About Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is located on the western coast of Italy between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Appennine Mountains. It encompasses an area of 14,287 square miles of mountainous country and vast plains. The climate is mild near the coast, but becomes rainy further inland.

The region has a long history, passing through the hands of many different powers. The original civilizations were annexed by Rome around 200 B.C. It was dominated by the Holy Roman Empire and the Austrian Empire for centuries until claiming independence in 1850.

Tuscany is well-known for its agriculture. Olives, potatoes and a variety of vegetables make up a substantial portion of its economy. It is also known for its iron ore and copper mining. During the 21st century, the textile and pharmaceutical industries accounted for the majority of its economic development.

As one of Italy's least densely populated areas, Tuscany has 97 inhabitants per square mile. It is also the site of a vast amount of immigration. By 2008, over seven percent of the population was from other countries, most notably the UK, U.S. and China.

The government of Tuscany is dominated by the country's Democratic Party. According to election figures in the early part of the 21st century, over 50 percent of the population supports the party.