Toscana, or Tuscany, is a region of north western Italy. It comprises the provinces of Apuania, Arezzo, Pistoia, Lucca, Florence (Firenze), Pisa, Leghorn (Livorno), Siena and Grosseto. As it is a coastal region, its islands include Giglio and Elba. Other towns are Carrara and Massa. Wheat and olives are cultivated. It is a major wine-producing region with some famous wines, often using Sangiovese grapes for red wines and Trebbiano, Chardonnay or Sauvignon for whites. A number of estates, particularly those in Chianto Classico, use other grapes. The region is particulary renowned for its olive oil. The cuisine includes wonderful bean soups.
