Vicchio

Vicchio is a comune (municipality) in the Metropolitan City of Florence, Tuscany, Italy. It is located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) northeast of Florence.

Geography: Vicchio lies in the Mugello valley, a mountainous region known for its agricultural production and picturesque landscapes. The area is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and the Sieve river which flows through the valley.

History: The area around Vicchio has been inhabited since Etruscan and Roman times. The town itself developed during the Middle Ages, centered around a castle that belonged to the Ubaldini family. It later came under the control of Florence and the Medici family. Vicchio is notable as the birthplace of the artists Giotto and Fra Angelico.

Main Sights:

• Casa di Giotto: Believed to be the house where Giotto was born.
• Museo di Arte Sacra e religiosità popolare: A museum dedicated to sacred art and popular religious traditions.
• The surrounding countryside and opportunities for hiking and exploring the Mugello region.

Economy: The economy of Vicchio is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and small-scale manufacturing.

Culture: Vicchio maintains strong ties to its artistic heritage and rural traditions.