The landscapes of Tuscany, Umbria and the Marches are among the most enchanting in Europe, a fitting stage for the parade of saints, scholars and scoundrels who put this part of Italy on the cutting edge of the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Their combination of sheer beauty, wealth and dastardly doings fired some of the greatest art and literature in the West. This guide contains practical travel advice; 600 hand-picked places to stay; 600 restaurants, bars & cafes; 53 maps & plans; color touring map section; stunning photography; hand-picked itineraries for the discerning nature-lover, art enthusiast & wine-taster. (5 1/2 x 8 1/2, 714 pages, color photos, maps, diagrams)