Archive for 'Cortona'

Cortona is a charming medieval hilltown in Tuscany which is an important artistic and cultural centre. Within the walls of the town, it can sometimes seem as though time has stopped long ago and everywhere you turn, you will see historic architectural gems. However, some of the real highlights of the town and its surrounding area are its churches. The Church of Santa Maria Nuova, in particular, as a centralised square-plan Renaissance church, is a prime example of an important principle of Renaissance construction. Santa Maria Nuova was built by Giorgio Vasari in 1554 and is an example of one of that great architect’s later works. If you’re an architecture lover and have found a luxury villa in Cortona, be sure to stop by and check it out.

Girifalco Fortress in Cortona was built by Gabrio Serbelloni, nephew of Pope IV and Francesco Laparelli. Cortona was an important military town from the establishment of the government of Cosimo I Medici until the subjection of Siena in 1555 and the fort was built in the 16th century to bolster the military strength of the city though the site has much older origins as a defensive structure. However, though the building is fascinating historically and as an example of military architecture, its greatest selling point is probably the view that it offers over Cortona and the entire Valdichiana area from the top of the tower. If you're visiting Cortona, this is the best way to introduce yourself to the town.

Each summer, the picturesque city of Cortona in Tuscany has a calender of events re-enacting medieval traditions through May and June. At the centre of these is the Giostra dell'Archidado, or the Archidado Joust, which takes place on the second Sunday of June. Existing since the Middle Ages and created officially in 1397, it commemorates the wedding of Francesco Casali, Lord of Cortona, to Antonia Salimbeni, a noblewoman from Siena. During the festival, the city streets are decorated with banners and flags and are given a medieval flare. The music of trumpets and drums resounds and stalls selling food, drink and crafts are set up. Medieval markets are also present on certain days.

Spend a magical vacation in Tuscany visiting the welcoming tourist town of Cortona in the Val di Chiana. This beautiful town, encased by ancient walls, overlooks the scenic Lake Trasimeno and offers lots for tourists to see and do.

Stay in a lavish villa with a swimming pool in the Cortona area and enjoy all the cultural and natural treasures of the countryside here.

Cortona was placed firmly on the map when a book written by an American woman living here became a worldwide success.

Florence, the ‘Cradle of the Renaissance’, is a wonderfully artistic and cultural city to visit on your holiday to Tuscany.

If you’re staying at a holiday rental in Florence for a few days and have seen a lot of the city’s attractions then why not rent a car and explore the many welcoming towns surrounding it?

Only ten kilometres outside of Florence is the popular tourist town of Fiesole. In fact you can admire a spectacular view of the city from here.

Tourists could explore the attractions in this welcoming hub before moving onto the next destination. Cortona lies further afield at ninety minutes’ drive away but it could still easily be visited on a day trip from Florence.