Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 21 – Finale)

Our last day is spent in Florence, a magnificent city. Be prepared for the crowds, however. It has been a wonderful journey and I hope you enjoyed some of the stops along the way. A special thanks to Michael Cartwright and Shona Nunan of The Rondine Gallery in Bagni di Lucca for their guidance and support. Ciao to Bella Italia until we return.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day18)

From the hills outside the center of Bagno Vignoni with Rocca d’Orcia in the background.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day17)

BAGNO VIGNONI is an ancient village in the heart of Tuscany situated in the Val d’Orcia National Park. I was first introduced to it years ago when studying at TPW (Toscana Photographic Workshop) as it had become a favorite evening hangout for many of the students.

By day, this sleepy village hosts wonderful hillside and mountain views of the valley below. You are also treated to a haunting scene of Rocca d’Orcia in the distance.

Enjoy the thermal waters that course through the hills and carve fascinating archeological dig-like opportunities; a small park with children; the occasional hardy biker; folks staying at the nearby hotels and spas dipping their feet in the waters. But at night, it all begins to happen! The holiday-like lights throughout the village take over from the long Tuscan setting of the sun. The Square of Sources captures the reflections from the surrounding shops and restaurants. Its’ glow is magical.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 16)

Both San Quirico and Pienza are magical, ancient Tuscan towns. They are connected by an extraordinarily exciting road that  strums the true sounds of Tuscany. For years I have driven the 6.25 miles of this amazing highway and never tire of it.

SP146 / Strada Provinciale di Chianciano ribbons through the Tuscan countryside and is the stuff that Lamborghini and Ferrari must have had in mind. Go as the sun rises or as the sun is stretching its long shadows from the west. Any time of year will reveal the many facets of this magnificent countryside. There is one lane in each direction with multiple winding curves that provide a bonanza of sight lines. At a decent speed the entire ride is about 15 minutes. Downshifting into one of the many hairpins brings a broad smile to your face.

For a little extra delight, as you approach Pienza, look to your left for a sign to Santa Anna Comprena. This back road will take you to the 15^th Century Monastery where Director Anthony Minghella shot many scenes from his movie The English Patient starring Juliette Binoche and Ralph Fienes. The setting is both serene and haunting.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day15)

Heading towards the south of Tuscany for our final week, it is time to enjoy some of Montalcino‘s famous Brunello di Montalcino. The vineyards surrounding Montalcino are about 120km south of Florence in the Tuscany wine region. In 1980, Brunello di Montalcino was awarded the first Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) designation and today is one of Italy’s best-known and most expensive wines.

The hill upon which Montalcino sits has probably been settled since Etruscan times. Its first mention in historical documents in 814 AD suggests there was a church here in the 9th century, most likely built by monks associated with the nearby Abbey of Sant’Antimo.

About 9km down the road from Montalcino you can find the Abbey of Sant’Antimo. Though its history is somewhat obscure, it is believed to have been in existence since the 8th century.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 14)

Pietrasanta is a town and comune on the coast of Northern Tuscany in the province of Lucca. This medieval jewel has roman origins dating back to 1255.

It has been over seven years since we were last here, and little has seemed to change, except for the magnificent art work that adorns the city center and essentially everywhere you walk and look. Scores of artists have congregated here to feed from the synergy of creative juices.

If coming for the first time, my strong recommendation is that you make sure to be here during the evening. This sleepy town comes to life as the sun goes down; restaurants and shops open, street mimes, musicians and entertainers all come out to make this a completely entertaining experience. For those enjoying the beach, you are only three kilometers from what is considered one of nicest.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 12)

Lucca is a vibrant city known for its pedestrian promenade that encircles the city upon its exterior walls, once of military significance and later in the 20th Century as a race track for cars!. The town dates back to the Etruscans and became a Roman colony in 180 B.C. The old world charm is blended with upscale shops and energy. Its history is dramatic and chocked full of interesting sights, cafes, restaurants and people.Both residential and commercial, there is a lovely combination of serenity and electricity.  Lucca should be placed on your “to do”list.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 1)

DAY 1 –  Located along the Lima River, BAGNI di LUCCA is a delightful historic spa center in Northern Tuscany. Situated north of Lucca, the town and its thermal springs reached their height in the 19th century when they were a favorite of Napolean’s sister Elisa, Tsar Demidoff, Puccini, and British visitors such as Byron, Shelley, and the Brownings.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).