Archive for 'Localities'

  

Wednesday, November 26, 2014
View of Certosa of Calci
You may have read our previous article about the great work of a non-profit Italian organization called the FAI (Fondo per l'Ambiente Italiano). They launched an innovative project called ‘Luoghi del Cuore’ which is aimed at raising awareness of national cultural and historical attractions which have fallen into disrepair and require funding to restore them to their former glory.

This year the votes are pouring in and so far in 2014, a beautiful Tuscan landmark called the ‘Certosa of Calci’ is leading the way! Situated only ten kilometres from Pisa is an ancient monastery of the Certosine Order in Graziosa Valley. Founded in 1366 it began as a humble residence of monks and continued as one for several centuries.

Stay in a charming villa rental in Pisa where you can easily visit the Certosa of Calci among many other intriguing attractions in the province.     Read More
Posted in: Localities, Museums & Galleries, Pisa, Tourist Attractions

  

Wednesday, November 26, 2014
view of florence's duomo and baptistery
When touring around Florence to admire its cultural treasures, you will no doubt come upon the majestic complex of Santa Maria del Fiore! This enchanting place is home to the gigantic cathedral of Florence with its infamous dome, the opera museum, the baptistery, Giotto’s bell tower and the underground crypt of Santa Reparata. The great news is that tourists can avail of all these attractions by only needing to buy one convenient ticket!

Book a vacation rental in Florence where you can easily travel in to see this site as well as many other enchanting attractions of the city.     Read More
Posted in: Florence, Localities, Museums & Galleries, Tourist Attractions

  

Tuesday, November 25, 2014
santa reparata original mosaic floor
Head downstairs within the cathedral of Florence to come upon a special crypt which marks the site where an ancient cathedral once stood!

It’s estimated that the Duomo of Santa Reparata was constructed during the 6th century and was an early testament of Christianity taking a firm rooting all across Italy.

Rent a vacation rental in Florence and enjoy a few days of touring around this majestic city full of artistic treasures!     Read More
Posted in: Churches & Religious Buildings, Florence, Localities, Museums & Galleries, Tourist Attractions

  

Friday, November 7, 2014
The Volto Santo of Lucca
The Volto Santo or ‘Holy Face’ of Lucca is a famous wooden crucifix that is housed in the cathedral of San Martino in Lucca city. The Volto Santo is housed in a beautifully built Carrara marble chapel which was designed by Matthew Civitali.

Stay in a pretty vacation rental in Lucca and explore all that this spectacular city and its surrounding area has to offer in terms of culture and beauty.

There’s an interesting legend tied to the beautiful craftsmanship of this crucifix, specifically the carved face of Jesus as the name suggests, ‘Volto Santo’.

It’s said that the crucifix was carved by a man called Nicodemus who was mentioned in the Gospel of Joseph after Christ ascended from the dead.     Read More
Posted in: Churches & Religious Buildings, Legends, Localities, Lucca, Tourist Attractions

  

Friday, November 7, 2014
View of Apuan Alps
Lose yourself in a magical mountain trekking expedition through the striking mountains of Tuscany! The trails that weave through the Apuan Alps and the Apennine Mountains among other mountainous sites in the region are incredibly well signposted and can be explored along with an expert guide if you wish.

Climbing the majestic mountains of Tuscany and reaching the summit of Mount Amiata for example is a perfect challenge to set yourself. Visit quaint little Tuscan towns and villages that are nestled high up in the mountains and go mountain biking through some of the many mountainous nature reserves throughout the region.     Read More
Posted in: Activities, Hiking, Localities, Mountains