In Depth

Tuscany is the most famous of Italy's 20 regions -- birthplace of the Renaissance, land of Dante's poetry and chianti wine and lovely old towns, and muse to Michelangelo. Umbria is known as the Green Heart of Italy, with the distinction of being the only Italian region that touches neither a sea nor another nation. It's a bit wilder and more mystical than Tuscany, a breeding ground for Sts. Francis and Clare of Assisi and Benedict, founder of Western monasticism.

This section covers the basic background and makeup of these regions, with essays on history, culture, art, food, and wine.