Hadrian’s Villa is one of the most well-preserved ancient Roman villas in the world. Expanding on a surface of 0,8 km², this archaeological site is a must-see if you are passionate about history. Or simply willing to know more about Roman culture. But is it easy to get to Hadrian’s Villa from Rome? In this guide, you will find all the information you need to plan the perfect day trip to Tivoli.
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Istanbul is the door between Europe and the Middle East and one of the most incredible cities in the world! Although when visiting Istanbul on a schedule, it may be easy to miss some iconic places. In this guide we are going to see the most beautiful places to visit when in Istanbul for at least 3 days. Let’s see them!
…11 Amazing places to visit when in Istanbul for 3 daysRead More »
Rome wasn’t built in a day. And when booking your trip to Italy ideally you should consider staying more than one night in the Eternal City. Although do not despair! Visiting the major landmarks of Rome in a day is totally doable, as long as you plan in advance your trip, and you are ready to start early. As part of my family still lives there, I know Rome as the back of my hand, and this is one of my favorite city walks to do.
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Tuscany is one of those regions where beauty is everywhere! It could be the pristine coasts of Isola d’Elba or the golden hills of Val d’Orcia. And if you are passionate about history how not to mention Florence and Pisa? However, today I’m going to talk to you about Tuscany’s best kept secret: Villa Reale di Marlia. A magnificent Villa from the 17th century that has one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy.
…Villa Reale di Marlia, 9 reasons you will love itRead More »
What’s better than an awesome museum? An awesome and free museum! In London, some of the most well-known world-class museums don’t charge their visitors for admission. The icing on the cake? They host some of the most incredible science, art, and history collections in the world. Be ready to take notes on the best free museums in London for your next trip!
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If I say Tuscany, probably the first image popping into your head is an endless expanse of golden hills and cypresses avenues. You are picturing the idyllic landscape of Val d’Orcia. One of the most beautiful places in Italy (and I’m not saying that as a Tuscany native đŸ˜‰ ). Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or simply passing by, in this guide I’ll introduce you to 7 incredible spots. You will admire the most beautiful landscapes in Val d’Orcia and take your photography to the next level.
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Do you know how many fountains there are in Villa d’Este Tivoli? 51. The answer is quite surprising considering that the Villa expands on only 4,5 hectares. What’s even more surprising is the number of its water jets: 364. And 64 waterfalls! Just to give you some numbers… By the way, I have a little confession to make. I may have used a clickbait headline for this post: 479 is the sum of all the fountains, waterfalls, and water jets of the Villa. But If you will continue to read, you will see that it was absolutely worth it, and I hope you will forgive me! đŸ™‚
…479 Reasons why you should visit Villa d’Este TivoliRead More »
Are you looking to visit something unusual and modern in Tuscany? Peccioli and Ghizzano are the perfect destinations If you are nearby Pisa. Nestled in the famous and spectacular Tuscany hills, the two villages look like a medieval fairy tale from afar. But don’t be fooled! Once you are in their narrow streets you’ll find modern murals and sculptures everywhere around the corner.
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One of the most unusual things you can do while visiting Tuscany is wander among abandoned places. The first that comes to mind is the amazing Abazia di San Galgano. But there are many more interesting Urbex places to visit in Tuscany. One of my favorites? Without a doubt Henraux, an abandoned marble quarry. Nearby Lucca, this incredible place, also known as “Le Tagliate”, has been abandoned for many years now. If you’re planning to visit Isola Santa nearby Lucca, It’s absolutely worth a detour.
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Disclaimer: Visiting abandoned places is at your own risk. We are not responsible for any trouble or injury incurred while exploring. However, we encourage you to use a little common sense to get an idea of how to safely explore.
A special thanks to my dad that discovered this place for us. You can check his detailed portfolio here.
Marco Borrini and Jean Baptiste Alexandre Henraux acquired the rights to exploit the whole area in 1821. Their society opened more than a hundred quarries. Some of them were so ancient, that the Romans used them to provide marble for their sculptures and constructions.
The society prospered for over a century. But unfortunately, World War II and the Nazi’s conquest ended the excavation activities abruptly. Even after the war’s end, the exploitation of this quarry, along with many others, was never resumed. The whole area has been forgotten for many years.
Although there is a no-entry sign, most recently the magical atmosphere of this place conquered many tourists and urban explorers. In 2021 Glitch, an artist collective, left its mark on the marble walls. The contrast between the white walls and the colored murals adds an extra charm to the location.
You can reach Henraux abandoned marble quarry from Serravezza, through Strada Pronvinciale di Arni. The quarry has direct access to the road and a parking is nearby. You will easily recognize the parking, the ancient rusty structure of the overhead crane stands like the giant skeleton of an animal. The entrance is an impressive high tunnel, on top of which you can still see the remains of the ancient banner.
A marble quarry even though abandoned was once a working site, accordingly remember it could hide some dangers.
Be extra careful when visiting and remember that:
Reminding of the splendor of ancient times, Henraux is an important witness to the past mineralogical activities of the region.
The silence of the mountains, the lakes created by the rain, and the sun’s reflection on the white walls, the atmosphere is simply fascinating. Not to mention the feeling of entering the mountain’s heart.
In summary, if you like Urbex places and murals, Henraux abandoned marble quarry is 100% worth a stop! Consider exploring will take you 1 to 2 hours. Coupled with Isola Santa exploration that will make an awesome day trip in Garfagnana, a blog post is coming soon!
If you are interested in exploring abandoned marble quarries you should check out the 5 most incredible abandoned marble quarries in Tuscany. And why not visiting an active marble quarry? In this post I have included the best guided tours that will bring you on a journey to learn everything about the story of Carrara and its white gold.
Are you preparing a trip in Tuscany? You might want to steal my itineraries, check them out.
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