Vinci

Tucked away in the heart of the Tuscan hills lies Vinci, a charming village whose origins date back to 800 BC. Located on the slopes of the fascinating Montalbano, a hilly massif best known for its vineyards and olive groves, Vinci is a unique and well-preserved medieval village that competes among the most sought-after destinations of Italian and international tourism. Not only for the beauty of its landscape and the historical importance of its heritage, but also and especially for being the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, one of the greatest geniuses in human history.

The town of Vinci, located in the heart of Tuscany, in the province of Florence, is part of the Empolese Valdelsa and Montalbano region. This territory corresponds to the cradle of the Italian Renaissance, one of the most fruitful phases in the entire history of world art and culture. Its peculiar almond-shaped structure makes it unique in the Region of Tuscany. The planted view seems to replicate a boat with two masts, represented by the tower of the Rocca dei Conti Guidi and the bell tower of the Church of Santa Croce. This peculiarity has given the historic center of Vinci the name "Castel della Nave."

Vinci, the Cradle of Leonardo
Even today, despite the passage of centuries, Vinci remains proudly linked to the figure of Leonardo, keeping his memory alive not only in the place names of the streets and squares, but also with museum activities and historical-scientific research carried out in the Museo Leonardiano and the Biblioteca Leonardiana, centers of primary importance worldwide for the study and in-depth study of the figure of Leonardo. Together, the facilities form a true ecomuseum that enhances the entire surrounding area, in an ideal itinerary of the stages that marked the life, studies and travels of Leonardo "the Tuscan."

In short, Vinci is a town that knows how to offer a thousand other attractions: from wonderful landscapes characterized by vineyards and olive groves, to dips into the past by looking at the Rocca dei Conti Guidi or the Church of Santa Croce, where, according to tradition, Leonardo was baptized, without forgetting the opportunity to taste typical local products such as extra virgin olive oil and traditional Tuscan dishes in the many trattorias in the historic center.

Just three kilometers from the town center, it is possible to visit Leonardo's birthplace, which can also be reached on foot along the Strada Verde. This trail passes through the region's picturesque vineyards and olive groves, offering an engaging journey back in time.

Local Celebrations
Vinci preserves its roots through historical reenactments and celebrations. On the last Wednesday in July, a costume procession recalls the story of Captain Cecchi Santi, a local soldier. In addition, the Unicorn Festival parade on the last weekend of July transforms the town into an imaginative medieval kingdom.

In short, whether you are a lover of art history or your passion is nature or food and wine, the town of Vinci will amaze and fascinate you. And, as happened to Leonardo more than five hundred years ago, you too will carry a little piece of this wonderful Tuscan land in your heart.