Massaciuccoli Romana
Monday, May 26, 2025,
On the shores of Lake Massaciuccoli, framed by the reeds and the flight of herons from the LIPU nature reserve, lies one of the most fascinating traces of Roman presence in Tuscany: Massaciuccoli Romana.
Baths, mosaics and ancient life by the lakeOn the shores of Lake Massaciuccoli, framed by the reeds and the flight of herons from the LIPU nature reserve, lies one of the most fascinating traces of Roman presence in Tuscany: Massaciuccoli Romana.This archaeological site isn’t just a step into history—it’s a journey through time. Among preserved mosaics, ancient baths overlooking the lake, and the ruins of a majestic villa once owned by the Venulei family, Roman consuls of the imperial age.Between mosaics and hot springsThe visit begins in the “G. Lera” pavilion, the beating heart of the site. Here, among ruins and fragments of daily life, you can admire a Roman roadside station with thermal baths and stunning stone mosaic floors decorated with plants and animals.A suspended walkway offers a unique perspective from above, revealing the elegance and complexity of this ancient rest stop.The villa on the hillA short walk through olive groves leads to the Villa of the Venulei, built in the 1st century AD. Once a retreat for leisure (otium) and well-being, it is now a rare example of Roman spa architecture.Visitors can wander under arches, across panoramic terraces, and through marble pools: the frigidarium with its waterfalls, the calidarium with its still-visible heating system.All around, column fragments, frescoed walls and water features hint at the quiet luxury of life at the top.A place out of timeAt Massaciuccoli Romana, history blends seamlessly with nature. The surrounding landscape has changed very little over the centuries, offering an experience remarkably similar to that of ancient travelers.The lake is the same, the horizon unchanged. And the silence—broken only by birdsong—invites those who wish to hear what the stones still whisper.This magical corner overlooking Lake Massaciuccoli is simply enchanting.For those who wish to explore it slowly and fully immerse themselves in its timeless beauty, we suggest a stay at our beautiful villa Le Poiane, nestled among olive trees and echoes of the past.Find out more: Le Poiane – Tuscan Houses
Fava Beans, Pecorino, Cherries… Spring Flavors to Savor in Tuscany
Wednesday, May 21, 2025,
In Tuscany, May tastes like freshly picked fava beans, pecorino cheese, and the first ripe cherries. An invitation to travel with your palate, discovering springtime flavors and traditions.
May is a generous month: nature is in full bloom, colors are vibrant, and the air is filled with the scent of freshly cut grass and wildflowers. It’s the perfect time to slow down, enjoy a picnic among olive trees, or take a trip through charming villages, while tasting some of the best seasonal products the land has to offer.In Tuscany, May tastes like freshly picked fava beans, pecorino cheese, and the first ripe cherries. An invitation to travel with your palate, discovering springtime flavors and traditions.Fava beans and pecorino: simple and irresistibleA true Tuscan classic. Fava beans are shelled by hand, pecorino is diced, everything is seasoned with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper… and lunch is served. A beloved pairing, especially during outdoor snacks and picnics, perhaps accompanied by rustic bread and a glass of red wine.At the farmers’ markets in Lucca, Pisa, Pistoia, and the nearby villages, you’ll find stalls brimming with just-harvested fava beans and fresh pecorino in various stages of aging, all made by small hilltop farms. It’s also a great opportunity to discover local hospitality: many farms offer direct sales of their cheeses and vegetables, or even tastings under the pergola.Lari’s red queensYou can’t talk about May without mentioning Lari’s cherries: small, sweet, and intensely red. At the end of the month - as we mentioned in our last article - the charming village near Pisa comes alive with the traditional Cherry Festival, taking place May 24–25 and May 31–June 1–2, 2025. But even before the official celebration, the air smells of cherries and local fruit vendors begin displaying the first baskets of native varieties, carefully picked and packed.It’s the kind of fruit you’ll want to savor slowly, perhaps while strolling through the village streets or admiring the rolling hills around it.A month to experience at the table (and beyond)If you love to travel through taste, May is the perfect time to come to Tuscany. The landscapes are lush, the days are longer, and every village seems to awaken with new energy. Between picnics, farmers’ markets, village fairs, and outdoor lunches, this is truly a special time to enjoy the region in an authentic and relaxed way.
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May in Tuscany: spring scents, markets and festivals around Lucca, Pisa and Pistoia.
Friday, May 2, 2025,
Planning your spring escape to Tuscany? Now is the perfect time to explore!
In Tuscany, May is a month that awakens the senses — colors, aromas and traditions return to fill squares, historic centers, and hilltop villages.Whether you’re an art lover, a vintage treasure hunter or simply looking for an authentic local experience, here’s what not to miss if you’re visiting Lucca, Pisa, Pistoia and their provinces.For vintage lovers: the charm of antique markets Pisa and Pistoia, 10–11 May - Lucca, 17–18 May Wandering through a Tuscan antique market means taking a small journey back in time. Every second weekend of the month (10–11 May), both Pisa and Pistoia host their historic antique fairs.In Pistoia, the market is held in the evocative "Cattedrale" on Via Pertini, where collectors and curious visitors alike can admire finely preserved furniture, precious porcelain, silver goblets, lace, rare coins, and art — both sacred and secular. There’s also a touch of nostalgia in the vintage clothing, comics, and ethnic crafts that line the stalls.In Pisa, over a hundred exhibitors animate the historic center around Piazza dei Cavalieri and Piazza Garibaldi. A dream for romantics and collectors alike: delicate ceramics, crystal glasses, sepia-toned paintings, calligraphy-filled postcards, embroidered linens, antique books, and coins from across the world await discovery.And then there’s Lucca, with one of Tuscany’s oldest and most beloved antique markets, taking place 17–18 May across the old town. From Piazza San Martino to Piazza Bernardini, through Via del Battistero — the city's “antiques street” — the market stretches like a colorful tapestry. It's a celebration of craftsmanship and memory, where even a small trinket can tell a big story.Looking for something more creative? Discover the Artisan Market in Lucca Lucca, 24–25 May If it’s originality you’re after, the Artisan Market of Lucca (24–25 May) is not to be missed. Held in the city’s most beautiful squares - Piazza San Giusto, Piazza Cittadella, and Piazza XX Settembre - this market brings together a vibrant community of local makers.You’ll find handmade ceramics, jewelry, textiles, leather goods, natural cosmetics, painted stones, and even pens turned from wood. A joyful showcase of Tuscan creativity and tradition, perfect for taking home a one-of-a-kind souvenir.Culture under the stars: “Dialoghi sull’Uomo” in Pistoia Pistoia, 23–25 May 2025 For those who love cultural travel, Pistoia offers one of the most thought-provoking events in Italy: the festival Dialoghi sull’Uomo. Held in the town's historic squares, it brings together anthropologists, philosophers, artists and scientists in an open dialogue about the challenges of contemporary life.This year’s theme is “Living in the world: ecologies of dwelling and coexistence” — with reflections on climate change, sustainable living, and our shared responsibility for the future of the planet. It’s a chance to explore deep topics in a welcoming, accessible way — and a perfect excuse to fall in love with Pistoia’s elegant charm.
See full program In the heart of cherry country: the Sagra della Ciliegia in Lari (Pisa) Lari, 24–25 May and 31 May–2 June 2025 If there’s one fruit that symbolizes the joy of spring in Tuscany, it’s the cherry — and Lari, a picturesque hill town near Pisa, has been celebrating it for over 60 years.The Sagra della Ciliegia is more than a food fair: it’s a full immersion into Tuscan rural life. The streets of Lari burst with red as over 19 traditional cherry varieties are displayed, tasted, and awarded during the festival. There are street performances, music, artisan stalls, and of course, local food specialties made with cherries — from jams to desserts and liqueurs.The view alone — the one that enchanted the Grand Duke of Tuscany himself — is worth the visit.Looking for the ideal place to stay during your spring getway?Take a look at the wide selection of charming homes on tuscanhouses.com and find the perfect one for you!
See full program In the heart of cherry country: the Sagra della Ciliegia in Lari (Pisa) Lari, 24–25 May and 31 May–2 June 2025 If there’s one fruit that symbolizes the joy of spring in Tuscany, it’s the cherry — and Lari, a picturesque hill town near Pisa, has been celebrating it for over 60 years.The Sagra della Ciliegia is more than a food fair: it’s a full immersion into Tuscan rural life. The streets of Lari burst with red as over 19 traditional cherry varieties are displayed, tasted, and awarded during the festival. There are street performances, music, artisan stalls, and of course, local food specialties made with cherries — from jams to desserts and liqueurs.The view alone — the one that enchanted the Grand Duke of Tuscany himself — is worth the visit.Looking for the ideal place to stay during your spring getway?Take a look at the wide selection of charming homes on tuscanhouses.com and find the perfect one for you!
May in Tuscany: spring scents, markets and festivals around Lucca, Pisa and Pistoia.: Read More