The history of Florence ans Tuscany

Tuscany is rich in historical monuments. Etruscan walls encircle many of the region's hilltop towns and the streets within are lined with medieval and renaissance palazzi, towns halls testifying to the ideals of democracy and self-government, and churches built on the ruins of ancient pagan temples.

The countryside, too, is dotted with castles and fortified villages, symbol of the violence and inter communal strife that tore Tuscany apart for so many years during the medieval period. Typical of these is the hilltop town of San Gimignano, with its defensive towers. Some of the most composing castles, such as the Fortezza Medicea in Arezzo, bear the name of the Medici family.

Their coat of arms, found all over Tuscany, is a remember of the role they played in the region's history. They presided over the simultaneous birth of Humanism and the Renaissance and, later, when they were Grand Dukes of Tuscany, patronized eminent scientist and engineers such as Galileo. Tuscany has also played a part in winder events: Napoleon was exiled to Elba, an Florence served briefly as capital of the newly united Italy (1865-71).

Much damage was done to Tuscany's art and monuments by World War II bombing and the floods of 1966. However, major restoration project undertaken as a result have stimulated research into up-to-date scientific methods. In this way,

Tuscany's artistic heritage continues to inspire contemporary life-something it has always done for the many creative people who live and work here and for its endless trail of admiring visitors.

You can find the best accommodation to start your Tuscany tour searching some hotels in Florence.