Faeto
Exploring the village of Faeto: nature and history
If you're looking for a quiet place to immerse yourself in nature, Faeto might be the right choice for you. Located on the southern slope of the Pratomagno massif, this village in the municipality of Loro Ciuffenna in the province of Arezzo, Tuscany, is surrounded by a mountainous area rich in forests and rock outcrops.
Physical geography
The village is located at 612 m above sea level and can be easily reached by the Setteponti provincial road. The surrounding area is characterized by vast beech forests, known as Fagetum, which gave the village its name. The areas near the village are mainly populated by chestnut trees, Quercus pubescens, and Ostrya carpinifolia.
The summits of the surrounding hills are covered with heather and moorland, which have great environmental value and are subject to particular protection. This habitat, along with the associated fauna, has been designated as an SAC (site of community interest) and SPA (special protection area) under the European directives on habitats and birds.
History
According to Emanuele Repetti, the village of Faeto corresponds to that of the castle of Faeto or Faeta mentioned in the diploma granted in 1356 by Emperor Charles IV of Luxembourg to the city of Arezzo. In the 12th century, the area of Faeto and the entire valley of the Gattaio stream belonged to the house of Guicciardo da Loro, of the Ubertini di Soffena. From the sixteenth century, together with Pratovalle, Faeto was under the municipality of Anciolina, contributing to the economy with a mill on the Agna di Pratovalle and olive presses, which were not present at higher altitudes.
Monuments and places of interest
If you intend to visit Faeto, don't miss the Church of Santa Maria Assunta Faeto. It dates back to the late medieval period but was rebuilt in the 18th century. The church, which today belongs to the parish of San Giustino Valdarno, has a simple facade with pilasters and a pediment on top. At the back is the sail bell tower with two small bells. Inside, there is an important altarpiece, the work of Neri di Bicci, which depicts the Assumption of the Virgin with St. Fabian, St. Sebastian, St. Thomas, Angels, and the patron. This altarpiece, made between 1475 and 1485 for the church of Traiana dedicated precisely to St. Fabian and St. Sebastian, was transferred to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta probably at the beginning of the 18th century and restored between 2008 and 2011.
The building adjacent to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta was the ancient rectory. Until the 1970s, it was regularly used and from that date, the slow abandonment of the building began. The parish of Santa Maria in Faeto was an autonomous parish until 1974 and was merged with the parish of Santa Lucia in Pratovalle "aeque principaliter."
Discovering the surrounding nature
If you are passionate about mountain hiking or walking immersed in nature, Faeto is an excellent destination. The presence of beech forests and other tree species allows for long walks among the surrounding hills and breathtaking views.
If you're lucky, you might also have the opportunity to spot some typical animal species of the area like foxes, wild boars, deer and badgers. However, remember to respect the environment around you and not disturb the animals that live in the area.
What to do in Faeto
History and art lovers can visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta with its medieval and Tuscan Renaissance details.
Nature lovers, on the other hand, can enjoy long walks through the woods or explore the surrounding hills on a mountain bike. There are also locally beaten trekking routes that will take you to discover fascinating natural sites and unique views.
Also, in the surrounding area of Faeto, there are other tourist attractions not to be missed, such as the castle and historic center of Loro Ciuffenna, the famous waterfall of the Borro Mill, and the medieval village of Civitella in Val di Chiana.
Conclusion
Faeto is a charming village located on the Tuscan hills that nature and historical and artistic heritage enthusiasts cannot miss. From breathtaking views to historical and cultural richness, Faeto and its surrounding nature are an ideal destination for those who want to spend a vacation of relaxation and discovery.
