This is another installment of Marilena’s Travel Diaries, giving personal insight into her wonderful trips taken across the Bel Paese. If you wish to see each chapter of Marilena’s travel story then follow the link HERE. Should you instead wish to learn more about what we at Italy with Class offer in this particular region, get in touch via email and the team will help right away.
Standing amidst Florence’s Uffizi Galleries and gazing upon the works of Tuscany’s most fabled artists, one can begin to understand the cultural pull of this rolling region. Yet, despite the universal recognition achieved by the likes of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Sandro Botticelli, Tuscany’s artistic culture is multifaceted. Small-scale artisans, each a master in their craft, have been producing a plethora of artworks in various shapes, forms, and sizes for generations. We took a trip to the region to find out more.
Artisanal Artistry in the Regional Capital
Of course, no visit to Florence is complete without paying a cultural homage to Michelangelo’s famed David, Prisoners, and Pietà sculptures. However, delve a little deeper and a world of creativity will unfurl before your eyes.
An exploration of Tuscany’s artistic culture kicks into life with a glint of sunlight shimmering off a golden service. Steeped in history, the goldsmiths of this region have been in action ever since becoming a key beacon of the Renaissance over 400 years ago.
Gold is not the only precious material being hand-crafted into delightful creations, however. Deep blue lapis lazuli and bright green malachite combine to form magical mosaics, while an additional stop takes us behind the scenes of the precious metals process for Farmacia Santa Maria Novella.
The range of mediums favored by Tuscany’s unheard maestros becomes truly apparent with a stop at one of Florence’s last remaining artisanal silk producers.
We then continue this exclusive journey into the world of Florentine fabrics by visiting its Renaissance marbled paper production methods, before taking a look at some of Italy’s finest leather outlets.
Authentic vineyards in the Tuscan countryside
Yet, Florentine arts and crafts are not the only exports created by these Tuscan experts. A stone’s throw to the south of the city brings us to Chianti, perhaps the region’s most well-renowned area for a tradition of high-quality wines.
Let yourself be transported by a driver-guide into a fairytale land of prestigious labels and great vintages, all paired with local specialties to truly delight your palate. Here you will stroll through vineyards and duck down into cellars, discovering the artistry, expertise, and imagination that blend to make our favorite tipple.
Even without the ancient allure of Rome or Sicily, the Tuscan countryside holds its own intriguing story. A break from the culinary ensemble allows for a short excursion to two villages, where you will learn of the region’s pilgrim paths and marvels of the Middle Ages.
Life in the Tuscan countryside may seem quaint, but this is not to say that there is little to do. A journey into these picturesque lands will leave you picnicking in vineyards, trying your hand at cooking masterclasses, and sampling the best wines that Chianti has to offer.
Through Italy with Class, only authentic boutique wineries are paid a visit, resulting in a family feel and bespoke experience. Who knows, if you arrive in the right season, you may even be picking and stamping down the grapes yourselves.
Returning to Rome
And so ends another of Marilena’s Italian excursions. Whilst her journey through Tuscany is over, the area lays in wait for new explorers yearning to take in its unique charm. Through our strong connection of contacts in the region, Italy with Class can help tailor your very own Tuscan vacation, from luxury accommodations and wonderful restaurants to hidden gems and unforgettable experiences. So, what are you waiting for?
