Carnival time in Tuscany
Tuscany's oldest Carnival takes place in February / March in the village of Foiano della Chiana just south of Arezzo. With these cosy accommodation options from Essential Italy, both with open fires, the Carnival offers the perfect excuse for a winter break.
Carnivale de Foiano - 20th - 27th February and 6th - 13th March, 2011
Foiano della Chiana is a town in eastern Tuscany, south of Arezzo, and is well known for its annual carnival.
The oldest carnival in Italy started in Foiano in 1539. The four districts of the town were formed during the fascist era and to this day, compete for victory of the best float. Initially, the floats were town carriages and lupine, chestnuts and salt cod would be thrown out to the crowd as a treat. Nowadays the floats are made of papier mache featuring political events and people, films, and popular culture.
The festival is derived from medieval propitiatory rituals meant to appease the townspeople and create a joyous atmosphere to bring in the new year. An effigy of Giocondo, King of the Carnival is made from straw and rags, and is burned in the main square as a form of collective purification for the people of Foiano. Before the burning, a testament of the year's events is read aloud - a farewell to the past year and a celebration of the New Year.
Essential Italy is pleased to recommend the following two properties nearby to Foiano and thus perfect to enjoy the carnival festivities
Casa Ago (sleeps 2)
This small house has been exquisitely renovated, has a beautiful private garden and a lovely patio area. The open fire makes it perfect for a romantic winter break!
Location: Cortona 15kms, Siena 50kms, Florence 80kms, nearest village Foiano della Chiana 5kms. Nearest airport is Perugia (approximately 30 mins by car).
Price: £765 per week
Casa Violante (sleeps 6)
3 bedroom property with open fire and fantastic views.
Location: Cortona 15kms, Siena 50kms, Florence 80kms, situated in hamlet of Creti, nearest village Foiano della Chiana 5kms. Nearest airport is Perugia (approximately 30 mins by car).
Price: £1235 per week
For more information and bookings, visit: Essentialitaly.co.uk
