Friday, October 19, 2007

Extraordinary Chance to See Hidden Art in Siena

Until October 27th you can be one of the few people to see the entire pavement inside the Duomo in Siena. The Cathedral floor is famously inlaid with mosaics representing virtues, sybils, allergories, and scenes from the Old Testament of the Bible, created between the 14th and 16 centuries. Usually only small portions of the floor are uncovered for viewing, so this is really a rare opportunity. While you are in the Duomo you'll also want to visit the gorgeous Pinturicchio frescoes in the Piccolomini Library, where illuminated manuscripts are also on display.

The Duomo is open from 10:30 am to 7:30 pm and is 6 Euros per person.

For a lovely day trip to both Siena and San Gimignano, see our "Best of Tuscany" tour at http://www.italy.artviva.com/italytravel_best_tours_tour/tuscany_tour/best_of_tuscany.

Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Meet Traditional Tuscan Artisans


A new store in Florence called Maestri di Fabbrica features one-of-a-kind wares made by artisans from all over Tuscany. The beautifully frescoed Renaissance building provides a tranquil environment where you can meet directly with the artisans and hear about the traditional methods still used to make their products. Browse through beautiful objects made of glass, alabaster, copper, leather, and fabrics.

Maestri di Fabbrica is located at Borgo degli Albizzi, 68/r in Florence.

If the idea of meeting traditional artisans and learning about their centuries-old techniques sounds appealing to you, consider joining us on our Artisans Workshop Tour. For more information, see the Artviva website at: http://www.italy.artviva.com/italytravel_best_tours_tour/personalized_tours/private_artisans_tour_florence