Torcigliano
Welcome to Torcigliano: Let's discover this beautiful hamlet of Camaiore together
Torcigliano is a small hamlet in the municipality of Camaiore, in the province of Lucca. Located 400 meters above sea level, at the foot of Mount Apuano, it is a charming place, immersed in nature and surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. In this article, we want to take you on a journey to discover the ancient charm of this town.
Physical geography: nature and cultivation
Torcigliano is situated in a hilly area, surrounded by dense wild vegetation of Mount Apuano. The town's territory is mostly characterized by vineyards and olive groves, which produce the famous extra virgin olive oil. In the past, the only way to connect with other nearby towns was through a mule track, now abandoned and replaced by a winding road that offers breathtaking panoramic views.
History: from origins to the 14th century
The first written evidence of Torcigliano dates back to the 10th century. The territory was part of the jurisdiction of Camaiore and belonged to the church of San Giovanni Battista, Santa Maria, and Santo Stefano of the Pieve di Camaiore. In 984, Bishop Teudigrimo granted one-fifth of the assets and lands of the Pieve di Camaiore to the noble Cunerado, including Torcigliano.
In the 13th century, thanks to the reorganization of the Luccese hamlets, Camaiore became the capital of Vicaria. The representatives of each community, known as the heads of households, went to legislate, allowing for a new organization that no longer depended on local lords.
In the 14th century, Torcigliano was composed of a rich forest that the inhabitants exploited to meet their primary needs. The most sought-after product was wine, which confirmed the cultivation of the vine. The area was also rich in chestnuts, which farmers used to obtain flour. Livestock farming and pastoralism were complementary activities to agriculture. The community of Torcigliano was made up of the descendants of farms who had worked for the nobles.
With the presence of the plague in 1348-1349, the population was hit and the Estimates made recorded a reduction. The housing structures were scattered to cultivate the land near the dwellings and monitor other structures dedicated to livestock farming and agricultural work.
Conclusions
Torcigliano is a place that encompasses history, nature, and tradition. The cultivation of vineyards and olive groves, the processing of chestnuts, and pastoralism still represent important economic activities for the community. If you are passionate about trekking, Mount Apuano offers numerous opportunities for excursions and breathtaking views. We recommend visiting Torcigliano to discover the charm of this small hamlet immersed in nature.
