FIesole

Fiesole is a pretty town in the scenic hills above Florence with Etruscan roots, Roman ruins, and views of Florence on clear days. In summer, there are breezes to cool the temperature and outdoor performances in the Roman Amphitheater. Fiesole was probably founded in the 9th-8th century BC, as it was an important member of the Etruscan confederacy, as may be seen from the remains of its ancient walls. Fiesole was an independent town for several centuries in the early Middle Ages, no less powerful than Florence in the valley below, and many wars arose between them; in 1010 and 1025 Fiesole was sacked by the Florentines, before it was conquered by Florence in 1125, and its leading families obliged to take up their residence in Florence. By the 14th century, rich Florentines had countryside villas in Fiesole.