The Most Beautiful Villages of Tuscany

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Stand at the outskirts of a Tuscan village and take in a landscape rich with vineyards, wild mountains, and charming villages perched on hillsides. Tuscany's allure extends beyond its grand cities like Florence and Siena, revealing a unique elegance in its small towns and villages. These places boast a wealth of architectural and artistic heritage, offering a complexity unmatched by other rural communities in Europe. Their deep-rooted civilization has been shaped significantly by the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, attracting travelers since the era of the Grand Tour. Explore Settignano, where Michelangelo once lived, and admire the stunning Renaissance garden of Villa Gamberaia. Visit Monterchi, home to Piero della Francesca's beautiful Madonna del Parto in a quaint cemetery chapel. The medieval towers of San Gimignano rise dramatically over its squares and streets, creating a surreal atmosphere. James Bentley highlights thirty-seven villages and towns for their beauty and historical significance, complemented by Hugh Palmer's stunning color photographs that capture the essence of this enchanting region. For visitors, there are curated listings of hotels, restaurants, and festivals, celebrating the charm of Tuscany and its villages.