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the 2012 Gambero Rosso":
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Lugares para visitar - Agroturismo La Spiga d'Oro
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Pinocchio -Collodi park
Pinocchio Park, Tuscany Inaugurated in 1956, the Pinocchio Park is no ordinary theme park, but rather a precious masterpiece created by artists of great character working together. The literary itinerary, marked out by mosaics, buildings and sculptures set amidst the greenery, emerges from an inspired combination of art and nature. The path is winding, and the dense vegetation means that every stage on the route comes as an unexpected surprise, with the very plants and trees contributing to create the atmosphere and the episodes in the story of the Adventures of Pinocchio. The Park itself is the site of constantly renewed cultural activities that are always mindful of its roots: exhibitions of art and illustrations inspired by children’s literature and the Story of Pinocchio, puppet-making workshops, puppet and marionette shows and minstrels enliven the visit to the Park, depending on the season. Web site Pinocchio
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DISCOVER MONUMENTS OF AREZZO AND CORTONA
Every week you can visit , in small groups (so small price) Cortona,Arezzo, the Tower and City all court and the Arezzo fort.
For information Contact
APT Arezzo
Piazza della Repubblica, 28 Tel 0039 0575 377678 - Fax 0039 0575 20839 info@arezzo.turismo.toscana.it
Colori Toscani tel 0039 0575 26677 info@coloritoscani.it
Bardini Garden offers wonderful views of Florence from its 4 hectares of parkland between the left bank of the Arno River, Montecuccoli Hill and the medieval wall.
Originally it was an arrangement of walled orchards near Mozzi Palace covering the whole of the hill behind it.
In the eighteenth century Giulio Mozzi, who loved gardens, enriched the property with a long fountain wall with a multi-material mosaic at the bottom. In the mid-nineteenth century the baroque garden was enlarged through the purchase of the adjoining Anglo-Chinese garden of Villa Manadora, created by Luigi Le Blanc at the beginning of the nineteenth century.
The square Castle keep (10th century) speaks clearly of the mediaeval origins of Sartianowhich stretches along a ridge dominating Val di Chiana.
Sartiano too can boast civil and religious buildings of indubitable interest: you are particularly urged to visit the church of San Martino in Foro. The Collegiate Church,, dedicata ai Saints Lorenzo and Apollinare, also contains precious works. Civil buildings worth seeing include the Town Hall, Palazzo Piccolomini, Palazzo Goti-Fanelli and Palazzo Cennini. And the Teatro degli Arrischianti (Risk-Takers’ Theatre) is a little gem.
The Civic Archaeological Museum, which houses important Etruscan and Roman finds, is certainly worth a visit. Then on 15th August each year there is the Giostra del Saracino, an enthusiastic horseback challenge of mediaeval origins. Just a few kilometres from the centre, passing through dense uncontaminated woods, you reach the fortified Abbey of Spineto and the mediaeval hamlet of Castiglioncello sul Trinoro.
www.comune.sarteano.si.it
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Valdichiana-San Casciano dei Bagni
This small centre in the extreme south of the province of Siena, on the boundary with Umbria and Latium, was already well known in the middle ages, and today’s visitor sees it precisely as a typical mediaeval village, dominated by the massive rectangular turret of Palazzo Bologna.
The historic centre is worth a visit with its characteristic hill town-plan of alleys and small piazzas. Away from the centre, near the Spa, the Chiesa Basilicale which dates to the year 1000 is of great interest. But though San Casciano, immersed in a lush and uncontaminated nature, is a favourite with farm holiday visitors, it should not be forgotten that a great many tourists come for spa cures such as inhalations, baths and mud treatments. Just a few kilometres away there is the small outlying district of Celle sul Rigo with its majestic 13th century tower and an unforgettable view.
Tourists visiting these places must absolutely not miss tasting the typical local produce.
www.comune.sancascianodeibagni.si.it
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Valdichiana-Montepulciano
This splendid little town –whose artistic and architectural heritage led it to be called the Pearl of the Cinquecento –has preserved its beauty intact. Going up the steep streets of its outlying districts the visitor discovers beautiful palazzos and churches imbued with the unparalleled art of foremost Renaissance architects.
The splendid Piazza Grande, must be seen: the Duomo with its uncompleted façade and the Town Hall, surrounded by Renaissance palazzos. The valley below is an unforgettable view with the outstanding and elegant mass of the Tempio di S. Biagio.
Montepulciano is also a very lively cultural centre. The best known events are the International Art Workshop and the Bruscello, a popular amateur theatre performance whose ancient tradition is rooted in peasant life. Side by side with a still highly important agricultural economy, today there is a notable tourism industry of which one of the main elements is Montepulciano Spa in the locality of S. Albino where the curative properties of mud and waters are exploited.
www.comune.montepulciano.si.it
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Valdichiana-Chiusi
Highly important in the Etruscan period, Chiusi experienced its greatest splendour under the legendary king Porsenna. Very significant finds from archaeological digs that are still successfully under way may be seen at the National Etruscan Archaeological Museum. Opposite the latter is the Duomo. Opposite the latter is the Duomo which already existed in the 12th century and was transformed in 1585, and next to it the Cathedral Museum, established in the 1930’s, which houses important objects including precious illuminated missals.
Numerous Etruscan tombs have come to light on the territory: Pellegrina, Scimmia, Leone, Pania and a great many others. Christianity spread very swiftly in these places, as borne out by theCatacombs of Santa Mustiola and of Santa Caterina. Over and above the catacombs you can also see the so-called Labirinto di Porsenna, an intricate network of underground passages leading to a cistern dating to the 1st century AD.
As a result of the foregoing, but also of its considerable natural attractions, Chiusi is developing its capacity for tourism. An important element is the lake of Chiusi, downstream of the town, which offers the possibility of sport fishing and birdwatching.
www.comune.chiusi.si.it
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Valdichiana-Chianciano Terme
With its more than 200 hotels and its spa centres specialised in curing liver and kidneys, in inhalation therapy and in functional reactivation and re-education, Chianciano Terme is one of the most important spa centres in Italy. And its fame in the field of spa cures has continued without interruption for more than 2000 years.
This is borne out by the many Etruscan and Roman archaeological finds that are continually being discovered throughout the territory and are collected in the recently opened Civic Archaeological Museum. The tourist can also visit the historic centre. In its evocative alleys which open into picturesque piazzas there are authentic art treasures such as the Church of San Giovanni, with the Museo della Collegiata and the Church of the Company (1517); just outside the Porta al sole, the small but precious Chiesa della Madonna della Rosa1585) was built to Baldassarre Lanci design.
The optimal weather conditions and uncontaminated nature of these places also favour a stay that is solely climatic.
www.comune.chianciano-terme.siena.it
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Valdichiana-Cetona village
Situated on the slopes of the mountain of the same name, Cetona retains the characteristic structure of mediaeval settlements with alleys and little roads that wind spirally nel oro on their way to the Fortress.
The prehistoric settlement of Belverde 40.000 years old, is worth a visit. The Monte Cetona Civic Prehistory Museum is interesting with its finds from the Palaeolithic to the Bronze Age. In the Parish Church of San Michele arcangelo.
www.comune.cetona.si.it
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Valdichiana-Divine Sources
The Etruscans were the first to discover the beneficial effects of the spa waters that are everywhere in the area, and they linked their religious cults thereto. Freezing water from the peaks of wooded heights, warm water from the belly of the hills and boiling water, the alive and perennial witness of an active and burning subsoil such as that of the nearby Mount Amiata an ancient volcano whose heart is still beating.
The extraordinary effects these waters had on human well-being convinced the Etruscans that they were certainly of divine provenance. So much so that they built temples near the springs, transforming them into actual places of worship.
Modern science has explained very clearly the chemical processes that give our waters their powers, and we have learnt to exploit them in an infinity of ways, each one more pleasurable than the next.
From the poet Horace, fino ai contemporanei Pirandello, Chagall and Fellini our spas have been frequented by a great number of people, and we may state that we have a tradition in this field that has lasted more than two thousand years: how many can say the same?
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Valdichiana-City of Art
The villages and small towns of Val di Chiana seem to be laid out in accordance with a precise, almost mathematical scheme in which they are about five kilometres distant one from the other.
You hardly have time to recover from the emotion of what you’ve just seen in one place before impact with the very pure lines of another cathedral or piazza knocks you out once again.
The beautiful, in its most absolute accepted meaning, will be found for example in Piazza Baldini, in Chiusi, dominata dalla torre/campanile e dalla facciata severa della cattedrale; oppure a Sarteano, where Beccafumi’s celebrated Annunciation awaits you, as humble as it splendid, in the little church of S. Martino; e poi a Chianciano Termewhose historic centre, piazzas and quarters with their thousand artistic treasures jealously preserve an ancient and glorious past. And again Montepulciano, not for nothing called the pearl of the cinquecento, which can boast works by Renaissance architects such as Michelozzo, Sangallo and Peruzzi who poured their genius into incredibly elegant civil and religious buildings.
Slightly farther north the historic centre of Torrita di Sienais an actual labyrinth of well ordered alleys that open out into piazzas large and small where time seems to have stopped. And perched on a hill a short distance away, Montefollonico welcomes you to its mediaeval village for a journey back through the ages.
You come to the hills and find Trequanda with its alleys, its small piazza and that church whose façade seems like a beautiful stone chessboard. Farther east, Sinalungamarks the northern boundary of this land of Siena – which soon gives way to Arezzo – and dominates the whole valley. The old hamlet, silent and rich in history, is worth a visit to discover its thousand treasures.
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Valdichiana-Typical prodocts
The civilisation of a people is manifested not only through painting, literature and music but also – not to say above all – through its culinary culture.
Nobile di Montepulciano is the first wine to be granted d.o.c.g. and Bianco Vergine Valdichiana is a white wine with the fruity flavour of golden delicious apples, wisteria and the odour of tropical fruit.
As for meat, this is a separate subject: we’re talking about the Chianina meat that gives us those gigantic T-bone steaks which must be cooked on the barbecue. Nomadic gourmets come here precisely to buy or taste our steaks in the place that produces them. Not to mention our charcuterie which is still craft-produced with great passion.
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The Lake in Montepulciano and Chiusi
The lake of Chiusi and the lake of Montepulciano are known in Val di Chiana as the chiari, (lights) for a reason that is quickly explained.
You need only glance eastwards from one of the many villages overlooking the valley and you will see the glimmer of these two lakes, two little stretches of water placed in the middle of the countryside like toy mirrors. The two lakes are indeed small and shallow but their effect on the ecosystem of the whole area is really considerable.
In fact after having aided the local economy for centuries as a source of fish, today they are two truly important natural areas where very rare flora and fauna find an ideal habitat. It’s worth the effort of silently rowing in one of the characteristic boats and discovering the most hidden corners of the two chiari. You will be repaid by the incomparable emotion of seeing a red heron or little egret rise in flight from the canebrake.
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The Terme in Valdichiana
Visiting Val di Chiana means getting in tune with its tuning fork witch, as in a score sensory, vibrates all chords: from those of history fading into legend and mystery to that of pleasure that ends in wellness (in the miraculous waters of Chianciano Terme, Montepulciano and San Casciano dei Bagni) and greedy enjoyment (the great wines of Montepulciano, the culinary influences of Sinalunga with a delicatessen of the highest lineage, the extra virgin Olive Trequanda) from those of the beauty that is substantiated in the landscape and architecture (exploring Sarteano, Torrita di Siena and the aristocratic rural Cetona you will have a proof) to those of the myth suspended between nature (the oasis of Chiusi, the severity of the Monte Cetona) and the harmony of living that is the hallmark of this area, rich of ancient witness.
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"Valle dell'Inferno e Bandella" Ntural Reserves
"Ponte Buriano e Penna" and "Valle dell'Inferno e Bandella" Ntural Reserves
Along the course of the river Arno, in the councils of Arezzo, Civitella in Val di Chiana, Laterina, Montevarchi, Pergine Valdarno and Terranuova Bracciolini, the two Nature Reserves protect the natural environments that were established after the realisation of two dams, built in the 1950s giving life to new marsh and lake areas. The wet land and the unusual morphology created by the river that has dug deeply into the valley bottom generating spectacular "borri" (a kind of gorge with gently sloping banks typical of the area) both contribute to highly diversified habitats ideal for the spreading and reproduction of numerous vegetable and animal species.
It is possible to follow the footpaths through woodland, over hills and along the steep rocky walls of the Valle dell'Inferno and Rondine. The two areas that cover 668 hectares and 531 hectares respectively, form an integrated system of notable interest at a regional level thanks to the nesting of waterbirds, including some rare and endangered species.
The centuries old work of river and the work of man have created a unique environment of its kind, where historical, artistic and natural beauties are brought together.
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"Ponte Buriano e Penna" Natural reserves
"Ponte Buriano e Penna" and "Valle dell'Inferno e Bandella" Natural Reserves
Along the course of the river Arno, in the councils of Arezzo, Civitella in Val di Chiana, Laterina, Montevarchi, Pergine Valdarno and Terranuova Bracciolini, the two Nature Reserves protect the natural environments that were established after the realisation of two dams, built in the 1950s giving life to new marsh and lake areas. The wet land and the unusual morphology created by the river that has dug deeply into the valley bottom generating spectacular "borri" (a kind of gorge with gently sloping banks typical of the area) both contribute to highly diversified habitats ideal for the spreading and reproduction of numerous vegetable and animal species.
It is possible to follow the footpaths through woodland, over hills and along the steep rocky walls of the Valle dell'Inferno and Rondine. The two areas that cover 668 hectares and 531 hectares respectively, form an integrated system of notable interest at a regional level thanks to the nesting of waterbirds, including some rare and endangered species.
The centuries old work of river and the work of man have created a unique environment of its kind, where historical, artistic and natural beauties are brought together.
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Trasimeno lake Museum in Magione -Umbria
Magione (Pg). Divided into four sections named after the four moments of the day that mark the work of fishermen, this permanent display documents the history of fishing on Lake Trasimene through the centuries, once this area's prime source of sustenance. Info: 075.8479.261, e-mail museodellapesca@tiscali.it.
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Tuscany tour 2010-Firenze-Segway tour
Have fun gliding through the timeless streets of the Renaissance Pearl that is Florence and discover all her wonders on the coolest ride of the 21st century!
Our 3 hours tours are limited to small groups, so we guaranty an intimate and unique experience.
The Segway Experience Tour starts with a 30min orientation session at our premises. Once you feel comfortable riding the Segway we will start our journey to the Historic Centre of town, here you will have the opportunity to visit all the important areas of our City.
SEGWAY TOUR WITH PERSONAL GUIDE (90 euros per person): All of our guides are professionals majored in Art, History and Languages so we guarantee they will delight you with their never-ending knowledge and brilliant anecdotes. We will provide you with a set of headphones so you can comfortably listen to your guide.
SEGWAY TOUR WITH AUDIO-GUIDE AND TOUR LEADER (75 euros per person): Their available even for those who would like to hear a recorded explanation but will be accompanied by a person from our staff.
PRIVATE SEGWAY TOUR WITH PERSONAL GUIDE (from 360 euros): Great opportunity to discover Florence only with your family or friends and you get to choose your preferred language.
DURATION: 3 hours
AVAILABILITY: from Monday to Saturday (given in English)
15th of January - 15st of March: Available only the morning tour at 10am
1st of April - 31st of October: Available the morning tour at 10am and the afternoon tour at 3pm
1st of November - 15th of December: Available only the morning tour at 10am
16th of December - 15th January: Not Available.*********
http://www.italysegwaytours.com
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Tuscany tour 2010-City bike tour Florence
I Bike Florence - City bike Tour
2 hours City Bike tour
Period: March to October
Frequency: Everyday 10,00 am & 3,00 pm
Price: � 29,00 per person
Tour Description
Bicycling in Florence is truly a unique tour... this tour is a perfect the city is the perfect introduction to the city center. Florence is perfect for biking.. The bike tour takes you where the bus tours can’t go, in pedestrian areas and little tiny streets. It will take you less time then any walking tours, showing you roads out of the usual tourist paths, too far to be reached by foot, too tiny for a bus! In 2 hours you will visit all the mayor tourist attraction, under the experience guidance of our entertaingn and fun, professional HISTORY-GUIDE. you will ride you through the narrow streets of the main center and the Oltrarno reaching the most amazing monuments of Florence and unknown spots from where to admire the city: Santa Maria Novella, the artisans district, Palazzo Pitti, San Frediano, Ponte Vecchio (the old bridge), the Uffizi square, Santa Crore, Piazza della Signoria, themedieval district, the Duomo, and Piazza della Repubblica..
Along this pleasent stroll in Florence, we will stop at several location for history explanations and fun facts about the history. Relax, enjoy more about the tour and even tasting a wonderful Gelato in the Oltrarno district! (included)
Our guides will help you discover the most out of the cradle of Renaissance in the less time and in the funniest way.. simply perfect as an introduction as well as for veterans. Eitherway, we're sure you'll both agree that biking is the best way to see the "craddle of Renaissance"..
We guarantee>
A limited number of participants.
Original vintage bikes, confortable and well mantained.
A professional tour guide, acknoledged and entertaining, who will take you along our almost traffic-free path.
Safety! Florence city center is mainly pedestrian.
Very affordable price, only €29 per person (10% student discount!!)
Ice Cream is included!
Fun & Entertaining.. lern more with less effort!
Our tours start from our office on Via Calzaiuoli, right in the centre of the city. TWICE a DAY, AM & PM. Just pick up the most conveniente time for your visit.
CHILDREN POLICY Families with children are welcome to join the tour! We provide child seats for younger peeps, kid trailers, and helmets are available by request. Children under 12 are not allowed to ride by themselves, though. They will be accommodated on child seats with Parents or on our tandem bike!
From 1 to 6 years old children are free of charge (including ice cream!) when on board of parents. From 6 to 12 will provide child seats or a Tandem Trailer Bikes with an extra price of Euros 25. Over 12 your guys will be biking on an individual bike. (no reduction will be applied in this case).
STUDENTS SPECIAL 25 EUROS (with Valid student ID and under 26 y.o.)
Departure Daily from Florencetown office at 10.00am and 3.00pm.
Time from 10 to 12 and from 3 to 5 (2hours)
Max no of participants 12 | NO Minimum
Mileage 5-7 miles round-trip.
Terrain Mostly paved roads with very little traffic and bike paths
Difficulty Easy.
Availability March to Octboer. Other dates on request.
Meeting FLORENCETOWN office, via de' lamberti, 1
Price 29 Euro pax.Customer Care: FlorenceTown Via de' Lamberti 1, Florence - Italy- email info@florencetown.com - skype florencetown - tel +39 055 0123994
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Tuscany Country Side Bike 2010 Tour - full day
Period:
March to October
Frequency:
Everyday - Full Day (8 hours about)
Price:
€ 70.00 per person
Change place and scenery, feel a cool breeze, breathe some fresh air, and really see Tuscany! This tour is leaisurely, professionally guided and fully supported bike ride in the Tuscan countryside, just outside of Florence, in the wine area called "Chianti". Our mininvan will meet you at our office in the morning to take you to our bike depot. From there, together with our professional and entertaining, English-fluent tour escort, you will pedal along narrow shaded roads hemmed in by old stone walls. Ride past olive groves, vineyards, medieval castles, and hillside villa estates to reach breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and its surroundings. Several stops along the way, a visit at a local estate, with its vineyard vineyard and cellar, where we taste and learn about Chianti and extra virgin olive oil. Lunch with wine tasting.. to carbo load on bruschetta, pasta and wine, and get ready for the ride back. A magic day in Chianti. An unforgettable experience.
Departure Daily pick up from Florence by Minivan and drive to Chianti.
Time 9 am to 4.30 pm about
Max no of participants 20 | NO Minimum
Mileage 15 miles round-trip.
Terrain Mostly paved back roads with very little traffic.
Difficulty Moderately difficult.
Availability March to Octboer. Other dates on request.
Meeting FLORENCETOWN office, via de' lamberti, 1
Price 70 Euro pax.Operations Office:
- Via de’ Lamberti, 1
50123 Firenze, Italia
Info & Reservations:
Tel. (+39) 055 0123994 INFO@IBIKEFLORENCE.COM
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Tuscan tours 2010-Tuscany on a Vespa scooter
Period:
ALL YEAR ROUND
Frequency:
every day at 9.30 am
Price:
120,00
Drive along scenic and silent country roads through the hillside of Tuscany on a Vespa scooter admiring the sights, smells and sounds of the Chianti region!
- 1 DAY TOUR IN THE TUSCAN COUNTRY SIDE -
this tour is a full day experience in the Tuscan countryside.
Tour starts at 9.30 from Florence Train Station.
We will pick you up with one of our confortable, air-conditioned mini-van and we take you to the countryside, away from the busy and husseling city. First you will receive an orientation conducted by an English speaking trained professional ensuring the safe operation of the Vespa before we head out for our engaging and enjoyable ride.
We will drive along quiet and scenic country roads offering splendid views of the rolling hillside and visiting different small medieval villages in the heart of Tuscany and enjoying the most fabulous of the landscapes. Next, we will stop for lunch at a castle* of the Tuscan specialties with a little tasting of some of the most famous Chianti wines, locally produced.
We will drive you back to Florence Train Station at about 4.30pm.
You need A valid drivers license is required and you must be at least 18 years of age. However, you do not need a motorcycle license.
BRING A FRIEND WITH YOU! PASSENGER PAYS ONLY 90e.
From 12-18 only as passenger. Not suitable below.
If you do not feel comfortable driving, you can choose to ride with an experienced guide.
Daily departure from Florence at 9.30 am and the tour lasts up to 7 hours.Operations Office:
- Via de’ Lamberti, 1
50123 Firenze, Italia
Info & Reservations:
Tel. (+39) 055 0123994 INFO@IBIKEFLORENCE.COM
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Arezzo
Cortona-Tuscany
some picture of a tipycal week end
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Tuscan tour-In Arezzo Movie set
Visit Arezzo the Etruscan city, in the hystorical centre of the village, you can see the natural set of the movie "La Vita è Bella" with Oscar prize Roberto Benigni
Of ancient origins as evidenced by the findings of Etruscan and Roman remains, Foiano is situated in the centre of the Val di Chiana. The historic centre, enclosed by two circles of walls, is marked by Renaissance art and architecture. Places to visit include the Church of the SS Trinità, which contains a work by Pomarancio, and the Church of Santa Maria della Fraternità, XV cent, which contains a glazed terracotta attributed to Luca and Andrea della Robbia. Beyond the first circle of walls is the Collegiata di San Martin, which contains a painting showing the Coronazione della Vergine con Santi , a late work by Luca Signorelli and a glazed terracotta, Madonna della Cintola, attributed to Andrea della Robbia. Some kilometres from the historic centre towards Pozzo della Chiana, stands the isolated Tempio di Santo Stefano della Vittoria, XVI cent,. commissioned by Cosimo I as a symbol of the victory over the Sienese in the Battle of Scannagallo. In February and March, the historic centre of Foiano becomes the scene for one of the oldest Carnivals in Italy.
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Cortona
On a 600 m high hill it dominates the whole Valdichiana as far as the crests of Monte Amiata. Its medieval buildings and lanes give the town an evocative atmosphere. The Basilica di Santa Margherita and the Franciscan Santuario delle Celle invite the visitor to follow an itinerary of art and faith starting from the upper side of Cortona. On the contrary,walking down via Nazionale, once Ruga Piana, the only flat street in town, you reach Piazza della Repubblica where are the Palazzo Comunale and Palazzo Casali, once mansion of the noble family now seat of the Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca e della Città di Cortona (collection of Etruscan and Roman finds). At the north side of the town, opposite the Renaissance Cathedral, is the Museo Diocesano which contains works by great local artists like Luca Signorelli and an Annunciazione by Fra Angelico, one of his most beautiful works. Outside of town, at the foot of the hill, are the Meloni I and II del Sodo, Etruscan tumulus tombs of the VI cent BC. Towards Foiano della Chiana there is the Abbey of Santa Maria a Farneta which, with its crypt, is one of the oldest Aretine Romanesque examples. An event not to be missed is Cortonantiquaria, one of the most interesting national antique fairs. It takes place annually in the XVIII cent. Palazzo Vagnotti (from the last Saturday of August to the second Sunday of September).
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Castiglion Fiorentino
It has Etruscan-Roman origins, with a nearly entirely preserved circle of walls dominated by the Cassero (donjon). Recent excavations have discovered a V cent. BC sacred area. The Pinacoteca Comunale contains valuable works of jewllery of the XIII cent. and paintings by Margarito, Taddeo Gaddi, Bartolomeo della Gatta and Giorgio Vasari. The XVI cent. Loggia of the Palazzo Comunale, like a balcony, provides a view of the valley of Chio, the natural link between the Valdichiana and the Valtiberina. In the month of May, during the Maggio Castiglionese , many culture,sport, music and food-and-wine events take place. On the third Sunday of June the Palio dei Rioni Castiglionesi, a horse tournament, is held in Piazza Garibaldi outside the walls.
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THE ETRUSCANS IN THE LAND OF AREZZO
Following an itinerary in the wake of the Etruscans still fascinates a lot of visitors, partly due to the magic that this race evokes, and partly due to the aura of mystery that despite numerous findings still surrounds this great civilisation.
The itinerary winds its way along the regional road 71, the Umbro-Casentinese, starting from Cortona, passing through Castiglion Fiorentino and Arezzo, and ending up at Pieve a Socana, in the municipality of Castel Focognano. There are two valleys in the territory of Arezzo that conserve considerable Etruscan testimonies, the Valdichiana and the Casentino. Thanks to their geographic positions both were chosen for settlements by the Etruscans, the former representing a passageway towards the south and Chiusi, and the latter towards the north, beyond the Apennines.
As soon as we think of the Etruscans, the symbolic figure that comes to mind is the Chimera of Arezzo, unearthed in 1553 during the restoring of the walls.
This bronze work, considered one of the maximum expressions of the art of casting during Etruscan times, dates back to the beginning of the fourth century BC and represents an animal figure with the head of a lion, a second head in the form of a goat and a long serpent’s tail. After being brought to light the bronze was transferred from the city of Arezzo to Florence, where it is still on display today in the Museo Archeologico Nazionale (National Archaeological Museum).
The name the Etruscans gave to Cortona, "Curtun" can be read on a base in bronze conserved in the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca since 1700.
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The Valdichiana
The Valley of the Chiana is the most vast of the Apennine valleys occupying more than 500 square kilometres of immaculately tended cultivation appearing as a garden from Cortona, the old city which dominates it from its height of 600 m. Already 22 centuries ago it must have been considered the granary of Etruria since Hanibal, before crossing it to draw the Roman legions into the ambush at Trasimeno, was able to supply his troops by sacking it.
But more than the evidence recorded by historians, are the archeological remains and the cultural traditions which reveal the Val di Chiana as the land of ancient civilisation. The hypogean tombs of Camucia and Sodo, the remains of Farneta, the museum of Cortona, confirm that the Etruscans populated and cultivated this valley battling with the forces of the water which for thousands of years had swamped it.
When Leonardo, more than 15 centuries later, designed his “Codice Atlantico”, the Val di Chiana appeared again as a lake. That is why, on the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Barbaric invasions and mainly the Gothic wars which stained Italy with blood for almost all of the VI cent., depopulated the countryside. No longer carefully attended, the land was once more invaded by the waters.
The Lorena reclamation, at the beginning of the XIX cent., designed and directed by the Aretine Vittorio Fossombroni, restored its ancient fertility to the valley, re-establishing villages and farm houses, wonderfully designed, and, for a time, extraordinarily functional.
It was not always, however, an isolated paradise.
After Hanibal, other epic historical events took place in the valley during the process which brought about the establishment of the Tuscan State. The Battle of Pieve al Toppo (1288) in which the Aretines inflicted a tough defeat on the Sienese, who were at the time allied with the Florentine Guelphs, and the battle, called Scannagallo (1554) because of the large number of mercenary French soldiers killed, which took place near Foiano and determined the subjection of the Republic of Siena to Cosimo de’ Medici, First Grand Duke of Tuscany. Many extraordinary geniuses of art were born here amongst the most famous of whom are Luca Signorelli, Pietro da Cortona, Andrea Sansovino, and in our own century, Gino Severini. The Autostrada del Sole and the Rome-Milan railway line cut the valley lengthwise. Two state roads, the Umbro-Casentinese and the eastern branch of the Cassia, following the curving line on both sides, provide excellent connections with the larger centres while a dense network of good provincial roads allows for the crossing of the valley in all directions and for the discovering of the most beautiful spots.
The Val di Chiana was the granary of Etruria and is still today the only area where the most prized breed of cattle is raised, the Chianina, which is derived directly from the pre-historical “bos primigenius” . This agricultural vocation characterizes the economy of the valley, where activities connected to cereal crop production, sugar beet, quality oil production and a typical wine “Bianco Vergine”, prosper.
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A Trip Della Robbia Families
CASTIGLION FIORENTINO: collegiata di San giuliano,palazzo comunale,Museo della pieve di San Giuliano.
CIVITELLA IN VALDICHIANA: Porta Senese.*******************
CORTONA: Museo diocesano.*********************************
FOIANO DELLA CHIANA: Chiesa di San Francesco,Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo,Chiesa di Santa Maria della Fraternita,Collegiata dei Santi Martino e Leonardo.
LUCIGNANO: Oratorio della misericordia.******************
MONTE SAN SAVINO:Chiesa di Santa chiara
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Bici tour Sentiero della bonifica
From Arezzo to Chiusi, by bike through the tuscany of nature and of man, following the footsteps of the etruscans, along the valley of earth and water, marked by art and genius
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Parco zoo poppi
www.parcozoopoppi.it
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Etruscan Museum in Cortona-Tuscany-Italy
Etruscan museum in Cortona, it's possible visit Etruscan Tombs
http://www.cortonamaec.org/
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Cortona
etruscan village,you can visit:tombs,museum
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Arezzo
25 km from spiga d'oro, you can visit anfiteatro romano,piero della francesca,i della robbia,casa museo ivan bruschi,crocifisso ligneo cimabue,fortezza,duomo
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Firenze
Bardini Garden -Florence
Bardini Garden offers wonderful views of Florence from its 4 hectares of parkland between the left bank of the Arno River, Montecuccoli Hill and the medieval wall.
Originally it was an arrangement of walled orchards near Mozzi Palace covering the whole of the hill behind it.
In the eighteenth century Giulio Mozzi, who loved gardens, enriched the property with a long fountain wall with a multi-material mosaic at the bottom. In the mid-nineteenth century the baroque garden was enlarged through the purchase of the adjoining Anglo-Chinese garden of Villa Manadora, created by Luigi Le Blanc at the beginning of the nineteenth century.
Bike in Florence and Rome
1 hour 4€ - 5 hours 10€
Segway in Florence and Rome
1 hour 28€ - 3 hours 65€
ITALY SEGWAY TOURS is not only in charge of supervising and managing our Segway and Cruiser Bike Guided Tours but also handles all types of Segway & Cruiser Bike rentals; from private to multiple events. All our Cruiser Bikes have V-brakes to stop quickly and multiple speeds to choose your level of pedal-pushing effort
How to rent a bike or Segway
The minimum age for hiring a bike or a Segway is 18 years, under which the presence of an adult will be necessary to assume all responsibilities. Riders must have the ability to make motions such as climbing and descending stairs without assistance. The Segway is not appropriate for those weighing under 100 pounds (45 kilos) or over 250 pounds (113 kilos). The use of the Segway is Not recommended for pregnant women
Return of the bike or Segway
The return of the bike and the hired equipment will have to take place within the fixed time; delays will be liable to surcharge Responsibility The hiring of a bike involves the user to assume full responsibility of things, persons and the Segway or Bike itself with its equipment. The client will have to pay repair and substitution costs in case of damage, loss or theft according to wholesale price.
If you are interested in renting a fleet of Segways and Cruiser Bike please fill the box bellow.http://www.italysegwaytours.com/rents-segway-cruiser-bike.asp?lang=en
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Tuscan tours 2010-Semi-private tours in Florence for 2009
Semi-private tours in Florence for 2009
Tour description:
This venue is designed for parties who would like to join some tours with other travellers. The tour goes to the cathedral, the Duomo and to the Baptistry with its gates of paradise doors. It continues to the Accademia Museum to see Michelangelo's David (we have a reservation for the museum!). Then it goes to the Ponte Vecchio then to Piazza della Signoria finishing at Santa Croce to see Michelangelo's tomb.
Operates:
Wedn: from 2 pm to 5 pm
Thurd: from 2 pm to 5 pm
Frid: from 10 am to 12 pm
The tours will not operate in August
Duration:
3 hours
Meeting point:
Piazza della Signoria by Cosimo I statue
Price:
€ 55 Per person
Note:
The admission to the Accademia Museum (€ 14) and to Santa Croce (€ 5) are not included in the price of the tour.
Groups are max 8 people.
Details
Please reserve in advance do not show up without having booked, we have limited places!****************************
http://www.walksinsideflorence.it/private_EN.htm
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Tuscany tours 2010-Florence for connoisseurs - The Vasari Corridor
Florence for connoisseurs - The Vasari Corridor - Privilege tour
This tour is designed for travelers who already know the city, but who want to explore something off-the-beaten track. We can give you the unique chance to visit the Vasari Corridor, normally closed to the public unless pre-booked well in advance, perched above the ancient shops lining the Ponte Vecchio.
Step back in time in this corridor, a hidden passageway over the Ponte Vecchio housing the world’s largest collection of self-portraits by renowned artists and offering some of Florence’s best views. Built by Vasari for Cosimo I, it was a private passageway where the grand duke could walk safely, away from prying eyes.
It runs through the Oltrarno neighborhood and ends up in the Boboli Gardens. From there we walk to the Brancacci Chapel and its outstanding frescoes by Masaccio. It became the leading school for Renaissance artists, where many of them trained by copying Masaccio’s works.
This above is a suggested itinerary only, if you wish to exclude some site or include others, please feel free to tell us.
Details
Minimum duration: three hours - Minimum number 10 people.
Advanced booking necessary. Ask for more details.
PLEASE NOTE:
The Uffizi museum charges 365,00 Euros up to 10 people for special opening plus 14,00 Euros per person for the Uffizi ticket (since the Corridor is normally closed). We do charge the cost of guided tour only.**********************
http://www.walksinsideflorence.it/connoisseurs_EN.htm
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Tuscany tours 2010-Florence Panoramic tour
Florence Panoramic tour
On this florence tour we will take you to see the breathtaking view of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo, the romanesque church of San Miniato al Monte, a special place favoured by monks for meditation and prayer. We will take you then to Fiesole to finish up the tour there.
This above is a suggested itinerary only, if you wish to exclude some site or include others, please feel free to tell us.
Details
Transportation required: taxi, limo or minivan. *********
http://www.walksinsideflorence.it/panoramic_EN.htm
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Tuscany tours 2010-Firenze - The Uffizi tour
The Uffizi Tour. Uffizi Guided Tour.
Immerse yourself in the heart of Florence, its history and its art. Our uffizi guided tour starts in the cobbled streets of central Florence. The first stop is Piazza Signoria, a veritable open-air museum, where our guide will give you an overview of the city and its history, by outlining the main political and social developments in mediaeval and Renaissance Florence.
After soaking up the atmosphere of the square we then proceed to the neighbouring Uffizi Gallery. This is home to one of the most renowned collections of Italian Renaissance masterpieces, as well as outstanding Classical sculpture and impressive frescoes, boasting major works by Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci and Giotto.
It also offers stunning views of the city, the Ponte Vecchio and the Oltrarno district. The tour comes to an end on the Gallery terrace, where you can sip a cappuccino and enjoy the panoramic views of the city skyline.
This above is a suggested itinerary only, if you wish to exclude some site or include others, please feel free to tell us.
Details
Minimum duration: two hours *****************************
http://www.walksinsideflorence.it/uffizi_EN.htm
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Tuscany tours 2010-Firenze The Michelangelo tour
The Michelangelo tour
In the atmospheric setting of the Bargello museum, a medieval palace used as a prison during the 16th century, we will visit the city’s most significant collection of Renaissance and ‘mannerist art’. One of the earliest works by Michelangelo on display here is the intriguing Bacchus, the clearest expression of the artist’s youthful sensuality.
We look at other significant works by Michelangelo too, including his Brutus, David-Apollo and the Tondo Pitti. The museum also hosts Donatello’s masterpiece, the bronze David, as well as the David by Verrocchio, another outstanding Renaissance work commissioned by the Medici and recently restored. Another highlight of the Bargello is the glazed terracotta work by Andrea and Luca Della Robbia.
On leaving the Bargello we stroll down the road to look round the imposing church of Santa Croce, where Michelangelo and other distinguished Italians are buried. The tour culminates with a trip to the Galleria dell’Accademia where we marvel at the mastery of Michelangelo’s David, his unfinished Prisoners and the Palestrina Pietà.
This above is a suggested itinerary only, if you wish to exclude some site or include others, please feel free to tell us.
Details
Minimum duration: three hours
http://www.walksinsideflorence.it/michelangelo_EN.htm
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FIRENZE TOUR-VISIT TUSCANY
VISIT TUSCANY
If you want to see Tuscany, Umbria and the province of Viterbo, please book through our Guide Centre.
Here some of our proposals for you:
FLORENCE
1. The casket of the Italian artistic treasures
Its Great Museums:
The Uffizi gallery, The Accademia gallery, The Palatina gallery at Pitti Palace, The Bargello National museum
2. The genius ’cradle Michelangelo and his sites:
The Medici chapels, The Accademia gallery ,Casa Buonarroti, Santo Sprito Church
Dante and the city of the dugento
Dante’s district and the old towers, the Comedy sites
Brunelleschi and Donatello
The Duomo and its cupola, San Lorenzo church, Piazza SS Annunziata, Santa Croce church
3. the city of the Medicis
Palazzo Medici Riccardi and San Lorenzo church, Palazzo vecchio, The Vasari’s corridor, Pitti Palace and the Boboli gardens.
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Florence open tour -Tuscany
Florence open tour, Open top double-decker buses – 360° panoramic view
The tour lasts approx. 2 hours
19 stops in the old town centre
A bus every 20/30 minutes at each stop
8-language commentary (Italian, English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Chinese and Russian ) provided by disposable headset
Hostess or Steward on board
Hop-on and hop-off the bus at each stop, limitless trips for all the validity of the ticket ( 24 or 48 hours)
Florence Open Tour operates all year round without any break. First departure at 9:00 a.m. Last departures according to the seasonal schedule.*********************
http://www.florenceopentour.it/index-en.asp
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THE MALL Outlet Firenze-Tuscany
THE MALL Outlet Firenze-Tuscany ***************************
THE MALL OUTLET LECCIO REGGELLO (FI)
Via Europa, 8
Tel.0039 055-8657775
Open Monday-Sunday 10-19 **********************************
www.themall.it
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The Polo Museale of Florence
The Polo Museale Fiorentino is an institution which administers the largest ensemble of art works in Italy.
It includes twenty museums varying in importance from the Uffizi Gallery to the Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi, from the Accademia Gallery to the Cenacolo of Santa Apollonia. It employs over 900 persons (art historians, administrative staff and warders, restorers, photographers, librarians), is responsible for 250 thousand catalogued works of art, and receives over 5 million visitors each year.
The purpose of the Polo Museale is to care for the immense artistic heritage preserved in its museums, villas, historical gardens and conventual buildings, that has been handed down from the glorious past of the city of Florence and its territory; first and foremost from the Medici collections, and later added to by the Lorraine and Savoy rulers and finally by acquisitions made by the State from ecclesiastical and private collections.
The Polo Museale of Florence is part of the State administration of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage. It is run by a Superintendent, who is also a qualified art historian, in the person of Cristina Acidini.*********
http://www.polomuseale.firenze.it/english
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www.museoleonardo.it
Leonardo da Vinci Museum, in the castle of Vinci, Tuscany,Italy
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Firenze,Florence 90 km from spiga d'oro
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Grosseto
THE MAREMMA REGION-VISIT TUSCANY
THE MAREMMA REGION
THE MAREMMA REGION
The artistic treasures of Southern Tuscany
Massa Marittima:
From a powerful ore castle to a city full of artistic treasures
Pitigliano, Sovana and Sorano:
Old, fascinating villages on the brim of rocky tuff stone
The Mount Amiata: the sacred mountain:
Here the villages of Santa Fiora, Castel del Piano and Abbadia lie on the slope of an old volcano.
The Etruscans:
Roselle:
The powerful Etruscan city on the Prile lake and its extraordinary built up area
Vetulonia:
The rich Vetluna with its monumental tombs and museum
Sovana:
The Romanesque cathedral and its tuff stone necropolis
Cosa:
The ancient Roman colony and the Etruscan passage at Ansedonia
The Accesa lake:
Etruscan ore built up with houses and tombs
Grosseto, Vetulonia, Orbetello
Wonderful Etruscan Museums with a modern touch
The Maremma region and its sea:
The Giglio island
Monte Argentario
Talamone
Castiglione della Pescaia
An overwhelming and fascinating environment with harbours, islands ,rocky cliffs and never ending beaches
Wildlife:
National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago
Maremma natural Park
Monte Argentario
Conservation Areas
Sea, nature ,trekking ,green weeks, birdwatching. ********
http://www.guidesiena.it/en/verde/visita_toscana.html
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Perugia
Orvieto city underground
The Tour
A pleasant guided tour along a very easy route makes it possible to get to know Orvieto’s underground world, created by its ancient inhabitants over about 2500 years of uninterrupted digging. An hour-long tour on a discovery of a millenary, surprising and unexpected “Underground City”.
Tours Umbria 2010-Tour Etruscan and Roman Umbria-Perugia
1.Etruscan and Roman Umbria
Four different itineraries explore the places where the ancient inhabitants of Umbria left the traces of their culture
1) Etruscan Perugia
FULL-DAY TOUR: PERUGIA.
The capital city of modern Umbria was founded by the Etruscan people around the VI century B.C.
Programme: in the morning, see two of the six surviving town gates. The Porta Marzia (Gate of Mars) is now part of the XVI century Rocca Paolina Fortress, but it still boasts a fine set of III century b.C. statues surmounting the white stone arch. To the other side of town, the imposing Arco di Augusto (Gate of Augustus) used to mark the northern access to the town. The two grand towers flanking the gate and the original walls , set up without mortar, make of this gate a true must-see.
In the afternoon there are several options. We suggest the visit to the Etruscan Well, located just next to the main fountain square (admission). The well is an amazing work of engineering going back to the III century b.C., still perfectly functioning. After that, a short walk is needed to reach the Archaeological Museum (admission). A large collection of Etruscan artefacts include the Sperandio Sarcophagus, the cippus of Perugia and the bronze pieces once part of a chariot.
In alternative, visitors can move by private coach to the Necropolis del Palazzone, where the Volumni Hypogeum is to be found (admission) .This is an underground tomb in the shape of a well-off Etruscan house, with ash-boxes still inside. Smaller and simpler tombs are located all around the site.*************************************************
http://www.assoguide.it/portale//?q=node/166
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Umbria tours 2010-Todi tour
Todi
Todi is a fascinating old town located in a delightful panoramic position on a hill in the central area of Umbria. It offers a number of interesting well preserved medieval buildings rich in history. It is the home of Jacopone, a great mystic and a poet from the 13th century, and a remarkable figure of the Franciscan order and Italian literature.
The car park is connected to the hill top by means of a lift.
HALF DAY TOUR:
• Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione: this is a majestic domed church dating back to the 16th century, on a Greek-cross plan influenced by Bramante. It was built in consequence of a miracle. It is the most significant monument in the Umbrian Renaissance architecture.
• Church of S. Fortunato: a rare and beautiful example of German-style late Gothic hall church. In the crypt one finds the relics of Jacopone, the medieval friar and poet also known as “The mad of Christ”.
• The main square is bordered by three balanced and well-proportioned Gothic buildings and introduces to the Duomo, which reveals in its interior a peculiar and articulated history.
IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME:
• The Medieval quarter: a stroll among Etruscan and Roman remains, fountains and small churches from the period of medieval communes such as St. Ilario and S. Mary in Camuccia, which preserves a precious 12th-century wooden statue of the enthroned Madonna and Child (“Sedes Sapientiae”).
• “Nicchioni romani”: those are impressive monumental constructions which were part of a Roman public area.
DURING YOUR FREE TIME:
In Todi one finds a notable number of antique shops and original inlaid wood workshops.
At Todi try the excellent Grechetto wine from the local winery Cantina Tudernum, where tastings of local cuisine is also available.***************************************
http://www.assoguide.it/portale//?q=node/129
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Umbria tours 2010-Orvieto tour
Orvieto
The town was built on top of a tufa rock reachable via a cable car.
Of Etruscan foundation, it has extraordinary artistic jewels.
HALF DAY TOUR:
• Duomo: a true masterpiece of the Italian art of the Middle Ages, it is a perfect combination of architecture, carving and painting . The façade is adorned by beautiful mosaics, while in the interior the Reliquary of the Corporal is a goldsmith’s art piece, and the St. Brizio chapel boasts the magnificent Renaissance frescoes by Luca Signorelli depicting the final Judgment (entrance fee).
• People’s Palace: a splendid 12th-century example of civic building made in tufa, perfectly harmonized with the medieval appearance of the city.
• Medieval Quarter: a walk between churches and palaces in the gilt tufa light. To admire: church of St. Giovenale , St. John and St. Domenico churches, this last one having a beautiful marble tomb carved by Arnolfo di Cambio (XIII C)
IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME:
• St.Patrick’s Well: a deep well encircled by two spiral staircases each with 248 wide steps to provide an emergency water supply in the event of a siege, genial work by the papal architect Antonio di Sangallo the Younger (entrance fee).
• “Crocifisso del Tufo” Necropolis : the Etruscan necropolis at the base of the Orvieto hill shows many tombs placed in form of houses and streets (entrance fee).
• “Claudia Faina”Museum: it is a rich private archaeological collection inlcuding coins, Attic vases and Etruscan finds (entrance fee).
• National Archaeological Museum: among the highly interesting Etruscan exhibits there are arms and bronze items, red and back-figured vases, and two reconstructed painted tombs where original paintings are displayed.
DURING YOUR FREE TIME:
Wine tasting (Orvieto classico) and local ceramics are recommended.**********************************************
http://www.assoguide.it/portale//?q=node/130
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Umbria tours 2010-Gubbio tour
Gubbio
Located on the lower slopes of mount Ingino, Gubbio is one of the most beautiful and best preserved medieval towns in Central Italy.
HALF DAY TOUR:
• The Piazza and the Consoli Palace : resting on a hanging square built in the 13th century, the Consuls’ Palace is a highly impressive Gothic-style public building. Now turned into a museum, it displays the famed “Tavole Eugubine”, seven bronze-engraved panels which are the longest surviving document recording the early Umbrian civilization. On the first floor there is a painting gallery and a group of ceramics by Renaissance potter Mastro Giorgio. Splendid view on the mountain environnment from the loggia (entrance fee).
• Church of St. Francis: it was built on the spot where St. Francis wore his penitential habit received from a friend. It displays 15th-century frescoes by local artist Ottaviano Nelli.
• Cathedral: easy to reach via a modern elevator, the church is an austere Gothic building offering a distinctive medieval atmosphere.
• Saint Martin’s District : it is a typical neighbourhood located along the Camignano river, where one is immersed in the most intimate and ancient aspect of Gubbio.
IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME:
• Church of St. Agostino: the impressive cultural heritage of Gubbio is witnessed by the paintings in this church, depicting the life of St. Agustin by Ottaviano Nelli and his pupils.
• St. Ubaldo Basilica : situated at the very top on Mount Ingino, it can be reached by cable car or by coach. Overlooking the whole valley and providing a superb view, the church contains the three Ceri (“candles”, or heavy wooden pillars) involved in the Ceri Festival that occurs each May 15. Also the incorrupt body of St. Ubaldo is exhibited there.
DURING YOUR FREE TIME:
Celebrated ceramics of the “lustro” type, boasting a peculiar glossiness, are available in many shops around the town.
In May the above-mentioned Corsa dei Ceri is an attraction to many locals and tourists. Three large wooden “candles”, each representing a saint, are carried at considerable speed through the narrow alleyways of Gubbio and up the steep hill . Hence the nickname of “Looney people of Gubbio”!**************************************************
http://www.assoguide.it/portale//?q=node/126
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Umbria tours 2010-Assisi tour
Assisi
The pink stone town of Assisi is the home of the Umbrian mysticism. The outstanding figures of the two local saints, Francis and Clare, intertwine with the artworks of the most famous painters of the Middle Ages.
It is convenient to start the tour from the upper part of the town so that the down hill itinerary is easier.
HALF DAY TOUR:
• St. Clare Basilica: Clare is the founder of the order of the Poor Clares . She is buried in the crypt of this church where the Crucifix that spoke to St. Francis is also preserved.
• Piazza del Comune: here are the civic buildings dating to the medieval Commune, the People’s Tower and an interesting Roman sacred construction named Minerva temple. Below the square there are finds of a large Roman public area.
• St. Francis Basilica: centre of the Franciscan spirituality and cradle of the medieval European art, the Basilica was built upon the Saint’s tomb. The double papal Basilica was founded by Pope Gregory IX and is an architectural masterpiece containing some of the finest paintings of medieval Italian art, from Cimabue to Giotto, Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti, Jacopo Torriti and Pietro Cavallini. The frescoed cycles of the Old and New Testament and the panels on life of St. Francis reach the climax on the medieval theology whilst the Franciscan Order was growing in power.
NB: The detailed guided visit of St. Francis Basilica is only allowed by means of headsets to be rented at the cost of € 1,80 per person. It is highly recommended to all visitors. The visit lasts about 1 hour. The service is also available for city tours.
IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME:
• St. Rufino Cathedral: it has a magnificent Romanesque-style façade. The church, containing the font where both Saint Francis and Saint Clare where baptized, is located in the upper part of Assisi, an area of great charm and history.
• S. Damiano: a quaint stone monastery, where Saint Francis heard the voice of the Crucifix that spoke to him, and also the site where Saint Clare and her first companions lived their cloistered religious life. To be reached either on foot or by minibus.
• Carceri Hermitage: situated on a slope of Subasio mount, it is a remarkably secluded and peaceful spot, also symbolic of the high spirituality of the first Franciscan friars. To be reached by minibus only.
• St. Maria degli Angeli: it is a large, imposing Basilica situated on the valley just below Assisi. It covers a little oratory, named Porziuncola, where Francis and his companions first came to live in simple huts. It represents the beginning of the Franciscan communities.
NB: For full-day guided tours we recommend the excursions to the Carceri Hermitage and to San Damiano. A convenient, comfortable mini-van service, available upon reservation, is partner to our Tourist Guides’ Association. (www.autonoleggiocostantini.it)****************************
http://www.assoguide.it/portale//?q=node/127
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Umbria tours 2010-Perugia tour
Perugia
The Regional capital and largest city of Umbria, Perugia is situated on a panoramic rise. The historic centre is connected to the car parks by a series of escalators. It is a surprising city thanks to its variety and quality of ancient and medieval testimonies.
HALF DAY TOUR:
• Rocca Paolina: a fortress built up at the command of Pope Paul III, it covers an attractive underground itinerary through a distinctive medieval district, where the noble mansions of Perugia’s lords once were.
• Fontana Maggiore: a true symbol of the city, the Fountain was created at the end of the 13th century to provide a water output to the medieval aqueduct. The Pisanos’ carvings of a calendar and other subjects are exquisite examples of medieval sculpture.
• Priori Palace: the main civic building of the city is a nice and imposing Palace, with its pink gothic style windows and ornate portal.
• Etruscan Arch: monumental city gate of the Etruscan time, extremely well preserved.
IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME:
• National Gallery of Umbria: very large and rich collection of paintings, frescoes and art works from the 13th century to the 17th century, including masterpieces by Perugino, Pinturicchio, Piero della Francesca, Luca Signorelli and Fra’ Angelico.
• Collegio del Cambio: The Guild of the money changers is one of the best preserved halls of the Renaissance in Italy, famous for its frescoes by Perugino.
• Oratory of St. Bernardino: rare example of Renaissance art, it has a beautiful façade decorated with bas-reliefs by Agostino di Duccio and rich in polychrome marbles. The interior shows a splendid early Christian 4th-century sarcophagus.
• Church of St.Angelo: a 5th-century A.D. Early-Christian circular building deriving from Roman models, it delivers a special glamour.
• Archaeological Museum: displayed within the former monastery of the church of St. Domenico, it has a remarkable collection of sarcophagus, urns and funerary outfits. Very interesting is the reconstruction of Etruscan tomb of the Cutu family.
• Church of St. Peter: this was the most important Benedictine Abbey in Umbria. The interior looks like a picture gallery. Close to the monastery a medieval botanical garden.
DURING YOUR FREE TIME:
Notice for the gluttons! Have a break at the famous chocolate Perugina shops! Events and special tours.
YOU CAN ARRANGE YOUR VISIT WITH:
Assisi, Gubbio, Todi
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wine museum in Torgiano -Perugia
Wine Museum in Torgiano, open from jenuary to december,
http://vino.lungarotti.biz tel 0039 075 9880200
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Trekking around trasimeno Lake
Trekking from Paciano, around trasimeno lake,beautiful landscape, and visit castel and medieval village.**********
www.guideinumbria.com
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Perugia etruscan city tour
visit medieval city,etruscan wall,rocca Paolina, etruscan well
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Pistoia
www.pinocchio.it
Pinocchio park in Collodi Pistoia-Toscana
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Siena
Trequanda-Valdichiana-Siena-Tuscany
The mediaeval village of Trequanda is in one of the most unspoilt areas of the province of Siena and was developed around a 13th century castle of which a cylindrical tower with battlements still remains today.
Trequanda stands on a hilltop, immersed in a natural environment of woodland and well-ordered vineyards and olive groves. The mild weather and typical Tuscan landscape led to its becoming a place of farm holiday and climatic tourism. Agriculture however remains, and the production –both qualitatively and quantitatively– of oil, wine, honey, cheese and charcuterie is highly important.
The historic centre is an airy and sunny piazza overlooked by the splendid Romanesque church dedicated to San Pietro and Sant’Andrea. Built in the 13th century, the façade in slabs of white and dark stone achieves a chromatic effect that is fairly rare in this area.
Inside there is a frescoed Ascension by Sodomia and a triptych by Giovanni di Paolo.
www.comune.trequanda.si.it
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-Torrita di Siena in Valdichiana in Siena province in Tuscany
This important centre of Valichiana is mentioned as early as 1307. The original nucleus stands on a hill and is enclosed within the remains of the mediaeval walls. The main buildings in the piazza represent the three powers: military (the Tower), civil (the town Hall) and clergy (the Church of Saints Flora and Lucilla), the latter housing paintings by Benvenuto di Giovanni and Bartolo di Fredi. The adjacent Teatro degli Oscuri (Theatre of the Obscure) was built in the 18th century. The economy is now successfully progressing towards small businesses and industry, side by side with tourism, the latter favoured not only by an unspoilt natural environment but also by interesting artistic and cultural attractions. A curiosity: Torrita was the birthplace of Ghino di Tacco, the celebrated gentleman-brigand with regard to whom the opinions of modern historians are still divided. www.comune.torrita.si.it
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Sinalunga in Valdichiana
A typical hill settlement of probable Etruscan origin, Sinalunga over the years was developed and extended towards Valdichiana. It has civil and religious buildings of considerable beauty, one of the oldest being the Romanesque parish church of San Pietro Mensulas, con all’interno due cippi sepolcrali di epoca romana. Da visitare anche la Chiesa di San Martino with works by Girolamo del Pacchia. Civil buildings of great interest include the mid 14th century Palazzo Pretoriowhose walls bear numerous coats-of-arms of Podestas from the period of Sienese rule and others of the Medici; the mid 18th century Ciro Theatre and the antiquariuman exhibition of Etruscan finds and a precious painting by Domeni Beccafumi. The surrounding environment, still unspoilt, attracts lovers of country tourism, and in fact there are many farm holiday concerns that go side by side with an economy that is still firmly anchored to a flourishing agriculture. www.comune.sinalunga.si.it
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In Toskana-Tuscany italian tour- Along the Old Via Francigena
In Toskana-Tuscany Italian tour-The Via Francigena came into being with the Longobards, who used it as a communication route between the extremities of their kingdom that extended from Tuscia to Padania.
Initially named Mons Longobardorum, the Via Francigena later took on the name of Strada di Monte Bardone.
It was not until the arrival of the Franks, who took over the Longobard kingdom, that the Via Francigena took on its current name, meaning literally “generated by the Franks”.
Towards the end of the Middle Ages the road became a major route for pilgrims on their way from Santiago de Compostela in Spain to Rome and then on to the Holy Land. Hospitals, abbeys and churches were built for pilgrims to stop along the way, as well as bridges to ease trade between Italy and northern Europe.
Those interested in exploring the Tuscan part of this ancient road should start south of Siena, along the Via Cassia and into the Val d’Arbia towards Isola d’Arbia.
Just outside town is the church of Sant’Ilario, which was a popular stopping point for pilgrims on their way to Rome. After about 10 kilometres there is Buonconvento, a small hamlet that was once a strategic outpost of the lands governed by the Republic of Siena.
Of the many lodgings that existed for pilgrims, some still survive today as agriturismi, or farmhouse residences. Towards Montalcino, the Abbey of Sant’Antimo is definitely worth a stop, before arriving at the Medieval town of San Quirico d’Orcia. The renowned thermal baths at Bagno Vignoni are not far from here.
After Bagno Vignoni the road continues towards the fortresses of Castiglion d’Orcia (Rocca Aldobrandesca) and Rocca d’Orcia, with its magnificent Rocca a Tentennano. Still further south stands Monte Amiata, with its chestnut forests.
The most important town on Monte Amiata is Abbadia San Salvatore, where there is also the Abbey of San Salvatore. The Via Francigena leaves the region of Tuscany here and continues towards Rome, often including sections of the Via Cassia.
Another itinerary along the Via Francigena runs through Val d’Elsa, an area of Tuscany that is particularly rich in castles and ancient churches. Starting at Siena, take the Via Cassia towards Monteriggioni into the Pian del Lago, where there is the imposing Castello della Chiocciola castle.
After reuniting with the Cassia, the Via Francigena continues towards Poggibonsi, where there is the Castle of Lecchi. A little further on stands the Castle of Strozzavolpe, with the Pieve di Luco and a beautiful Romanesque church at Talciona.
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SIENA, VILLAS, CASTLES AND GARDENS
VILLAS, CASTLES AND GARDENS Two days
Since ever the Sienese noble families loved to reside in wonderful country houses or imposing castles and beautiful villas which gardens and landscapes mingled together. The setting for hamlets and patrician residences were the very well cultivated lands and rolling hills from where the town was visible, even if in the distance. In the XVIth century, often on what remained of ancient fortalices, the romantic dream of creating magnificent villas rose. The idea of elegant parks, cypress tree paths, rose beds, little Renaissance chapels ,allegorical statues, lemon-houses or water- lilies was nourished by the poetic scenery. Formal Italian gardens gently tamed the harsh nature of the Sienese land. The present owners of these places, after a careful restoration, open their gates to show us these remarkable gardens.
The Horti Leonini of San Quirico d'Orcia
Since the year 1924 Villa la Foce is the Origo family house. This outstanding structure of the XVth century turned into a confortable home especially when the English architect Cecil Pinsent conceived a formal Italian garden to surround the house and expand the spectacular view over the valley of the Orcia and the Amiata mountain. The harmony betwwen garden and nature makes la Foce an ideal example of the Tuscany's cultural evolution of the XXth century.Through the wood , a path joins the garden and the family cemetery, considered one of Pinsent's best creations.
http://www.guidesiena.it/en/vinaccia/ville.html
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SIENA WALKS THROUGH ART, NATURE AND WINE
WALKS THROUGH ART, NATURE AND WINE
These are easier trekking itineraries but the same full of history and art. They will be conducted by environmental guides. These tours can be also added to other programmes of one or more days.
The Sienese Montagnola 4 hours A XIVth century great pictorial and architectural heritage made of hidden hermitages, abbeys, Romanesque churches at a stone’s throw from Siena .
Montalcino hd from an Etruscan castle to the abbey of St.Antimo with a tasting of Brunello wine
Val d’Orcia fd from the church of St.Quirico crossing the Crete up to Pienza with a snack or a simple country lunch along the way.
The Crete area hd to the discovery of the abbey of Monte Oliveto Major
San Gimignano hd walking across what remains of a mysterious Middle-Ages, hidden in the woods hamlet
The Chianti area fd going across Romanesque churches, famous wine-yards, farms once stone hamlets and a great wine to be tasted at the end of the excursion.
From the woods of the Amiata Mountain to the abbey of St.Salvatore fd
The Hermitage of San Leonardo al Lago
Built in 1119 immediately outside Siena, it became a Romanesque- Gothic church in the XIVth century when its style was completely changed. Its façade made of a round arch with a splay door is really remarkable. Inside, XIVth century frescoes dedicated to the Virgin Mary by Lippo Vanni, embellish its nave and two ails. The masterpiece of this church is to be found in its dining hall: a Quattrocento Crucifixion frescoed by Giovanni di Paolo.**
http://www.guidesiena.it/en/vinaccia/passeggiate.html
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FOOD AND WINE SIENA WALKS
FOOD AND WINE SIENA WALKS
If you, like us, do believe the only way to really know a place is to taste, smell, drink, touch it, we have the pleasure to welcome you with a savoury programme to discover the sweet and salty flavours of Siena . A Gastronomic walk with a nourishing and a selected tasting of cheese, of our local “cinta senese”cold cuts, d.o.p Tuscan oil, honey and many other sweet things coming from our tradition: all of them of a very high quality. This tour will end in the dungeons of the Enoteca Italiana where the super Tuscan docg wines wait for us with a surprising finale. More than being a nourishing original tasting made of stops, this is a real guided tour of a very well known city made of hidden shops and alluring perfumes coming from tiny little restaurants.
FEE AND DETAILS ON REQUEST
Food and wine suggestions
This is a wonderful trip among the wonderful flavours this land can offer. We always suggest to enrich all your visits with a tasting of traditional products including our famous Chianti, Brunello, Nobile, Vernaccia doc and docg wines to be found in the wine shops we may help you to choose. A stop in a typical village trattoria in a refined country relais, a light lunch in a wine farm or a snack in a romantic farm holiday centre will make everything more pleasant.************************************************
http://www.guidesiena.it/en/vinaccia/enogastronomia.html
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SIENA ROMANESQUE CHURCHES AND ABBEYES
ROMANESQUE CHURCHES AND ABBEYES
The roof of the XIIth century evocative abbey of St. Galgano is the clear sky of the Val di Merse. The close by chapel of Montesiepi is the perfect place to daydream about the famous sword stuck in the stone and the many legends created around it.
St. Antimo is a beautiful example of a church with a nave and two side aisles near Montalcino. During the Carolingian period it was an abbey. Its ambulatory and matroneum made with travertine and onyx capitals are extraordinary.
Monte Oliveto Major is the mother house of the Benedictine order. It was established in the XIVth century in the middle of the Crete area. Its cloister , painted by Sodoma and Signorelli is really magnificent.
The most powerful Tuscan abbey is St.Salvatore al Monte Amiata. From the IXth century it controls the valleys along the ancient via Francigena. On its façade two towers made of trachyte and a tall presbytery stand on one of the most famous crypts in Europe : a forest of 36 slender pillars dating back to the XIth century.
Abbadia a Isola
Its name derives from an ancient island emerged from a marshy territory. The imposing abbey of St.Salvatore dates back to the year 1001.It was a shelter for the many pilgrims walking along the close by via Francigena. The church is shaped like a basilica with a nave and two side aisles. Its staircase and baptismal font dating back to the XVth century are remarkable. Here the beautiful polyptich painted in 1478 by Sano di Pietro is to be found. Unfortunately, since the XIVth century this area suffered from a state of decay. The territory around the abbey became cultivated fields till the beginning of the XXth century.***************************************************
http://www.guidesiena.it/en/vinaccia/abbazie_chiese.html
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THE SIENESE MUSEUMS
THE SIENESE MUSEUMS
The province of Siena boasts an extraordinary and well organised museum net called : Fondazione Musei Senesi.
Truffles, Olive oil, Quarries are only some of the subjects you can find in the 31 museums that cover the territory. They are to be found in historical, old structures with a very modern design to make them easy to be understood and pleasant to be visited. This is an extraordinary itinerary across the Sienese cultural identity. All the archaeological, artistic, historical, anthropological patrimony is “located in the same place of origin”. Guided tours of these museums are organised according to territory or thematic criteria : i.e. historical-artistic, ethnographic, scientific or archaeological. Among our many proposals, please take note of the one that includes the historical-artistic tour of Montalcino, Pienza, Montepulciano museums.www.museisenesi.org
THE TRUFFLE MUSEUM
In the heart of the Sienese Crete, at San Giovanni D’Asso , the first Italian museum dedicated to truffles has been recently open. The dungeons of the fourteenth- century castle of San Giovanni are the theatre of a 250 square metres itinerary trough witchcraft, science, eroticism, but also sensory experiences about this bulb the museum offers. This is like a continuous play through visual, tactile, taste and olfactory itineraries helping the visitors to know the secrets of this wonderful gift of Mother Earth better.**************************************
http://www.guidesiena.it/en/arancio/musei_territorio.html
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THE AMIATA, THE SACRED MOUNTAIN
THE AMIATA, THE SACRED MOUNTAIN
From its sacred woods dating back to the Etruscans, its Benedictine abbey of San Salvatore founded by the Carolingians, its little Middle-Ages hermitages where St.Bernardino served his novitiate, to the followers of David Lazzaretti in the 19th century, to the monks of Siloe or the Buddhists of the Rising Light : for everybody THE AMIATA IS THE SACRED MOUNTAIN.
The town of Abbadia San Salvatore rose around the famous Abbey that, since the IXth century controls the via Francigena valley. This is a strangely shaped structure, rare in Italy, made by two towers on the façade and by a high presbytery. A forest of thirty-six slender pillars and sculptured capitals dating back to the XIth century, make the Abbey crypt famous all over Europe.
Piancastagnaio with its picturesque Middle-Ages lanes and the remarkable structure of its stronghold Rocca Aldobrandesca, dominates the Sienese side of the mountain. Santa Fiora is one of the most beautiful villages made of stone of the Grosseto side. Some famous terracotta by Della Robbia family are to be seen in its main church.
We only understand the volcanic origin of this mountain by walking among its beech woods where large blocks of trachyte cover its meadows .Once famous for its quarries, nowadays this land is ideal for beautiful walks and gastronomic itineraries.
Mr. Daniel Spoerri’s garden
At the beginning of the nineties the Swiss artist Daniel Spoerri, spoke- man of the Nouveau Réalisme, started to place his sculptures in a park near Seggiano at the foot of Mount Amiata. In 1997 he opened it to the public and now the garden is visible from Easter time to October. At the moment at “Mr. Daniel Spoerri’s garden” 87 statues by 42 important world wide artists are to be seen. They are scattered in sixteen hectares giving birth to a fascinating tour between art and nature.www.danielspoerri.org ******************************
www.guidesiena.it/en/arancio/amiata_montagna_sacra.html
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CHIANTI-TUSCANY-ITALY
CHIANTI
Since the beginning of the Middle-Ages the people living in the Chianti area dedicated themselves to wine making. This border land followed the political clashes between Siena and Florence. In this period of time many fortified castles rose to be later changed into noble country houses and now into wine farms.
For what it concerns this area, we will choose with you an itinerary- according to your needs- among its many very well preserved villages, castles, Romanesque country churches or hamlets .
A visit to the beautiful wine-yards to taste the local wines is also included. All this makes the Chianti area one of the most well known and loved places all over the world.
Rediscovered villages
Vertine is one of the most extraordinary and suggestive Middle-Ages fortified hamlet. Some fragments of the walls with a semi-circular tower are still to be seen as well as a remarkable and very tall building at the southern part of this little village.
San Gusmè is one of the most typical places in the territory of the Berardenga. Maybe the only intact area of the Chianti. Its ancient structure with crested arches or its tiny, sloped little streets witness the Carolingian age of its castle ********************************************
http://www.guidesiena.it/en/arancio/chianti_meridionale.html
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THE SIENESE CRETE
THE SIENESE CRETE
This is an interesting journey through one of the most celebrated landscapes in the province. The Crete are a sea of greyish waves not softened by woods or trees to be found just outside Siena when driving towards the south. Here, along the via Cassia, overlapping the ancient via Francigena, we find the XIVth century beautiful walls of Buonconvento known for an interesting Sacred Art museum and a museum dedicated to sharecropping . From here we climb to the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Major dramatically set at the edge of a steep slope of clay. This is one of the most well known and visited monuments in Tuscany thanks to its artistic heritage. The frescoes in the chiostro grande , the inlaid choir or the library are something not to be missed. San Giovanni d’Asso is the capital of truffles. The village castle is now the first museum in Italy dedicated to these noble bulbs. Asciano is the most important town in the Crete area with its interesting Romanesque church and Archaeological and Art museum. Going back to Siena we drive through the via delle Crete to take with us the last but most intriguing and magic view upon such an extraordinary territory: all but neglected.
The crete
The Crete district is almost unique because of its geomorphic constitution. It is made of clayish lands and remains of ancient marine basins giving birth to two interesting formations:
The calanchi that are like a system of little crested canyons reproducing a miniature of very indented hydrographical grids.
The biancane are instead dome-shaped relieves, only some metres high, to be found in more or less extended groups **
http://www.guidesiena.it/en/arancio/crete_senesi.html
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SAN GIMIGNANO AND VAL D'ELSA
SAN GIMIGNANO AND VAL D'ELSA
Thanks to a wonderful geographic position, the Val d’Elsa, since the XIth century acquired an certain importance in the art of manufacturing. The river flowing through Colle made it a capital in the wool, glass and paper industry . Today it is at its most for the crystal producing in Europe. After a visit to its medieval village, once a castle, go and visit the crystal museum or see the making of it in one of the many factories of the town.
San Gimignano is worldwide famous for its special urban structure dating back to the XIII-XIV th centuries. Definitely the best preserved in Europe. Founded at the junction between the via Francigena and ancient commercial routes, San Gimignano boasted a florid trade of saffron and wine with Italian and European markets. Nowadays fourteen towers survive its sudden and short economic development as well as its two town halls or its Collegiata extraordinarily rich in frescoes. A wine taste of its celebrated vernaccia is not to be missed.
The consortium of Colle di val d’elsa Crystal associates many of the factories working in this field. They represent the 95% of all the Italian crystal production and the 14% of the world one. The difference between crystal and glass is due to the presence of led oxide in the mixture. www.cristallo.org *****************************************
www.guidesiena.it/en/arancio/sangimignano_valdelsa.html
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MONTALCINO AND VAL D'ORCIA
MONTALCINO AND VAL D'ORCIA
The river Orcia valley is one of the most photographed in Tuscany. Its rolling hills changing their colours with the changing of the seasons, its very old hamlets deepened in the untouched environment and its high quality gastronomy make the difference. This is the most appreciated itinerary every year: by bus, car, bicycle, or on foot.
From Montalcino with its celebrated wine –yards, to the Abbazia di Sant’Antimo where the monks’ chants are still to be heard down to the old country road Cassia . One can go from San Quirico with its Collegiata visited by pilgrims since one thousand years to the Middle-Age Spas of Bagno Vignoni where even St. Catherine went. Then to Pienza, the little ideal town of Pope Pious II to end in Montepulciano where its cellars and Renaissance palaces are all to be found around a wonderful square. Here, in summer , music and words surround the crowds following the Bravio delle Botti.
Landscapes and cinema
Bagno Vignoni and Pienza were the locations of films like “Romeo and Juliet “ by Franco Zeffirelli, “Al lupo al lupo” by Carlo Verdone and “ Nostalghia” by Andrej Tarkovsky as well as “ Stealing Beauty “ by Bernardo Bertolucci. Juliette Binoche took care of “the English Patient” in the monastery of Sant’Anna in Camprena. Many scenes of the “Gladiator” by Ridley Scott with Russell Crowe had the Val d’Orcia as a setting too.*********************************
http://www.guidesiena.it/en/arancio/montalcino_valdorcia.html
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SIENA AND ITS MUSEUMS
SIENA AND ITS MUSEUMS
This town jealously keeps its real treasures in its beautiful palaces. To discover them we have to follow a cultural itinerary through its most representative museums where the Sienese art, from the 14th to the 18th centuries ,is preserved .
Around the building of the Cathedral- full day
This walk includes the Cathedral with the Piccolomini Library, the Crypt with its 13th century frescoes, the very beautiful Baptistery, dating back to the 15th century , where, Iacopo della Quercia, Donatello and Ghiberti worked together. At the Museo dell’ Opera the precious glass window by Duccio with his superb Maestà painted in 1311 are to be found.
From the ancient heart of Siena to its Commune pride- full day
This itinerary includes the visit to the oldest western hospital that in the past was a shelter for thousands of pilgrims. Nowadays its evocative vaults host the local Archaeological Museum. The most famous frescoes of the European Middle-Ages and the civic virtues of the 14th century are to be seen at the Museo Civico .
This walk comprises the treasures of the Pinacoteca Nazionale as well as Palazzo delle Papesse with its Contemporary Art museum.
The Crypt
Since ever believed to have been the atrium of the east access to the Cathedral, the discovery of this frescoed space under the floor of the church itself is recent and sensational. In 1317 this area was incorporated into the apse of the new Baptistery to lose trace of it for seven hundred years .Its extraordinary and rare cycle of late 13th century frescoes, based on the Old and New Testament , is among the most important and best preserved in Europe.
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Siena Terme Tuscany
RELAX, SPAS & CO.
Our land is very rich in water. What a good idea then to be spoilt in one of our modern and well equipped Spas. All of them have wonderful wellness programmes to be combined with relax or care, or with a visit to the Museum of water in Chianciano.
This is a very interesting museum recently enriched by objects discovered in half a-score of intact Etruscan tombs. The wellness programme can be also combined with a walk to one of the gorgeous Val d’Orcia Middle-Ages or Renaissance villages
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Bici tour -Poggibonsi-Siena-Tuscany
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EVENING WALK TO DISCOVER THE MYSTERIES OF SIENA
EVENING WALK TO DISCOVER THE MYSTERIES OF SIENA A fascinating evening walk through the alleys of Siena to discover the ancient legends , ghost stories , strange characters who once populated the streets , palaces and tunnels underneath the fountains of the city . Signs ,hidden inscriptions ,clues of the past which the night makes even more mysterious Friday 17th of July 9.00pm -11 pm last quarter of the moon Thursday 6th of August 9.00pm -11 pm full moon Tickets: Euro 20.00 per pax to be purchased from your Tour Guide, , Tourist Information Offices, or your Hotel. Family ticket : 2 adults + children euro 35.00 � ( small present for the children ) Language: Italian / English Tours in other languages can also be booked from a min. of 6 pax small groups only limited to 15 pax . We Suggest you to book all the tours within 5.00 pm of the day of the tour itself at 0577 43273 tour guaranteed - meeting point at : Fonte Gaia in Piazza del Campo Centro Guide Turistiche Siena e Provincia info : 0577 43273 www.guidesiena.it
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Palio Siena tour 2009
GUIDED TOUR FOR INDIVIDUALS summer 2009
SPECIAL TOUR PALIO OF SIENA
The Palio race unveiled just for you in an exclusive tour through its history, places and secrets .Only with an expert Sienese guide you will discover the real spirit and essence of this race .An unforgettable experience in ancient traditions to discover what moves the feelings of the Sienese to it.
2nd of July
The secrets of the Palio to the Madonna di Provenzano
30rd of July 5.00 pm – 7.00 pm
The places of the Palio
The church of Santa Maria di Provenzano , the districts , the preparation
1st of July 8.30 pm – 10.30 pm
The evening before
The traditional propitiatory dinners along the streets , the rites , the ambiance
2nd of July 2.30 pm – 4.30 pm
The race
The blessing of the horses, the historical parade , the waiting for the Palio
16th of August
The secrets of the Palio dedicated to our Lady of the Assumption
14th of August 5 pm -7.30 pm
The places of the Palio
The Votive Procession , the districts , the preparation
15th of August 8.30 pm – 10.30 pm
The evening before
The traditional propitiatory dinners along the streets , the rites , the ambiance
16th of August 2.00 pm – 4.00 pm
The race
The blessing of the horses, the historical parade , the waiting for the Palio
. Tickets: Euro 20.00 , per pax. To be purchased from your Tour Guide, Tourist information offices, or your Hotel. Children under 12 years of age are free of charge
Language: 1 tour in Italian + 2 tour in English guaranteed
Tours in other languages can also be booked from a min. of 6 pax
Small groups only. On the Palio race day max 10 pax per guide.
We Suggest you to book all the tours within 12.00 am of the day of the tour itself at 0577 43273
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San Gimignano walk tour
San Gimignano
Guided Tour + Town Hall, Art Gallery and Great Tower
Every Saturday and Sunday at 11.00 AM
This tour is made to give the visitors the opportunity of seeing this Middle Ages Tuscan gem city through its history, art and local flavours. The visitors cross its main streets as well as the tiny, little alleyways normally hidden to crowds to end the visit with the Town Hall and its Art Gallery. The climbing of the Great Tower is a breathtaking view over the surrounding countryside.
The tour starts from the Tourist Board Office at Piazza Duomo
Info www.guidesiena.it or please call (+39 ) 0577 43273
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Secret Siena walks
Secret Siena walks
Every Sunday at 11.00 0'clock
Guided Tour + Admission fee to the Dungeons of the Old Hospital Santa Maria della Scala
This tour is made to discover the most secret places in Siena following the traces left here by pilgrims, wayfarers, artists, saints one thousand years. This is the only way to see hidden fountains, ancient castles and towers or unknown churches still rich in forgotten masterpieces. A fascinating itinerary that ends with the millenary Old Hospital Santa Maria della Scala where beautiful frescoes and evocative dungeons are to be found.
Every Tour starts from the Tourist Board Office at Piazza del Campo
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Siena guide tour
Classical Siena
from Monday to Saturday every day at 11.00 o'clock
Guided Tour + Cathedral Admission Fee
Ideal for newcomers to Siena, this tour touches all the historical and cultural landmarks of the town. From the world wide famous Piazza del Campo where the Palio horse race takes place, to the historical building of the Monte dei Paschi bank, to the Tolomei palace or the Chigi Saracini one- now a Music Academy. Not to mention the church of San Domenico or the Cathedral where Michelangelo, Bernini, Donatello and Giovanni Pisano left the masterpieces.
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Siena Tour city by bus
Discover the city from the comfort of our air-conditioned minibus. We’ll take you on a visit to squares, buildings, beautiful churches and historical monuments, telling you about the history, folklore and traditions of Siena. We’ll help you to understand the city by giving you precious information on all the museums and their opening times.
During the tour you’ll be told about all the main events held in the city and how to get to them. With the special disposable earphones you can listen to a guide in English, Italian, French, German or Spanish. At the start of the tour you’ll get a very useful map, full of information. You can keep the map. The tour lasts one hour. The green minibus with the words City By Bus is easily identifiable.
The minibus seats are 8. For bookings, apply to your hotel or to the Siena Hotels Promotion booking office which is right opposite Piazza San Domenico. Or phone our call centre at 0577 596181. Enjoy yourselves
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Sovicille-Siena-Museo del Bosco
MUSEO ETNOGRAFICO DEL BOSCO
Address: Orgia - Sovicille
Tel.:0577 582323 / 0577 582336 /0577 349027 Fax:
WWW: www.museisenesi.org E-mail: museo@comune.sovicille.si.it
An exhibition of objects, implements and documentation regarding life and work in the woods and the sharecropping working relationship. An educational multimedia laboratory is linked to the Museum.
Sistema dei Musei Senesi
Prices (€)
entry € 2.00
reduced rate for children € 1.00 euro
Time tables fri-sat 9.30-12.30
open daily on request.***********************************
www.terresiena.it
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Bici Tour Siena
Riding your bike in the land of Siena means discovering the true characteristics of this land and gives you the opportunity to share the genuine nature of this territory, a wine tasting, a visit to a thermal spring, a chat with a shepard who might want to show you how pecorino is made……
The “Terre di Siena” constitute one big multitude, a route that travels across diverse zones, each one with its own, strong identity:Chianti, Crete, Val di Merse and Montagnola, Val d’Elsa, Val di Chiana, Amiata
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Siena-Museo storia naturale
Part of the Accademia dei Fisiocritici, it houses important collections in the field of natural sciences. The Academy library is of particular interest.
Sistema dei Musei Senesi
Prices (€)
Admission free
Time tables 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 3.00 p.m. - 6.00 p.m.
Closed on Thursday afternoon, Saturday, Sunday and public Holidays
Guided tours for groups (booking necessary).*********
www.accademiafisiocritici.it
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Siena-Art museum for children
The children’s Museum is almost unique in Italy for its relationship between art and childhood. It was in fact conceived as a place for learning techniques and use of materials and for direct contact with people from the art world.
Prices (€)
Admission free
Time tables without operator:
Mo.-Fr.: 10.00am - 2:00pm
groups and school:
Mo.-Fr. on request
Open for family every first Saturday in the month from 3.00 to 6.00pm,**********************************************
www.comune.siena.it/bambimus
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Siena -Museo Botanico
Splendid green area in the heart of the city containing numerous species of plants from all over the world.
Prices (€)
Admission free
Time tables From Monday to Friday: 8.00 a.m. - 12.30. p.m. and 2.30 p.m. - 5.30 p.m.
Saturday: 8.00 a.m. - 12.00 noon
Closed on Sunday and public Holidays
Guided tours for students and groups on request.
www.unisi.it/ricerca/dip/dba/Botanica/orto_botanico.htm
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Siena -Museo Santa Maria della Scala
Santa Maria della Scala, one of Europe’s oldest hospitals, terminated its health-service functions some years ago and became (and in part still is) the object of an important renovation operation for museum and cultural purposes. This large complex, located in the heart of Siena, in front of the Cathedral, conserves extraordinarily intact testimonials of thousands of years of history, revealing a path that runs uninterruptedly from the Etruscan and Roman age, through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, to us.
It is a unique synthesis, blending images of Etruscan civilization, tired pilgrims, wanderers and the sick, noble gentlemen, Byzantine emperors, abandoned children and praying monks. And in the tracks of so many suggestions we find monumental rooms, narrow corridors, brightly coloured frescoes with stories of lives lived, dark crypts, labyrinthine tunnels dug into tufaceous rock and immense spaces with vaulted brick ceilings.
Santa Maria della Scala thus does not lend itself to a univocal reading, and even though great artists have left precious and rare testimonies within it, the vast edifice (350,000,000 cubic metres) is above all a splendid synthesis of the city and its history. And this is precisely its particularity: it is a container in which architecture, works of art and history tell of a life that has continued on without interruption for a thousand years.
www.santamariadellascala.com
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Poggibonsi Siena Toscana
Fortezza medicea. Open all year, free entry
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THE RENAISSANCE PALACES
THE RENAISSANCE PALACES
The tour provides a visit to the The Sala delle Feste (The Party Room) - frescos from 1702 by Andrea Pozzo (1642-1709) - in Palazzo Contucci, work of Antonio da Sangallo the Elder (1455-1534), still the home of the Contuccis, one of the oldest families of Montepulciano who commenced the cultivation of vines in the Renaissance. At the end of the tour there will be a tasting of their wines in the cellar of the Palace. The visit continues in the Palazzo Ricci, work of the architect Baldassarre Peruzzi. The restoration and its use was entrusted to the European Academy of Music and Art. It organises summer master classes for young musicians from all over the world with famous international teachers, concerts, exhibitions and other cultural events. On some dates it will be possible to be present at lessons or concerts. The lower floors of the Ricci Palace can be accessed where there is the majestic Cantina Redi, the work of Sangallo the Elder.
Duration: about 2.5 hours
Time of departure: only the 1st and 3rd Thursday afternoon of each month at 3.30p.m.
Place of departure: Piazza Grande, 7
Price per person: from 5 to 9 persons euro 33.00
from 10 to 20 persons euro 23.00
from 20 to 40 persons euro 13.00
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THE SECRET TREASURES OF MONTEPULCIANO
THE SECRET TREASURES OF MONTEPULCIANO - Monte Pio - San Girolamo Conservatory A fascinating itinerary through the hidden history and art of Montepulciano where an antique aura is still preserved. Did you know that in Montepulciano a pawnshop was founded called Monte Pio, this predated today's Monte dei Paschi bank, and that in the Conservatory of S. Girolamo there exists a pharmacy from the 1500's? An expert will guide you through these unknown places. The tour will finish with a wine tasting in a historical cellar of Montepulciano. Duration: about 2,5 hours Time of departure: 10:00 am - or 3.00 pm Price per person: min. 4 participants euro 23.00 N.B. The fee for an interpreter non included - price on request.
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Tour film set
MONTEPULCIANO SETTINGS
MONTEPULCIANO SETTINGS A Walk to discover the cinema settings of the historical centre, where there is the Poliziano Theatre, the Redi Cellar, the San Francesco terrace and the Temple of San Biagio. Besides the splendid Piazza Grande. At the end of the historical visit a film will be shown that has been set in Montepulciano - for example "Forbidden Christ", "The Pleasant Nights", "Nostalghia", "The Arch-devil", "In the name of the Papal King", "A Walk in Time", "The English Patient", " Mid-summer Night's Dream", "Under the Tuscan Sun", "Strange History of a Sonour Band". Duration: 3 hours + time of film screening Time of departure: 3.30pm Place of departure: Piazza Grande Price per person: min 4 persons euro 25.00
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Cristal Museum in Colle Val d' Elsa
Info www.terresienabambini.it
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Etruscan museum in Chiusi-Siena
Etruscan Museum and the etruscan city underground,
info www.terresienabambini.it
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Landscape Museum
Landscape museum in castelnuovo berardenga -Siena, visit the tower for see beautiful landscape Chianti and crete Senesi, www.terresienabambini.it
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www.terresiena.it
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Montepulciano 25 km from Spiga d'Oro
Chosen for New moon movie with actors Robert Pattinson e Kristen Stewart.
Medieval city,wine tasting,museum,tower and beautiful landscape
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Crete senesi 25 km from spiga d'oro
a beautiful landscape from Asciano to Siena, near you can visit abbazia Monte oliveto maggiore
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Chianti 30 km from spiga d'oro
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Siena 45 km from spiga d'oro
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Pienza
unesco village, beautiful landscape in val d' orcia.
typical prodoct :pecorino di pienza
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Terni
Emilio Greco Museum
Emilio Greco Museum
The Emilio Greco Museum houses an important collection of 32 bronze sculptures and 60 graphic art works that include lithographs, etchings and drawings, all donated to the city by the artist who designed the bronze doors of the Duomo.
The museum has access for the disabled, a well-equipped multi-media post, an art bookshop and a section that sells design objects.
OPENING HOURS
January – February – October - November
Friday – Saturday – Sunday: 10.30am-4.30pm
March
Friday – Saturday – Sunday: 10.30am-5pm
April – May – June– July
Tuesday to Sunday: 10.30am-ipm, 3.30-5pm
August
Tuesday to Sunday: 11am-5pm
September
Tuesday to Sunday: 10.30am-1pm, 2.30-5pm
INFORMATION
Museo Emilio Greco
Piazza Duomo – 05018 Orvieto (Terni)
Tel. +39 0763344605
Infoline
Tel. 199194114
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Orvieto - Pozzo della cava
At the heart of the Medieval quarter of Orvieto there is a fascinating underground labyrinth of passages, with caves and archaeological finds, all brought to light relatively recently after centuries of neglect. The most important structure in this network is certainly the Pozzo della Cava, a vast well, 36 metres deep, hewn out of the tufa rock by order of Pope Clement VII in 1527 to ensure that Orvieto had a constant supply of water in the event of a siege. The Pozzo di San Patrizio, on the opposite side of the city, was dug some years later for the same reason.
The Pozzo della Cava was dug between 1528 and 1530 by enlarging a previously existing Etruscan well whose traces are still visible today. In 1646 the well was closed up during the Castro war. With the exception of some mentions in documents that told of bodies being thrown down the well, nothing more was ever heard about it until its rediscovery in 1984. In 1996 the well was emptied of all the debris that had accumulated inside over the centuries and the water supply was once more unblocked.
la Sala dei Butti
In 1999 the Orvieto-born researcher Lucio Riccetti found a signed letter by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger proving that the well commissioned by Pope Clement VII was in fact the Pozzo della Cava and not the Pozzo di San Patrizio, as had been believed until then. The tufa rock extracted during the digging of the Pozzo della Cava was partly used to build Palazzo Pucci, which Sangallo was supervising at the time.
In the caves next to the well, included in the itinerary, there are the remains of two ceramic kilns. One is Medieval and includes rooms where the potters worked as well as a number of discarded pots and some interesting tools. The other is a classic Renaissance ‘muffola’ shaped kiln that was used in the 16th century for the so-called ‘third fire’, to obtain the precious lustre of Renaissance ceramic, famous for its golden and ruby-red iridescence.
la Cantina del Pozzo della Cava
The two kilns were discovered in 1985 and shed a new light on the production of majolica in Orvieto during the 15th and 16th century. This period had in fact previously been considered the dark ages of majolica production in the city. Some remains of Etruscan tombs have also been unearthed. In one of these the place where the body was laid to rest is clearly visible. It was adapted during the Middle Ages to house a fulling machine to work and soften wool.
Another extremely interesting Etruscan element of the excavations is the cistern, dug out of the rock to house rainwater channelled down from the rooftops above. Its particular form of whitewash is known as cocciopesto and is typical of the last stages of the Etruscan occupation of the city. This cistern also underwent modifications during the Middle Ages when it was incorporated into a passageway leading to a second underground floor used as a cellar to produce and store the much-appreciated Orvieto wine. The two flat surfaces that flank the steps downwards were used to roll the barrels down to the rooms below.
Work is still continuing to empty, clean and render safe a series of other caves that will certainly make the visit even richer and more complete. These are scheduled to open in 2003, along with a new entrance from Via della Cava – as it once was during the Renaissance. Improvements are also planned for the museum section of the itinerary.
Pozzo della Cava
Via della Cava 28 Orvieto
Tel 0763.342.373 Fax 0763.341.029
Single ticket: € 1.50 - Free for children under 10
Open non-stop from 9am to 8pm
Closed Mondays
e-mail: info@pozzodellacava.it
sito internet: www.pozzodellacava.it
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Orvieto- Il Duomo
The façade of the Duomo of Orvieto is structured like a tryptich, and is richly decorated in a dazzling profusion of polychrome marble, sculptures and mosaic. The median entrance and the central rose window are 14th century, designed by Andrea Orgagna.
The three-nave interior is partly Romanesque in style, as in the transept that cuts across the central block of the building forming a cross shape. The presbyterium, a part of the church that was reserved only for the clergy, is Gothic.
Compared with other cathedrals in Europe, the Duomo of Orvieto is less formally linear and uses a greater variety of materials.
The Duomo is also known for the Last Judgement cycle of frescoes by Luca Signorelli. The cycle had in fact been started by Beato Angelico, who was aided by Benozzo Gozzoli.
Contrary to the trend in Europe at the time, Gothic architects in Italy designed large, flat surfaces on the interior walls of their cathedrals, so that painters could cover them in frescoes. The independent free city states vied with each other and with the powerful abbeys in securing the work of the finest painters of the time.
Artists were able to elaborate a personal concept of painting that resulted in a new way of depicting interiors. Landscape came to be painted as something living. Greater attention was given to observing the individual and new peaks of elegance were attained in both form and use of colour.
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Orvieto - Umbria
The imposing outline of the Duomo, the emblem of Orvieto throughout the world, stands out above the city skyline like a beacon signalling to ships in the night.
Fully aware of its unique beauty and keen to preserve the fragile rocky plateau on which it stands, the city of Orvieto has implemented a ban on visitor car access into the city. Visitors should therefore leave their car in the valley below and take the funicular from the rail station up into the heart of the old city, past the ancient Albornoz fortress. Alternatively, at Campo della Fiera there is a large covered parking and a system of escalators and lifts that also take visitors up to the old Medieval quarter. A number of efficient minibus connections also guarantee a fast access up to town.
For a full view of the breathtaking cityscape of Orvieto it is well worth climbing to the top of the 13th century Torre del Moro, the most central and highest point in the city, which commands a 360° view over the rooftops and the lush surrounding countryside.
The heart of the city is Piazza del Duomo, a supremely elegant space onto which face palazzi and the imposing Duomo. Its dazzling façade, shining with polychrome marble and mosaics, is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in central Italy.
The interior contains masterpieces by Luca Signorelli, who painted the Anti Christ Episodes, The End of the World, The Resurrection of the Flesh, The Elect and the Reprobates and a spectacular Last Judgement in the chapel of San Brizio. Beato Angelico painted the angels in the ceiling
Begun in 1290, the buiding of the cathedral continued for some centuries. The Torretta at the corner of Via del Duomo for centuries rang the time for the workers toiling at the construction of this massive building.
But as well as its Medieval and Renaissance monuments, Orvieto also has important Etruscan remains, such as the two burial grounds situated beneath the city: the Necropoli del Crocifisso del Tufo – Loc. San Martino – Orvieto Scalo, and the underground level of the city.
Enlarged during the Middle Ages and put to a variety of uses ranging from cisterns to pigeon breeding, the labyrinth of underground passages that run beneath the city of Orvieto grew to such proportions that it would be more appropriate to refer to it as a second city that has been literally hewn out of the rock foundations of the buildings above. This hidden city is open to the public, which is allowed to follow a precise itinerary organised by Orvieto Underground. The Pozzo di San Patrizio well, designed by Antonio da Sangallo for Pope Clement VII in the 16th century is also open to the public.
Divided between the Museo Claudio Faina, the Museo Archeologico and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, the Collezione Civica is also of great interest.
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