Italy’s Paradise: A History of Tuscany

by Alistair Moffat

A delicious trip through the geography, history and culture of the region' – Sunday Telegraph

Ever since the days of the Grand Tour, Tuscany has cast its magic spell on foreign vistiors. Attracted by the perfect combination of history, art, architecture, superb natural beauty and weather – not to mention magnificent traditions of food and drink – British visitors and residents have been at times so numerous that the local word for foreigners was simply 'gli inglesi' – 'the English'.

What is it that makes this exquisite part of Italy so seductive? Alistair Moffat embarks on a journey into Tuscany’s past. From the flowering of the Etruscan civilization in the seventh century bc through the rise of the powerful medieval communes of Arezzo, Luca, Pisa and Florence, and the role the area played as the birthplace of the Renaissance, he underlines both the area’s regional uniqueness as well as the vital role it has played in the history of the whole of Italy. Insightful, readable and imbued with the author’s own enthusiasm for Tuscany, this book includes a wealth of information not found in tourist guides.

'A sun-drenched meditation on the character of the place and its people' – The Scotsman

Genres: History

352 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published April 1, 2024

About the author

Alistair Moffat is an award winning writer, historian and former Director of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Director of Programmes at Scottish Television.

Moffat was educated at the University of St Andrews, graduating in 1972 with a degree in Medieval History. He is the founder of the Borders Book Festival and Co-Chairman of The Great Tapestry of Scotland.

Reviews

[Timothy Phin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this book. Renaissance history is not my usual wheelhouse, but this book has enriched and entertained me. I learned so much, particularly about Florence, which dominates the central chapters of the text. I also appreciate the wide historical sweep at the end, though I did wish for more! But I think that is the sign that a book has created an investment in a reader. If you think about Italy even half as often as I do, let me recommend this book.

[Steven Berger · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and immersive history of Tuscany and the characters that have been a part of that journey. Well written, well researched and fascinating, the perfect book for travellers who want more than a guidebook.

[Max · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really good insight into the history of tuscany! The majority of the book focuses on Florence understandably so!