The magical Tuscan land

There is a place on the map where Mediterranean nature is met with respect and even the buildings follow the rules of the land. Lyrical in its views, magical in its kitchen and excellent in its culture, the Tuscan region in Italy is all about discovery. Florence stands as an ultimate landmark of the art that has flourished here, since the Romans, while the Renaissance is still vibrant through the masterpieces scattered all over the place. However, cutting edge art is here in full force, creating a magical blend of history.

The Tuscan sun burns bright over the soft hills, wide vineyards, and rich olive groves, creating postcard-perfect landscapes where centuries-old towns, rural villas, and farmhouses create their own little havens. In a new book by Angelika Taschen and Barbara & René Stoeltie, Taschen books tracked down the best examples of such havens to paint a warm-hued picture of the look and feel of Tuscan living.

Wineries, artisan pasta, bistecca Fiorentina, meet medieval hermitages nestled in hillsides, or even fabulous makeovers of old farmhouses into contemporary architectural landmarks. Across modern architecture and traditional craftsmanship, minimal earthenware and decadent furniture, the book discovers all the natural tones and sun-kissed textures of Tuscany. Spot, among the images, the Villa Villoresi, where, legend has it, Dante’s wife took refuge during the poet’s exile in the early 14th century. It’s a great way to discover where Tuscany’s charm comes from. Timelessness is all about great aesthetics.