Physical Geography and Economy This prosperous economic region
is mostly hilly and mountainous. There is much fertile soil,
especially in the Arno River valley and in the Maremma, a
coastal strip. The Apennines are in northern and eastern
Tuscany; in the northwest are the Alpi Apuane, where the famous
Carrara marble is quarried; and there are also mountains in the
south, where iron, magnesium, and quicksilver are produced. In
addition, borax is produced in the Maremma, and iron is mined on
Elba island. Along the northern coast, which is low and sandy,
are fine pine woods. Farm products of the region include
cereals, olives, tobacco, and grapes; sheep, goats, and hogs are
widely raised. The wine produced in the Chianti district near
Siena is world famous. Tuscany has considerable industry,
although farming is still an important chief occupation.
Manufactures include cotton and woolen textiles, metal products,
chemicals, machinery, motor vehicles, precision instruments,
glass, refined petroleum, and fertilizer.