Riposo alla Toscana!Image by Jose Antonio Alba from Pixabay
The midday lull when energy is low that so many experience is taken care of nicely in Tuscany. There is no pushing yourself to work harder or trying to fight the urge to slow down and relax. During riposo, most stores, museums, churches, banks and businesses close so that the workers can have a long lunch or simply rest. Riposo begins anytime from 1:30 and will last until anywhere from 2:30 to 4 p.m. This is one of the reasons that we plan our trips around the hours of riposo. 
 
No matter the city or village in Tuscany, in the afternoons during riposo, men gather to chat. This is a long-held Tuscan tradition and very important to the goodwill of the community. It is here that problems are solved, politics are discussed and knowledge of the welfare of each member of the community is shared.
 
If you see signs on doors proclaiming “Chiuso per Riposo” it means the establishment is closed. We have noticed that gelato shops typically remain open during riposo. We think resting while eating gelato is an excellent idea!
 
At Tuscan Muse, we plan our trips for our exciting workshops in Tuscany and tours of Tuscany around Riposo is at all possible.  If we do happen to be in one of the villages or cities during riposo, we take a much needed gelato break!
 

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