Cutigliano
Introduction
Hello everyone! Today we will talk about a beloved tourist destination located in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines: Abetone. This small town, until 2017 autonomous and now part of Abetone Cutigliano, was founded in 1936 and is located at an altitude of . It is surrounded by breathtaking peaks and the Forest of Abetone. In this area, snowfall is frequent between October and May, creating enchanting landscapes but also problems with accessibility.
Physical geography
Abetone is located in the high Val di Lima, near the border with Emilia-Romagna. As the town hall, it was the highest municipality in the region. The area is surrounded by some of the highest peaks in Tuscany, such as Alpe Tre Potenze (), Monte Gomito () and Selletta (). Just northeast of the town is the Libro Aperto (), an imposing and majestic mountain range. The winter climate is very harsh, with frequent snowfall, some of which have remained memorable in the history of the area.
History
Abetone has always been a mountain pass since Roman times. It is said that even Hannibal used this road to enter Etruria. The Claudia Augusta road passed here to reach the Danube. In 1766, the construction of the road that connected the Grand Duchy of Tuscany with the Duchy of Modena and Reggio, crossing the Apennines in the section known as Serrabassa by the Modenese and Boscolungo by the Tuscans, began. The construction of this road gave rise to the Abetone pass, which has since captivated generations of tourists.
Tourist activities
Abetone is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Tuscany, not only in winter for winter sports. Its high position on the surrounding mountains offers a breathtaking panorama and the possibility of hiking through the surrounding forests. The Abetone Boscolungo meteorological station is one of the most important in the area, being used for predicting snowfall and monitoring the climate. In winter, Abetone becomes a paradise for skiers and snowboarders thanks to its ski facilities. Numerous ski competitions, including international championships, are held here every year.
Culture and traditions
Abetone is also an important center for local culture and traditions. Religious festivals are very popular, especially that in honor of the patron saint, St. John the Baptist. But there are also events that celebrate the nature and traditions of the place, such as the chestnut or porcini mushroom festival. Moreover, the area has been the set for numerous films and TV series, including the famous movie by Alessandro Blasetti "La corona di ferro" (The Iron Crown).
Curiosities
Abetone has been the birthplace of some illustrious figures, including Nello Lauredi, a famous Italian cyclist of the 1940s and 1950s. Moreover, on the mountains around Abetone, it is said that the famous treasure of the Guelfs is hidden, a legend that has fascinated generations of curious people. Abetone has also been the crossroads for many mountaineering adventures, such as Renato Casarotto's, a climber who became famous for his climbs in the Himalayas.
Conclusions
This is just a taste of the wonder that is Abetone. This charming and relaxing tourist destination offers unforgettable experiences and surprises in every corner. We hope we have made you want to visit this enchanting place. Don't forget to bring the right equipment for winter activities and to enjoy the wonder of the panorama that Abetone offers.
