Marcialla
Marcialla: A Historic Village Among the Tuscan Valleys
Marcialla is a small hamlet that belongs to the municipalities of Certaldo and Barberino Tavarnelle. It is situated between the valleys of Val d'Elsa and Val di Pesa. The village has a long history behind it, which saw it grow in strategic importance thanks to its location that allowed it to control both valleys.
History of the Village
The village of Marcialla originated as a market town for Pogni, but after its destruction in 1181, it became an autonomous municipality under the rule of Florence. Marcialla was an important checkpoint for many centuries until its strategic function lost its importance. Today, Marcialla is a place of tourist interest for its history and the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
Places of Interest
Marcialla hosts some religious buildings and palaces of great historical and architectural interest. Among the main places to visit are:
Religious Buildings
The Church of San Lorenzo in Vigliano, with its Romanesque origins, was expanded in 1928. The Church of Santa Maria, dating from the 12th century, was rebuilt in the 16th century and houses some interesting works of art.
Palaces
The Bargagli Stoffi Palace, located in the western part of the main square of Marcialla, was the center of social life in the village. It is now a rustic dwelling of the Bargagli Stoffi marquises. Villa Capponi is an urban villa owned by the Giannozzi family and located on the main square of Marcialla. Inside, you can admire a beautiful barrel-vaulted room with knife-edge bricks. It currently houses a Bed & Breakfast.
Theatres
The Regina Margherita Theatre in Barberino Val d'Elsa is a cultural point of interest in the surrounding area.
Sports
The Matteotti Trophy, a national classic cycling race reserved for Elite and Under-23 amateur athletes, takes place every year in Marcialla. The first edition dates back to 1952, and over the years, significant victories by cyclists such as Gastone Nencini, future "Leone del Mugello," Riccardo Magrini, Rolf Sørensen, Andrea Chiurato, Luca Scinto, and Sacha Modolo have been registered. The race route passes through the municipalities of Barberino Tavarnelle, San Casciano in Val di Pesa, Montespertoli, Certaldo, and Poggibonsi.
Conclusions
Marcialla is a historic hamlet immersed in the beauty of the Tuscan hills. Its religious buildings and palaces are expressions of the art and architecture that characterize Tuscany. The Matteotti Trophy offers an unmissable opportunity for cycling enthusiasts. The combination of these elements makes Marcialla a place of great tourist interest.
