Archive for 'January'

Toulouse-Lautrec is a French artist of the nineteenth century who worked in similar circles to the Impressionists such as Monet. Even if his name is new to you, it is unlikely that you are unfamiliar with his works as they have become hugely iconic. The so-called “soul of Montmartre”, he captured the streets, lights, music and atmosphere of the bohemian Montmartre district in the late nineteenth century. He was an illustrator and engraver and is best known for the posters that he designed for establishments such as the Moulin Rouge. This key figure of Parisian art history is being showcased in a fantastic exhibition not in Paris but in Pisa at the Palazzo Blu which has become more and more well-known for its world-class exhibitions. Any serious art-lovers who are thinking of holidaying in Tuscany will want to find a luxury villa in Pisa and drop by before the exhibition closes in February.

Each country that celebrates Christmas has different and unique tastes, traditions and characters. In the case of Italy, there is a very particular tradition and character that you won't see in the context of many other Christmases; a witch. Something you probably associate with Hallowe'en instead, right? However, Befana (that's her name) is quite and important figure for children in Italy at Christmas. She is actually a good witch and kind to children and you can even meet her in local towns the way you might line up to see Santa Claus. There are places all over where you can visit her so just find a luxury villa in Tuscany this Christmas and pay a visit to this unique figure of Italian winter festivities!

Witness the entertaining ‘Befanate Befanotti’ festival in the town of Piancastagnaio on the 5th January! Groups of local men dress up in old rags called befanotti and dirty their faces to look like beggars.

They then go from house to house offering to sing a lively begging song in exchange for gifts like food or money. Afterwards the jolly men gather together in the main square to divide up their earnings and eat some food while they laugh and chatter together. This unusual tradition is great fun to watch!

Choose from a great range of vacation villa rentals in Radicofani, only eight kilometres from Piancastagnaio and enjoy a selection of exciting festivals that occur locally around this time.

Do you wish to embrace the heart and soul of Tuscany during your vacation here? Then check out many of these enchanting festivals and fairs across the region that lift community spirits to new heights and offer visitors a wonderful experience of colourful sights, sounds and smells.

Stay in a lavish luxury villa in Tuscany, awarded five stars for its beauty, views and amenities. Here you can relax in the warm sunshine after a few days of travelling around some thrilling Tuscan events!

If you’re here for a magical Christmas vacation in Tuscany then you’re sure to experience the ‘Befana' or 'La Festa dell' Epifania’ which is the ‘Feast of the Epiphany’ on the 6th of January.