Fornacette
Welcome to Fornacette
Hi everyone! Today we will talk about Fornacette, the small hamlet of the municipality of Calcinaia, in Tuscany. We will take you on a journey to discover the geography, history, monuments and places of interest, economy, infrastructure and transport of this beautiful area.
Physical geography
Fornacette is located just 3 km from the center of Calcinaia, just beyond the Arno river, in the province of Pisa. The hamlet is located along the state road 67 Tosco-Romagnola, between the cities of Pontedera and Cascina, also 3 km away. Fornacette's location is perfect because you can easily reach the sea or the larger cities of Tuscany.
History
The production of bricks in Fornacette dates back to the X-XII century, when it also began in other nearby areas of the Arno river. The name of the village, perhaps, comes from "Fornacelle", meaning "small furnaces". According to the historian Emanuele Repetti, the village was called "Alfiano" in the past.
In 1564-1565, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo I de' Medici, ordered the construction of the Arno drainage ditch in the Fornacette area, called "Arnaccio", used until 1761 and then filled in for the construction of the road with the same name. The hydraulic work was important to connect the cities of Pontedera and Livorno. In the 20th century, there was a decrease in brick production, but industrial growth led to a building and demographic boom in which Fornacette surpassed the municipality's capital in terms of population.
On March 10, 1978, a serious railway accident occurred in Fornacette in which two locomotive drivers lost their lives.
Monuments and places of interest
The Fornacette hamlet has some beautiful churches and places of interest that are worth a visit. The Church of Sant'Andrea in Pozzale and the Church of Regina Pacis are two churches not to be missed. In addition, the Church of San Giuseppe Benedetto Cottolengo, located in the Ponti district, is another very suggestive place to visit.
Anthropogenic geography
Fornacette is divided into six quarters: Pozzale, Case Vecchie, Case Bianche, Ponti, Masoni, and Gaddi. Each quarter has its own identity, but together they give life to a welcoming hamlet.
Economy
Since 1949, Fornacette has been the headquarters of Asso Werke, a mechanical engineering company that produces internal combustion engine parts. Founded by the Knight of Labor Silvano Ferrucci, Asso Werke has contributed to the economic development of the area. In addition, the Bank of Pisa and Fornacette Cooperative Credit, founded in 1962, plays an essential role in supporting the local economy.
Infrastructure and transport
Fornacette is easily accessible by public transport. The company Autolinee Toscane operates regular bus services to Pisa. In the past, the locality was crossed by a steam tram that connected the Pisa-Pontedera/Calci line to Caprona and Calci.
Conclusions
Fornacette is a small village, but rich in history, beauty, and a dynamic economy. Suitable for both a walking and a driving excursion, this area is definitely worth a visit if you are in Tuscany. Come and discover Fornacette!
