History

The first people to inhabit Tuscany were the Etruscans who established the town of Fiesole in the 1st century B.C. The Etruscan community flourished in the area until being conquered by the Roman Empire. The Romans established many towns in the area like Lucca, Pisa, Siena and Florence.

When Roman power waned, barbarians invaded the area. The invasion in Tuscany wasn't as bad as in other regions of Italy making Tuscan cities superior during this time. Tuscan people soon developed remarkable skills in their craft building and trading that led to their wealth.

During the early years of the states, there was turmoil and disagreement. Tuscany wasn't the same anymore, feudalism was important. A lot of skirmishes happened between Lucca against Pisa, Fiesole against Florence, and Arezzoa against Sienna.

It wasn't until the end of the thirteenth century that some form of order began. The most powerful city for a while was Pisa ; Siena surpassed Florence in the business of banking and money matters and formed business links with France and England. Lucca became wealthy while Florence finally became the governing power of the region.

Because of the rise of Florence, it became a breeding ground for ideas and inventions. In the 15th and 16th century, it established itself as the force of Tuscany. Its position was supported by various European families and monarchies.

When the Medici family regined during the 15th century , Florence became a principality. It then became a vital part of Italy in 1860 becoming a vital center of the nation. It even became the temporary capital of Italy from 1865 to 1871.

Today, Tuscany has grown wealthy and it is a major cultural center which attracts many tourists every year.

In the 15th and 16th century, it established itself as the force of Tuscany