Tuscania (the city, not the region called "Tuscany") Northwest of Rome is the site of Lorenzo De Medici's third campus (the other two are in Florence and Rome). During a visit this week, I found it a beautiful and picturesque medieval town quietly free of all but a smattering of tourists.
Its medieval history is not experienced by rushing to dozens of "major" sites, but by meandering through its quiet 15th. c. streets. It's also not about living in the medieval past. Tuscania is a town whose streets, churches, and houses have been preserved while, at the same time, it has continually adapted to the modern world.
LdM chose Tuscania precisely because it represents an Italy that is very different than that of Florence or Rome. It is a less intense and transient environment where serious students can work peacefully, be steeped in history, and feel a part of a contemporary Italian community. It also has gelato that can compete with Florence's.
Here are some photos.
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3 comments:
Yes, you captured the very atmosphaere of this etruscan region. Peace and slow pace meet myth and spirituality... A touch of mystery and nightmare lingers between ancient tombs and catacombs that must have inspired Lovecraft's visions.
Unfortunately, you'll still find a tv in every kitchen, as you'll find a car around each corner of this marvellous village.
Great pics! Reminds me of Assisi, with its narrow meandering walkways and views of the landscape outside the city walls. Wish I could be there to paint.
Scott, next time we are fortunate enough to visit Italy, it is the offbeat villages we must visit. Great post.
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