Archive for 'Siena'

In the last post in this series, we are rounding out our spooky Tuscan spots to get you in the mood for Hallowe'en. No matter what time of year you are planning your trip Tuscany – but especially during this creepy time of year – these haunted palaces, fascinating legends and spooky tales will never not be interesting. Here are more of our picks of must-see ghoulish destinations in Tuscany...

7. Brolio Castle's Terrifying Ghost

Brolio Castle, located in the Chianti region, in the province of Siena, is a beautiful architectural gem but is also home to an eerie legend and the ghost of Bettino Ricasoli, a rather fearsome spirit.

Continuing this week's theme of spooky Tuscan spots, we have more must-see locations with creepy background stories. Ghostly events and haunted palaces might not be the first things that spring to mind when you think of the famous Italian region but we can assure you that there are plenty of legends and tales to keep anyone interested in the spookier things in life – who have found a vacation rental in Tuscany – interested. Here more of the spots to pencil in...

5. Vincigliata Castle's Romeo and Juliet Tale

Vincigliata Castle, located near the town of Fiesole in the province of Florence, has a famous Romeo and Juliet legend that dates back to the 13th century and tells the story of Uberto and Bianca. They fell madly in love at first sight and kept their relationship secret until they were discovered. Then, sadly, they were torn apart by their powerful Florentine noble families who were fierce enemies.

Tuscany might not be the most obvious Hallowe'en destination or spot for spooky adventures but, given how steeped in history and legend it is, it should be no surprise that it actually is quite a fun and fascinating place to spend the season. From creepy legends to haunted castles, there are spooky attractions and sites at every turn. So, why not discover some of the creepiest spots in Tuscany and get planning a vacation for Hallowe'en or, if you're always in the mood for such an adventure, any time throughout the year...

1. The Devil's Bridge and Hallowe'en Celebrations in Borgo a Mozzano

Located in the province of Lucca, this Tuscan town is most famous for the Ponte del Diavolo (or Devil's Bridge).

Chianciano Terme can trace its origins to the 5th century BC, when the Etruscans arrived and built a temple that was dedicated to the god of Good Health, close to the Silene springs. Those springs and the waters of Chianciano have been a tourist destination and an attraction for their medicinal properties since Roman times and Horace himself is known to have bathed in and imbibed the waters.

Chianciano continued to both draw visitors and function as a regular town over the centuries but, in the 20th century, the springs specifically attracted the attention of developers and neoclassical buildings and facilities were built in the 20s and 30s. In the 40s, the then Fascist-controlled state took possession and destroyed and replaced these, drawing up a new plan under architects Loreti and Marchi. This plan was adjusted by the Town Technical Office of Chianciano in 1958 and eventually passed in 1961 and, today, there is the Old Town and New Town where the thermal spring spas were designed.

There is no shortage of incredible and picturesque villages and towns in Tuscany but one of the most charming is Radicondoli in the Province of Siena. Located about 60km southwest of Florence and about 25km southwest of Siena. This pretty, millennia-old walled town is perched on a hilltop with panoramic views over the rolling hills of the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

With cobblestone streets, a close-knit community, a delicious locally-sourced local cuisine and sustainable lifestyle, it is home to less than a thousand people and is an idyllic little spot, a world away from tourist attractions and crowds.

This is an authentic and picturesque place that is terribly photogenic and a perfect little enclave to escape to on holidays. Just find a vacation rental in Radicondoli and come discover its charms for yourself.