National Italian American Foundation Announces 2022 Region of Honor: Tuscany

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is pleased to announce Tuscany as 2022's Region of Honor. Following a successful regional visit where NIAF’s Board of Directors met with the President of the Region of Tuscany and local government officials we are proud to partner with Tuscany. Each year, NIAF, collaborates with a region in Italy to promote its culture, business, and tourism in the United States throughout the year. To celebrate the region, Tuscany was prominently honored at the NIAF 47th Anniversary Gala, October 29, 2022, in Washington, D.C.

“The historical ties between Tuscany and the United States are rich. I had the honor to meet with Eugenio Giani, President of the Region of Tuscany, in June where we discussed the importance of the partnership to promote a culture exchange,” said NIAF Chairman Robert E. Carlucci. “NIAF is looking forward to promoting the beautiful region in America while strengthening our historical connections and business opportunities.”

During the Foundation’s Board of Directors trip to Tuscany members toured the Strozzi Palace, Scuola del Cuoio, the Guarnacci Etruscan Museum, and much more. The annual “Mission to Italy” brings together NIAF’s leaders and local Italian government leaders.

Following tradition, NIAF’s cornerstone program, the Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery, visited the Region of Honor this summer as well. Twenty Italian American college students participated in an all-expense paid trip exploring Tuscany.

Tuscany’s history makes the whole region a must-see destination to learn about the contributions the region has made that we are still enjoying. Beginning with the Etruscan civilization that inspired the Roman Empire. The birthplace of the Renaissance started in Florence, the capital of Tuscany, thanks in part to the Medici family’s patronage of the arts and humanities. Visitors can retrace the steps of Dante Alighieri, who is considered the “Father of the Italian language”.

Located on the west coast of central Italy, Tuscany’s coastline stretches along the Ligurian and the Tyrrhenian seas. Throughout the region, discover the natural wonder of Tuscany’s hot springs and the rolling hills that adorn the countryside. The region is known for its red wines of Chianti, the Brunello di Montalcino, the Nobile di Montepulciano, and the Super Tuscans. Tuscan cuisine includes the purest extra virgin olive oil, pici pasta and the Bistecca alla Fiorentina. A meal is not complete without Vin Santo del Chianti DOC, a dessert wine that is a Tuscan symbol of hospitality.

Today, Tuscany continues to build off its historic place as the bedrock of the Renaissance by inspiring the rebirth of dreams. Whether it is through museums, festivals, fashion, or much more.

Stay up to date on the latest events throughout the country honoring Tuscany by following NIAF on social media.