L'Italo-Americano

THURSDAY, JULY 27, 2023 www.italoamericano.org 20 L'Italo-Americano A top a beautiful T u s c a n h i l l , o v e r s h a d o w e d in fame by the world-renowned city of Florence, lies a hidden treasure that is often over- looked by the casual tourist: t h e e n c h a n t i n g t o w n of Fiesole. Fiesole may not be as glob- ally recognized as its illustri- ous neighbor, but it is a place of profound beauty, rich his- tory, and cultural significance that offers a unique and cap- tivating experience to those who venture off the beaten path and decide to discover it. Its history, for instance, is as old as it is fascinating: the town was a significant center o f E t r u s c a n c i v i l i z a t i o n b e f o r e t h e Romans established their rule, and the vestiges of this ancient past are still visible today in the town's archaeo- logical area, where one can explore the Etruscan walls, the Roman baths, and the Roman amphitheater. This connection to the past gives Fiesole a unique charm and a sense of timelessness typical of our country. But the town's historical significance is not just a mat- t e r o f a n c i e n t h i s t o r y : i n the Middle Ages, Fiesole w a s a n i n d e p e n d e n t a n d powerful entity, often at odds with Florence. The town's strategic location on a hilltop provided a natural defense, making it a formidable adver- sary to the growing power of Florence. Despite the con- flicts, Fiesole remained a p l a c e o f i m p o r t a n c e a n d i n f l u e n c e , a t t r a c t i n g t h e attention of wealthy Floren- tines who built their villas in its picturesque surroundings. In the Renaissance period, Fiesole continued to flourish: it became a hub of art and culture, attracting artists and intellectuals who were drawn to its beauty and tranquility. The town's artistic legacy from this period is still evi- dent today in its beautiful vil- l a s a n d g a r d e n s , m a n y o f w h i c h a r e a d o r n e d w i t h works of art from the era. Indeed, history and art are woven into the very fabric of Fiesole, making it a living museum of sorts. Every cor- ner of the town, every stone on its streets, tells a story of a past that stretches back over millennia. From its Etruscan roots to its Roman heritage, from its medieval struggles to its Renaissance glory, Fiesole embodies the historical evo- lution of Tuscany in a way few places can. And this is w h y a r t a n d architecture are integral to F i e s o l e ' s i d e n t i t y : t h e Romanesque-style Duomo di S a n R o m o l o , t h e a n c i e n t C h u r c h o f S a n t a M a r i a Primerana, and the Basilica of Sant'Alessandro are just a few of the architectural mar- vels that adorn the town. T h e B a n d i n i M u s e u m , with its collection of art, and the Civic Archaeological Museum, which documents the city's history, are must- visit spots for art and history enthusiasts. These institu- tions house priceless works of a r t a n d a r t i f a c t s , m a k i n g Fiesole a treasure trove for those with a keen interest in art and history. But this beautiful town is not just about the past, it is very much alive and vibrant today, and offers a plethora o f a c t i v i t i e s f o r v i s i t o r s . Nature lovers can enjoy walks in the surrounding hills, such as Monte Ceceri, a place that inspired Leonardo da Vinci's study of bird flight. T h e t o w n a l s o h o s t s the Estate Fiesolana, a summer festival that brings together the greatest masters of theater, music, and inter- national art. This festival, held in the ancient Roman theater, shows Fiesole's com- mitment to preserving its his- t o r i c a l h e r i t a g e w h i l e embracing the vibrancy of contemporary arts. One of the most intriguing aspects of Fiesole is its inter- national allure, largely due to the presence of the Euro- pean University Institute (EUI). This prestigious insti- tution attracts scholars from around the world, adding a cosmopolitan flavor to this small Tuscan town. The EUI, with its focus on social sci- ences, contributes to the cul- tural and intellectual richness of Fiesole, making it a hub of academic excellence. The p r e s e n c e o f t h e E U I a l s o means that Fiesole is often buzzing with academic con- ferences and cultural events, adding to the town's vibrant atmosphere. O f c o u r s e , n o v i s i t t o Fiesole would be complete w i t h o u t i n d u l g i n g i n the local cuisine. The hills of Fiesole produce high-qual- ity extra virgin olive oil, a key i n g r e d i e n t i n m a n y l o c a l d i s h e s . W h e t h e r i t ' s t h e hearty ribollita, the tomato- based pappa al pomodoro, or a simple bruschetta, the fla- vors of Fiesole are sure to delight your palate. And it goes without saying that a meal is best enjoyed with a glass of Chianti Colli Fioren- tini DOCG, a full-bodied wine that was a favorite of the his- toric Medici family. The culi- nary traditions of Fiesole are a reflection of its rich cultural heritage, offering a gastro- n o m i c j o u r n e y t h a t i s a s enjoyable as its history and art. Fiesole may not be Flo- rence, but it is special in its own right and offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a town where you can enjoy life at a slower pace, while exploring its ancient streets and savor- ing delicious Tuscan cuisine. So, the next time you find yourself in Tuscany, take a detour and give Fiesole a chance: you never know, it may just become the high- light of your trip. After all, the true beauty of travel lies in discovering the unseen and the overlooked, and Fiesole is a perfect example of that. FRANCESCA BEZZONE Quaint Fiesole is located on a hill near Florence (Photo: Eileen Tan/Dreamstime) The Etruscan city of Fiesole, the balcony over Florence The Monastery of San Francesco, in Fiesole (Photo: Eddygaleotti/Dreamstime) ALL AROUND ITALY TRAVEL TIPS DESTINATIONS ACTIVITIES

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