Located in the central, western part of Italy, Tuscany is renowned for its artistic heritage and for its incredible beauty. Ruled by Rome for centuries, the region is actually named for its original inhabitants, the Etruscans. Though the Middle Ages brought upheaval and many invasions, Tuscany rose during the Renaissance period, establishing its role in the restoration of European civilization. Joining the Italian Republic in the 19th century, the region has continued to flourish and today is a draw for millions of tourists. Surrounded by the Apennine Mountains, the Apuan Alps and the Tyrrhenian Sea, the region is divided into 10 provinces: Arezzo, Florence, Grosseto, Province of Livorno, Lucca, Massa-Carrara, Pisa, Pistoia, Prato and Siena.
While its wealth of art treasures is legendary, Tuscany is also known for its vineyards and landscapes. With 120 protected nature preserves and six UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) protected sites (the historical centers of Florence, Siena, Pienza and San Gimignano, the square of the Cathedral of Pisa, and the Val d'Orcia), there is much to see and experience throughout the region.