Archive for 'Must See Attractions'

The painter Masaccio was one of the most influential and important painters of the Quattrocento period of the Italian Renaissance, a key figure in moving from the more stylised and decorative aesthetic of Gothic art to something more naturalistic. Vasari, an artist and architect in his own right who was a great writer, historian, and chronicler of the Renaissance masters, notes that Masaccio was studied by all of Florence’s most celebrated painters and sculptors in order to, "learn the precepts and rules for painting well."

So, though his name is perhaps unfamiliar to many, his influence goes far beyond his life and work and his paintings, when viewed today, remain striking and impressive things to behold. Full of dramatic tension, stunning jewel tones, and impressive lifelike figures, his paintings and frescoes are a delight to devour.

If you are browsing our Tuscany Villas and are already a fan of his work, in particular, or are simply interested in the history of art and the Italian Renaissance, then this winter is an ideal time to plan a vacation in Tuscany as the master’s great works are returning to Masaccio’s home town of San Giovanni Valdarno for a very special exhibition!

Have you been looking at our Tuscany villas and considering a vacation in Florence? Well, if that is the case and you’re looking to dip into the city’s chic side then you should definitely plan a visit to the Luisa Via Roma store. Many fashion-lovers are already familiar with the brand as one of the best designer shopping experiences online – a place where you can pick up incredible pieces from the likes of Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Max Mara, Prada, Gucci, and much more besides – but the in-person shopping experience offered by their Florence store is a must for any style obsessives who are thinking about booking a luxury villa in Florence. To be added to any serious fashionista or fashionisto’s itinerary of the city, along with a visit to the Ferragamo Museum, the Gucci Garden, the artisanal leather stores of the city, and more, the Luisa Via Roma store is located in the heart of Florence, on Via Roma, in between the Baptistery and the Piazza della Repubblica, and boasts three floors of gorgeous goods as well as an excellent restaurant.

Planning your next Tuscan getaway? Then check out this incredibly stylish apartment in the historic city of Cortona...

Cortona is medieval walled town perched on a hilltop overlooking the typical and lovely Tuscan landscape of rolling green hills and lush farmland plains of the region. One of the most undeniably picturesque destinations in all of Tuscany, it is the idyllic setting of the beloved book and film, “Under the Tuscan Sun.” With origins dating all the way back to the Etruscans and the Romans, it is steeped in history and tradition and is remarkably well-preserved. Merely wandering around the historic centre is a pleasant activity that could well occupy an entire day but in addition to the charming surroundings and aesthetic of this ancient citadel, there is an array of incredible museums in the town. Cortona boasts a City Museum, library, Museum of the Accademia Etrusca (MAEC), and Etruscan Academy Art Gallery (home to works by a variety of Tuscan and local artists from the 13th to the 17th century, such as Pinturicchio, Signorelli, Taddeo Gaddi, Spinello Aretino, Piazzetta and more) all located in the beautiful Palazzo Casali. Another fascinating museum in town is the Diocesan Museum and there are a number of gorgeous churches, including the Church of Santa Maria Nuova built according the design of famous 16th century architect Giorgio Vasari.

The Palazzo delle Papesse is a beautiful historic palace and architectural gem located in the centre of Siena that has a rich and fascinating history and is currently playing host to an equally fascinating exhibition that brings together the art of famous surrealist Salvador Dalí and the thoughts, theories, and discoveries of some of the ground-breaking and world-leading scientists who intrigued him, including Galileo, who once lived for a time in the building after his abjuration. A lesser-known but truly incredible tourist attraction in the historic core of this beautiful city, it is a must-see for those who browse our Tuscany villas and then find a vacation rental in Siena.

Tuscany and Italy, in general, are both places famous for style, culture, and incredibly-made objects. There are countless heritage brands throughout the region that have existed for literal centuries and continue to produce stunning items. Of course, we know of the Guccis and the Ferragamos of the world but there are countless other amazing Tuscan brands to discover. In particular, there are lots and lots of wonderful homewares brands that produce the kind of stunning household goods that interiors lovers will lust over and even the totally uninterested will stop and admire in awe. Among these, the ceramics brand Ginori 1735 is an exceptionally brilliant example. Of course, with the expertise, impeccable design and construction, and gravitas lent by the age and reputation of the brand, the price tag associated with their goods in not insubstantial. For many, a large proportion of their pieces will fall well outside their usual budget for such things. However, if you like to invest in your homewares, or you really just want to own something from this beloved brand yourself, or you have a larger budget to play around with then you might be interested in the Ginori 1735 factory shop in Sesto Fiorentino. A brilliant way to get your hands on some stunning pieces at discounted rates or to really stock up if you are one of those people who have a larger budget, this is a must-stop spot for all interiors obsessives who find a luxury villa in Florence and are planning on spending some time exploring the area around the city or for those who find a villa with pool in Tuscany and are willing to make a specific day trip to the store.