It is said that despite his nickname, Lorenzo ‘de Medici was not that good-looking; yet, he was such a lively and charismatic person, he was called “the Magnificent”. When he talked, his face was so expressive his company was irresistible. As a good Tuscan himself, he was also prone to read more
The event that more than anything else fueled rumors and aroused the curiosity of historians, scriptwriters and even video game makers (e.g. Assassin’s Creed) is the Pazzi conspiracy. The Pazzi family aimed at overthrowing the ‘de Medici rulers of Florence. Together with the Pazzi family and their allies also the read more
In the old city center of Florence, very close to Piazza della Signoria and Bargello, there is one of the most ancient buildings of the city: Torre della Castagna (the tower of chestnuts). The tower was built in 1038 and Emperor Corrado II gave it to the monks of the read more
The “Rificolona” is a paper lantern festival that takes place in Florence between September 7th and 8th, when the Holy Mary was born. It is one of the most ancient festivals of the city. In ancient times, peasants used to walk from the countryside – Impruneta and Vallombrosa – to read more
Gino Bartali (July 18, 1914 – May 5, 2000) was nicknamed “Ginettaccio” because he was grumpy and shy. He was an unforgettable champion road cyclist; he won the Giro d’Italia three times and the Tour de France twice. Bartali’s name is inextricably linked to Florence and Tuscany, not only because read more