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GOLF TEACHING PRO%u00ae 48 WINTER 2O26The city is well known for being the birthplace of the Renaissance, a very important historical period in Europe characterized by notable artistic, cultural, and scientific advancements. There was an explosion in architecture, sculpture, and painting due to the development of new techniques and styles. Therefore, the city is permeated with marvelous buildings, statues, and museums. You will need at least a few days to enjoy the arts surrounding you. Around every corner, street, or piazza, hidden treasures will be revealed.In particular, don%u2019t miss the Cathedral with the Baptistery, Giotto%u2019s Bell Tower, Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio and Michelangelo%u2019s David. Also, take the time to drive to Piazzale Michelangelo, a broad terrace on the hills where you can take in breathtaking panoramic city views. After visiting Florence, on your way to the Chianti region, I suggest you visit the %u201cCircolo Golf dell%u2019Ugolino,%u201d a par-72 golf course famous for being beautiful, challenging and immersed in vineyards, olive groves and maritime pines (yes, breath the magnificent air). This course was designed by two Scottish architects 91 years ago and it%u2019s one of the oldest and most scenic in Italy.Even if you don%u2019t golf that day, you can appreciate the beautiful landscape and enjoy lunch or dinner in the superb and elegant restaurant. The food is unbelievable, the kindness unbeatable and the atmosphere unforgettable.If you golf, be ready to challenge this hilly and narrow 18 holes, featuring small and fast greens, big slopes and slim fairways. You can certainly tell that the two architects were from Scotland! It%u2019s quite easy to lose your ball or hit a pine tree, so be sure to carry enough balls in your bag. After this stop and heading toward the city of Siena, you can visit the Chianti region. This hilly area with amazing views is famous for its vineyards and olive trees. Everywhere you go, you can sip an excellent glass of Chianti Classico, probably the most famous Italian wine, or have a tasting of the amazing extra virgin olive oil which is locally produced.The Chianti region is also famous for superior quality beef, called %u201cChianina,%u201d that they slowly grill to perfection on wood coals. The results is a very unique tender, smoky, and juicy steak with a wooden aroma.You will never forget the superior quality of the Tuscan food. No matter where you eat, at expensive restaurants or local %u201ctrattorie,%u201d your culinary experience will be unmatched. You will never forget this special journey through the beautiful Tuscany region, one of the very special gems of Italy.NEWS FROM ITALYGreetings from (too) sunny Italy! There are many reasons why Florence is considered one the most beautiful cities in the word. The location, art history, monuments and food are just a few of the unique things that will impress you as you arrive.STORIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD ITALYBy Camilla Bernini Zeigler, USGTF Member