Siena's palazzo pubblico
Posted in: Localities Museums & Galleries Must See Attractions Siena Tourist Attractions
Situated in the famous Piazza del Campo in Siena is the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico! Building commenced of this giant building in 1297 with the original intention of it being the Republican Government Headquarters. The Palazzo’s façade was specially built with a slight curve to compliment the curve of the world renowned segmented Piazza del Campo.

Book a wonderful stay at a villa in Siena where you can relax and enjoy the sights and attractions of this area at your leisure.

The lower floor of the Palazzo Pubblico was built in stone and the top floors with brick. The Torre del Mangia which rises up the side of the palace was specifically designed to rival the height of Florence’s tallest tower at the time!

It’s a classic example of medieval style architecture with some gothic style blended in. A large mechanical clock was added in the 14th century and it has been since a source of inspiration for campaniles all across Europe.
View of Barga
Posted in: Castles & Palaces Localities Lucca Tourist Attractions
There are many stunning fortress remains and walled towns of the Mediavalle area of Tuscany that are most certainly worth visiting on your next vacation to Lucca province. Stay in a peaceful villa in Lucca where you can relax and unwind after a few days of cultural enrichment.

The walls of Barga still have two of the original gates hanging within it that both open into Piazza del Fosso. A moat once surrounded the outer wall as an added defence and entry could only be gained via a drawbridge. Whilst you’re in the charming town of Barga, be sure to visit the stunning duomo of St. Christopher and Palazzo Pretorio.
Castle of Nozzano
Posted in: Castles & Palaces Localities Lucca Tourist Attractions
Come and explore the beautiful Central plains of Tuscany and stop off at some of these historic spots along the way. Stay in a pretty villa rental in Lucca for a few days where you can easily commute around these nearby locations.

Begin your journey of historical discovery with a visit to the fortified town of Nozzano Castello located in the Serchio valley. Close to Lucca city, this quaint little town has been beautifully restored and offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside.

From here tourists can see the castle of Castiglione and the striking Torre dell’ Aquila.
Montemagno castle
Posted in: Castles & Palaces Localities Tourist Attractions Tuscan Coast
Come to the Versilia coast where you can find some fascinating old castle ruins and ancient walled towns to walk around and learn about. Stay in a fabulous villa with a swimming pool in the Versilia area of Tuscany for a few days to soak up some sunshine and culture!

Close to the fortressed town of Camaiore in the Versilia area of Tuscany is the partially restored castle of Montemagno.

It was built in the middle ages beside a village of the same name. It overlooked a section of the pilgrim road to Rome, the Via Francigena, running through Lucca into the Versilia plains.

Estimations have the castle dating as far back as 1099 and the private owner of the castle today had it wonderfully restored to include the original walls and the façade of the adjacent San Bartolomeo church.
Monumental cemetery of Pisa
Posted in: Churches & Religious Buildings Localities Museums & Galleries Pisa Tourist Attractions Unesco World Heritage Sites
In 1278 construction began on what was to become the majestic monumental cemetery in Pisa beside Piazza dei Miracoli. Designed by Giovanni di Simone, this fascinating space is home to a large collection of Roman tombs and beautiful 15th century frescoes.

These mesmerising images, many depicting themes of life and death were painted by Taddeo Gaddi, Benozzo Gozzoli and Andrea Bonaiuti to name but a few.

Despite that many of them were exposed to a lot of damage during World War II, they have been carefully restored and are up on display for the public to enjoy once more.