Archive for 'Museums & Galleries'

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.

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.

The Santa Maria della Scala hospital in the city of Siena has a wonderful story to share with tourists! It was one of the first hospitals in Europe and one of the oldest in the world still open, but now as a museum. Stay in a lovely vacation rental in Siena where you can easily travel into Siena city and discover all the cultural treasures it has on offer.

It lies along the Via Francigena, the famous pilgrim path leading all the way to Rome. It was most likely founded to provide food and shelter to accommodate pilgrims and other travellers along this path.

Come to Tuscany to explore its incredible marble quarries and learn their elaborate history. The Italians have been acquainted with the beauty of marble since ancient times and has been excavated from all over the country to build magnificent buildings and exquisite sculptures.

Choose from a range of beautiful holiday villas in Versilia where you can easily explore all the history and culture this coastal part of Tuscany has to offer.

Tuscany had a major marble industry, particularly at the Monte Altissimo near Seravezza. The master painter and sculptor Michelangelo chose the marble here to beautifully finish the façade of the San Lorenzo church in Florence.

Visit the ancient hamlet of Massaciuccoli near Viareggio in the province of Lucca. Human presence is dated at Massaciuccoli way back to prehistoric times.

Visitors could be greeted with no nicer setting when visiting the popular archaeological sites within Massaciuccoli village. It’s enveloped by olive grove filled hills overlooking Massaciuccoli Lake.

Stay in a glorious Viareggio villa with a swimming pool, where you will be a close distance to Massaciuccoli Lake

A nice population had settled here prior to Roman takeover but went on to thrive during the Roman Empire reign because of its scenic geographical position. Massaciuccoli is connected to Luni, Lucca and Pisa via the River Magra and River Arno.