Private day trip from Florence to the Carrara marble quarries to find out where Michelangelo carved the marble for his sculptures and to visit the scenic Cinque Terre villages.
In the morning you will meet your private driver at your hotel in Florence and he will take you to the beautiful area of the Carrara Marble Quarries on the white peaks of the Apuan Alps where Michelangelo took the marble used for his sculptures such as the David in Florence, La Pietà in the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome.
With your driver, reach the entrance of Michelangelo's favorite quarry for the special quality of its marbles.
From there with your quarry guide you enter the heart of the quarry, immense white rooms many called Marble Cathedral, with the staff of the marble quarry - to feel comfortable in the marble cave but remember your pullover and hiking shoes.
You will receive detailed information on the birth of the tunnel quarry, the machinery and their use, the extraction techniques and of course information on marble as a material used in the various sectors.
Continue your tour with your driver to the Versilia Coast, a lengthy stretch of fine sandy beach that includes the towns of Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, Marina di Pietrasanta, and Camaiore.
Here, you'll have time for leisurely strolls through the charming downtown areas of these towns or relaxing on the sandy beach at one of the many elegant lidos.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Visit the heart of the Carrara Marble Quarry with its scenic landscape
- Enjoy time at leisure in Versilia Coast
- Private tour with your personal driver
DETAILS
Duration:
10 hours
Start Time Private Tour:
Morning
Meeting Point:
At the lobby of your Hotel in Florence
Inclusion:
- Private Mercedes E series car (for your party from 1 to 2 persons)
- Private Mercedes Minivan (for your party from 3 to 6 persons)
- Professional English speaking driver.
Exclusions:
- Gratuities (optional),
- Admission fees to churches, museums, marble quarries
- Meals and Beverage
Notes:
- More of 6 persons rates on request.
- Private full day guide on request
Important:
- To be comfortable in the marble cave remember to have with you pullover and shoes for trekking.
F.A.Q.
- Why is Carrara marble so famous?
Carrara marble is famous for several reasons:
1. Exceptional Quality: Carrara marble is renowned for its exceptional quality, characterized by its pure white color, fine grain, and relatively low porosity. These qualities make it highly desirable for use in sculpture, architecture, and interior design.
2. Historical Significance: Carrara marble has been prized since ancient times. It was used by ancient Roman architects and sculptors, including Michelangelo, who famously sourced his marble from the quarries of Carrara for his masterpieces, such as the Statue of David and the Pietà.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: The pure white color and subtle veining of Carrara marble give it a timeless and elegant aesthetic that is highly sought after in luxury design and architecture. Its versatility allows it to be used in a wide range of applications, from countertops and flooring to sculptures and monuments.
4. Cultural Heritage: The Carrara region in Italy has a rich cultural heritage associated with marble extraction and craftsmanship. The Carrara quarries have been in operation for over 2,000 years, and the art of marble quarrying and carving has been passed down through generations, contributing to the region's cultural identity.
5. Global Recognition: Carrara marble has achieved global recognition as a symbol of luxury, quality, and craftsmanship. It is exported to countries around the world and used in prestigious projects, including iconic buildings, monuments, and works of art.
6. Sustainable Practices: The Carrara marble industry has made efforts to adopt more sustainable practices in recent years, including initiatives to reduce environmental impact and promote responsible quarrying techniques. This commitment to sustainability adds to the appeal of Carrara marble for environmentally conscious consumers and designers.
Overall, Carrara marble's combination of exceptional quality, historical significance, aesthetic appeal, cultural heritage, global recognition, and sustainable practices contribute to its enduring fame and desirability in the world of design and architecture.