. Whether your interest leans toward architecture, painting, sculpture, food, music or theater, there is much to learn and enjoy about art and culture in Florence, Siena and the Chianti region. Transfers from Florence to the artistic attractions in Chianti and Siena are easily arranged in advance.
Arts and Eats in Florence
The city of Florence can be thought of as an open-air museum itself: the architectural marvel of its brick domed duomo that is visible from far across the valley, shops selling hand-made leather goods in every color of the rainbow, museums housing world-famous works of art such as Michelangelo’s “David” statue and Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus”. If you find yourself in the city during the first weekend of the month, be sure to take advantage of the free museum admission on the first Sunday! Do not leave town without trying the bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak), a weighty piece of meat prepared according to a centuries-old recipe.
Chianti Culture
In Chianti, cultural attractions and events center around its namesake wine. Museums and tasting rooms are open year-round for sampling the famous Chianti Classico and perhaps a dish prepared with the pure white cattle of the region, Chianina. Depending on the season, you may be able to participate in some of Chianti’s cultural festivals. Castellina hosts the Calici di Stelle around the feast day of San Lorenzo on August 10th, where artisans and food vendors line the town’s streets for the celebration of wine and summer stargazing. Radda has its own cultural event, the Radda del Bicchiere, every June.
Siena: Horses and History
Siena has a busy calendar of artistic and cultural attractions. Undoubtedly the most famous is the Palio horserace, which combines history and sport to entertain local and foreign guests every summer. The festivities surrounding the tradition are informative about the history of this city’s tight-knit neighborhoods, or contrade, which compete for victory in the race around the Piazza del Campo. The buildings that line the main town square are some of the most visited in Siena: the Gothic Torre del Mangia tower and the Palazzo Publico palace. If you are visiting during one of the quieter times of year, take your time to enjoy Siena’s massive black and white cathedral, the Siena Duomo. It is a stunning structure of striped walls and columns, the black and white evoking the city’s coat of arms.