THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE
SITE OF TUSCANY
The beautiful region in central Italy impresses with seven UNESCO world cultural heritage sites.
UNESCO World Heritages
UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites
Central Italy boasts seven UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites, showcasing its rich history and stunning architecture:
- The historical centre of Florence
- Piazza del Duomo in Pisa with the Leaning Tower
- The old town of San Gimignano with its family towers
- The Medici Villas and Gardens
- The old town of Siena in Gothic style
- The historical centre of Pienza in Renaissance style
- The Val d’Orcia with its beautiful landscape
The Historical Centre of Florence
The historic old town of Florence has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982. Its magnificent buildings house a rich history of art and culture. The cathedrals, palaces, and museums, such as the world-famous Uffizi Gallery, are within walking distance. Ideal for learning about its history and culture, the city features countless priceless Renaissance treasures like works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Da Vinci.
Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa
Since 1987, the outstanding ensemble on the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The three monuments of the 11th-14th century square are the cathedral, the baptistery, and the Leaning Tower. The Campanile, with its fine white marble arches, offers the most beautiful view of the Piazza. Shortly after the foundation stone was laid in 1170, the bell tower of the cathedral began to tilt due to the loamy mire. Despite lead trains attempting to control the inclination, the tower still tilts southeast by about 4 degrees today, though it remains climbable.
The Old Town of San Gimignano
The historical centre of San Gimignano was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990 due to its well-preserved medieval architecture. Over 70 family towers were built by ruling families to symbolize their power. Though many were destroyed in the World Wars, 14 remain. The dominating towers give the town a unique character, earning it nicknames like “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” or “Manhattan of Tuscany.”
The Medici Villas and Gardens
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, the Medici Villas and Gardens include two gardens and twelve luxurious villas near Florence and Lucca.
Built between the 15th and 17th centuries in harmony with the landscape, they stand for comfort and beauty. The Medici, the ruling aristocratic family during the Renaissance, influenced European culture and promoted artistic and cultural progress in Italy. Notable sites include the Boboli and Pratolino Gardens, and the Careggi, La Petraia, Cerreto Guidi, Castello, and Poggio Imperiale Villas.
The Old Town of Siena
The historical centre of Siena was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. It is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture and reflects the development of art and architecture in Italy.
Known for preserving its medieval character, Siena’s most famous building is the Piazza del Campo, where the famous Palio of Siena takes place twice a year, putting the city in a state of celebration.
The Historical Centre of Pienza
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, the old town of Pienza exemplifies a planned “ideal city.” Pope Pius II promoted and financed its redevelopment in the 15th century. Around Piazza Pio II, buildings like the Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, and Palazzo Borgia showcase Renaissance beauty and luxury. The geometric perspectives and the arrangement of structures highlight the architectural genius of the era.
The Val d’Orcia Landscape
The historic cultural landscape of the Orcia Valley extends southeast of Siena. Carefully cultivated to match Renaissance ideals, the valley was a frequent subject for artists of the Sienese School. Its hilly landscape features scattered farmhouses and small villages, offering modern artists and photographers the same picturesque scenes depicted by Renaissance artists.
Booking and Further Information
Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Tuscany on a tailor-made group tour, team event, or individual program for your corporate event. We will gladly provide an offer for your trip to this beautiful Central Italian region. Please contact us via our contact form, email, or by phone at +49 611 945879-42!
Tuscany is one of the most popular regions
Art and culture cities
Etruscans in Tuscany
Festivals & events
Geographical position
Landscape of Tuscany
Provinces & capitals
Renaissance in Tuscany
The Tuscan Archipelago
The coasts of Tuscany
The island of Elba
Tuscan specialities
UNESCO World Heritages
