Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CENTRAL TUSCANY
When people imagine classic Tuscan countryside, they usually conjure up images of central
Tuscany. However there's more to this popular region than gently rolling hills, sun-kissed
vineyards and artistically planted avenues of cypress trees. Truth be told, the real gems are
the historic towns and cities, most of which are medieval and Renaissance time capsules
magically transported to the modern day.
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Siena
POP 52,800
The rivalry between historic adversaries Siena and Florence continues to this day, and par-
ticipation isn't limited to the locals - most travellers tend to develop a strong preference for
one over the other. These allegiances often boil down to aesthetic preference: while
Florence saw its greatest flourishing during the Renaissance, Siena's enduring artistic glor-
ies are largely Gothic.
Sadly, the city has recently been seriously affected by the financial mismanagement of
the Banca Monte di Paschi di Siena - the world's oldest bank which was, until recently, a
source of immense local pride, employment and arts patronage.
