Castiglione di Garfagnana
Welcome to Castiglione di Garfagnana
Hello everyone and welcome to the small yet charming town of Castiglione di Garfagnana, located in the Garfagnana region in the province of Lucca, Tuscany.
Physical geography
Our town is surrounded by nature and hosts various species of flora such as chestnuts, conifers, and beech trees. The area is crossed by numerous trails that offer a unique tourist-environmental experience. Castiglione di Garfagnana is located along the Passo delle Radici provincial road, about 6 km from the headquarters of the Union of the Municipalities of Garfagnana, Castelnuovo di Garfagnana. The town is located on an Apennine foothill on the left bank of the Serchio River, at an altitude of 545 m above sea level, but is surrounded by summit Apennine peaks that separate it from the Frignano territory (Modena). The municipal area has an altitude that ranges from 350 m above sea level up to 1700 m above sea level.
History
Foundation
Our town has an interesting history dating back to the period of Roman domination when the construction of Castrum Leonis ("Castle of the Lion") was highly regarded for its control position over the road that led to the San Pellegrino Pass, one of the easiest crossings of the Apennines. The town was often forced to defend itself from numerous sieges due to its strategic location. In the fifteenth century, Lucca found itself at war with Florence, and the Florentines tried to seize Garfagnana; many Garfagnana lands, in order to escape the continuous plunder and armed clashes between the two factions, sought protection from the Marquess of Ferrara, Niccolò III d'Este. The Florentines in Castiglione, loyal to Lucca, saw an easy prey, and in 1429 with an army of 150 knights and as many infantrymen, they placed the town under siege. The people of Castiglione didn't lose heart, resisted, and the Florentines were forced to face the battle. Help came from Bernardino Ubaldino della Carda's reinforcements, but by a twist of fate, a conspiracy in Lucca put an end to the Lordship of Paolo Guinigi, who ruled the city. The people of Castiglione were forced to swear loyalty to their new masters.
Tourist attractions
Castiglione di Garfagnana has a series of tourist attractions that tell its history and our culture. In the medieval citadel, you can visit the Migration Museum, which retraces the emigration of our fellow citizens to America and other countries. Furthermore, in the heart of the town, there is the Church of San Michele, dating back to the twelfth century, which houses a Bernardino del Castelletto fresco from 1513. In the countryside, about 2 km from the historic center, is Villa Garzoni, an example of Palladian Renaissance architecture. The villa's garden is unique in that you can admire some of the rarest and most exotic plants, including a boxwood maze and the famous butterfly waterfalls.
Traditional cuisine
Our traditional cuisine is equally impressive. Our specialty is fried polenta, served with local cheeses like Pecorino Toscano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and ricotta. Walnut bread is another must-try in our cuisine, along with generous portions of Prague ham and local salami. Let's not forget a delicious potato focaccia, one of our local delicacies that you must try!
Annual events
There is no shortage of annual events in Castiglione. Our most famous event is the Feast of San Michele, held every year on September 29. The religious procession begins in the church and heads to the medieval citadel, where theater and musical performances are held. Additionally, the town hosts an annual polenta festival and a local crafts market that takes place every Sunday morning.
We hope your stay in Castiglione di Garfagnana is enjoyable and close to our people and culture. Come visit us!
