IV.

Economy

Agricultural products are wheat, maize, olives, and tobacco. Winemaking is central to the region’s economy. Grapes have been cultivated there for nearly 3,000 years and Tuscan wines today include some of Italy’s best reds (in particular Chianti). The Arno valley, between Florence and Leghorn, is the site of most of the industry in Tuscany. The most important manufactured products are wool and cotton textiles—particularly in the northern city of Prato; chemicals; cigarettes; food products; machinery; glass; and ceramics. Leghorn is the region’s chief port and an important shipbuilding centre. The Italian naval academy, naval shipyards, and a naval arsenal are located in the city. Tourism is of major importance; the cultural cities of Florence, Pisa, and Siena are popular destinations for thousands of overseas visitors each year.