History, Tradition and Where to Taste It
Thursday, August 14, 2025,
A journey through flavours and culture in Lucca’s cuisine
First-time visitors to Lucca are enchanted by its Renaissance walls, cobbled streets and timeless atmosphere. But there’s one experience that wins them over even more: sitting down to enjoy a plate of steaming tordelli lucchesi, served with a rich meat ragù and a generous sprinkle of cheese. This dish embodies the history, culture and soul of the Lucca area.Origins and history
The tordello lucchese was born in the countryside around Lucca between the late 19th and early 20th century as a Sunday and holiday dish. It was the perfect way to reuse leftover boiled or roasted meat, stale bread and garden greens, turning them into a hearty filling.
The name “tordello” is a local dialect variation of “tortello,” a pronunciation that gives this pasta its distinctive Lucchese identity. Unlike other Tuscan or Emilian versions, the pasta sheet is slightly thicker so it can stand up to cooking and sauce.
The traditional recipe
It starts with fresh egg pasta rolled by hand, filled with a mixture of beef and pork, Swiss chard or spinach, bread soaked in broth, eggs and spices (often nutmeg or marjoram). After being cooked in salted water, the tordelli are served with a meat ragù and topped with Parmesan or Pecorino. Every family guards its own “secret” recipe: some prefer more greens, others more meat, and some add a touch of herbs.
Curiosities and anecdotes
• Star of many village festivals, such as those in Camigliano and Segromigno.
• Local saying: “If there’s no tordello, it’s not Sunday.”
• Differences with the Viareggio or Pisa versions are often hotly debated — a true Lucchese will defend their recipe with pride.
Where to taste it today
To enjoy an authentic tordello lucchese, stop by a country trattoria or a historic osteria inside Lucca’s walls. Many places also offer cooking classes where you can learn to make them by hand — the perfect way to bring a little taste of Tuscany home.
The Lucchese tordello is more than a dish: it’s a family story, a bond with the land, and a celebration of togetherness. Sitting down to a plate of tordelli is like stepping into the history of the Lucca area… one bite at a time.
If you’d like to discover Lucchese cuisine while enjoying an authentic Tuscan experience, Tuscanhouses will guide you in choosing villas, farmhouses, and apartments where you can not only taste tordelli, but also learn how to make them, surrounded by the unique landscapes of our region.
The tordello lucchese was born in the countryside around Lucca between the late 19th and early 20th century as a Sunday and holiday dish. It was the perfect way to reuse leftover boiled or roasted meat, stale bread and garden greens, turning them into a hearty filling.
The name “tordello” is a local dialect variation of “tortello,” a pronunciation that gives this pasta its distinctive Lucchese identity. Unlike other Tuscan or Emilian versions, the pasta sheet is slightly thicker so it can stand up to cooking and sauce.
The traditional recipe
It starts with fresh egg pasta rolled by hand, filled with a mixture of beef and pork, Swiss chard or spinach, bread soaked in broth, eggs and spices (often nutmeg or marjoram). After being cooked in salted water, the tordelli are served with a meat ragù and topped with Parmesan or Pecorino. Every family guards its own “secret” recipe: some prefer more greens, others more meat, and some add a touch of herbs.
Curiosities and anecdotes
• Star of many village festivals, such as those in Camigliano and Segromigno.
• Local saying: “If there’s no tordello, it’s not Sunday.”
• Differences with the Viareggio or Pisa versions are often hotly debated — a true Lucchese will defend their recipe with pride.
Where to taste it today
To enjoy an authentic tordello lucchese, stop by a country trattoria or a historic osteria inside Lucca’s walls. Many places also offer cooking classes where you can learn to make them by hand — the perfect way to bring a little taste of Tuscany home.
The Lucchese tordello is more than a dish: it’s a family story, a bond with the land, and a celebration of togetherness. Sitting down to a plate of tordelli is like stepping into the history of the Lucca area… one bite at a time.
If you’d like to discover Lucchese cuisine while enjoying an authentic Tuscan experience, Tuscanhouses will guide you in choosing villas, farmhouses, and apartments where you can not only taste tordelli, but also learn how to make them, surrounded by the unique landscapes of our region.
Relax and Events in the Hills of Camaiore
Saturday, August 9, 2025,
With rolling hills, charming historic villages, delicious cuisine, and traditions to experience, Camaiore is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation, culture, and unique events in Tuscany.
Camaiore is a true gem in the Versilia area, combining the peace of rolling hills with the vibrancy of a town rich in history. As a stop along the famous Via Francigena, it welcomes pilgrims and travellers from all over the world. In September, the town will host the 10th edition of FrancigenAmica, an event dedicated to those who love to discover the area at a slower pace, through walks, cultural encounters, and authentic flavours.Camaiore is also a paradise for food lovers. Among our favourite spots are Ristopasta, perfect for homemade pasta enthusiasts, Alan, a must for meat lovers, and Le Cantine Angeli, which turns into a cosy restaurant on weekends.In August, the town comes alive for Camaiore d’Altri Tempi (11–17 August 2025), a historic market exhibition that brings the charm of the past back to life. The old town fills with antique, vintage, and collectibles stalls, live performances from the Gran Teatro dei Burattini, sports events such as the Camaiore–Pedona hill climb, and musical moments ranging from Queen and Renato Zero tribute bands. But the music continues until the end of August: on August 23, the Santo Stefano Magra Philharmonic & G. Puccini Philharmonic will perform, while on August 24, Enrico Ruggeri will take the stage.In a world that moves fast, “Camaiore d’Altri Tempi” is an invitation to slow down, enjoy the streets and squares as meeting places, and rediscover the traditions that make this corner of Tuscany so unique.If you’d like to discover the Camaiore area and experience the magic of these festive days, you can stay in one of our holiday homes – the perfect starting point to explore Versilia and its traditions.
A Practical Guide for Property Owners: Which Option Is Right for You
Monday, August 4, 2025,
A guide to understanding the differences in the vacation rentals market
Vacation rental or tourist lease – a guide to understanding the differencesFrom the traveler’s perspective, there is almost no difference: both a vacation home and a tourist rental can be booked online, paid for in advance, and offer a self-contained stay in a private property.However, for property owners who want to rent out a house in Italy, it is essential to understand the distinction between a simple tourist lease, a business-type tourist lease, and a holiday home (Casa Vacanza, or CAV). Each of these options involves different tax and legal obligations that affect the owner's responsibilities and the services that can be offered.What is a tourist leaseA tourist lease, or short term rental for tourism purposes, is a contract under 30 days made between two individuals. It does not require registration and is not considered a business activity.Tax RegimeEarnings fall under property income. The owner can apply the flat rate tax (cedolare secca) at 21 percent or 26 percent in specific cases.It is not possible to deduct any expenses related to the activity, such as utilities, maintenance, or platform fees.What is a Business Tourist LeaseWhen the tourist lease is carried out regularly and with an organized approach, even without additional services, it becomes a business activity.There is no strict rule, but common factors include:managing more than four propertieshigh frequency and duration of staysusing staff or intermediariesIn this case, the owner must:open a VAT numberregister with the Business Registerissue invoices to guestsmeet all business and tax requirementsThe flat tax (cedolare secca) cannot be applied. Business income taxation is required.Requirements and Obligations
For the above cases the requirements and obligations are:notify the local government office (SUAP) of opening, suspension or closure register the property in the regional register (CIR)register the property in the national register (CIN)register the property in the town hall register for the city taxregister and report guest details to the police (Alloggiati Web)
submit tourism data to the regional ISTAT system
What is a Holiday Home (CAV)A holiday home (Casa Vacanza, CAV) is a non-hotel accommodation option regulated by regional laws. It is similar to a bed and breakfast or guesthouse.It can be managed:as a business, with VAT numberas a non-business activity, with lighter obligations but still regulatedRequirements and ObligationsEven if not managed as a business, a CAV must:notify the local government office (SUAP) of opening, suspension or closureregister the property in the regional register (CIR)register the property in the national register (CIN)
register the property in the town hall register for the city tax
register and report guest details to the police (Alloggiati Web)
submit tourism data to the regional ISTAT systemdisplay the official price list inside the property
Tax RegimeIncome from a CAV is not considered property income. It is treated as miscellaneous income or business income depending on the management type.The flat tax (cedolare secca) does not apply, but expenses such as utilities, staff, advertising, and maintenance are deductible.Services OfferedA CAV can provide:cleaning and linen changes during the stayextra serviceadditional services like baby-sitting, transfers, guided toursIn practice, it operates similarly to a small hotel.Main Differences Between Tourist Lease, Business Lease, and Holiday HomeFeatureTourist Lease Business Lease Holiday Home (CAV)DurationMax 30 days * Max 30 days * FlexibleManagement Private individual BusinessBusiness or privateExtra services allowed Basic cleaning only Limited, professional Full range of servicesTax regime Flat tax (21 or 26 percent)Standard business tax Miscellaneous or businessBureaucracy Full Full FullCost deductions NoYes YesWhich One to ChooseChoosing between tourist lease, business rental, or holiday home depends on:how many properties are involvedhow frequently you rent them outwhat type of guests you want to attractwhether you are willing to manage formal obligationsIf you rent occasionally and without additional services, a tourist lease is the simplest option.If you want to offer a professional and full guest experience, a holiday home setup is more appropriate.ConclusionIn today's dynamic tourism market, knowing the differences between tourist lease, business rental, and holiday home is essential.It helps you avoid penalties, manage costs efficiently, and offer a high quality stay to your guests.Thinking of renting out your home for holidays?Contact us at info@tuscanhouses.com for a personalized consultation and find out which model best suits your needs.
For the above cases the requirements and obligations are:notify the local government office (SUAP) of opening, suspension or closure register the property in the regional register (CIR)register the property in the national register (CIN)register the property in the town hall register for the city taxregister and report guest details to the police (Alloggiati Web)
submit tourism data to the regional ISTAT system
What is a Holiday Home (CAV)A holiday home (Casa Vacanza, CAV) is a non-hotel accommodation option regulated by regional laws. It is similar to a bed and breakfast or guesthouse.It can be managed:as a business, with VAT numberas a non-business activity, with lighter obligations but still regulatedRequirements and ObligationsEven if not managed as a business, a CAV must:notify the local government office (SUAP) of opening, suspension or closureregister the property in the regional register (CIR)register the property in the national register (CIN)
register the property in the town hall register for the city tax
register and report guest details to the police (Alloggiati Web)
submit tourism data to the regional ISTAT systemdisplay the official price list inside the property
Tax RegimeIncome from a CAV is not considered property income. It is treated as miscellaneous income or business income depending on the management type.The flat tax (cedolare secca) does not apply, but expenses such as utilities, staff, advertising, and maintenance are deductible.Services OfferedA CAV can provide:cleaning and linen changes during the stayextra serviceadditional services like baby-sitting, transfers, guided toursIn practice, it operates similarly to a small hotel.Main Differences Between Tourist Lease, Business Lease, and Holiday HomeFeatureTourist Lease Business Lease Holiday Home (CAV)DurationMax 30 days * Max 30 days * FlexibleManagement Private individual BusinessBusiness or privateExtra services allowed Basic cleaning only Limited, professional Full range of servicesTax regime Flat tax (21 or 26 percent)Standard business tax Miscellaneous or businessBureaucracy Full Full FullCost deductions NoYes YesWhich One to ChooseChoosing between tourist lease, business rental, or holiday home depends on:how many properties are involvedhow frequently you rent them outwhat type of guests you want to attractwhether you are willing to manage formal obligationsIf you rent occasionally and without additional services, a tourist lease is the simplest option.If you want to offer a professional and full guest experience, a holiday home setup is more appropriate.ConclusionIn today's dynamic tourism market, knowing the differences between tourist lease, business rental, and holiday home is essential.It helps you avoid penalties, manage costs efficiently, and offer a high quality stay to your guests.Thinking of renting out your home for holidays?Contact us at info@tuscanhouses.com for a personalized consultation and find out which model best suits your needs.
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