La Sterza
La Sterza: a geographical fraction in Tuscany
La Sterza is a fraction located in the province of Pisa, in Tuscany. It is situated in the hinterland of Pisa, along the course of the Era river and crossed by the Sterza stream, from which it takes its name. La Sterza is the southernmost fraction of the municipality of Terricciola and the northernmost one of the municipality of Lajatico. The locality has a maximum altitude of 74 meters above sea level in the Lajatico part and 65 meters in the Terricciola portion. The fraction also has two artificial ponds.
The history of La Sterza
The history of the territory of La Sterza is linked to the village and castle of Pava, an ancient high-medieval village located on a hill a few meters from the town. The castle passed from the Raginieri to the Pannocchieschi in 1186, to the bishop of Volterra Ranieri in 1284, to the Republic of Florence in 1362, and finally to the Republic of Pisa in 1364, then starting a slow decline until its total abandonment already in the 15th century. Here was located an important parish church, the church of San Giovanni, known since 1109, which at the time of the Volterrano Synod of 1356 had under its jurisdiction five parish churches. What remains of this village is an ancient farmhouse today the headquarters of a farm and agriturismo. The modern town developed starting from the 19th century on the slopes of the hill near the bridge over the Sterza stream and near the main communication routes of the hinterland of Pisa.
La Sterza today
The fraction of La Sterza presents itself as a modern agricultural village, mainly characterized by artisan and commercial activities. It is situated on the state road 439 Sarzanese Valdera and represents an important nodal road point as from here also branches off the provincial road 14 of Miemo and the provincial road 45 of Lajatico.
Andrea Bocelli, a celebrity from La Sterza
Andrea Bocelli, one of the most famous Italian operatic singers, was born in the fraction of La Sterza on September 22, 1958. Growing up in a family of farmers, Bocelli began playing the piano as a child and, despite his blindness, started singing in public at the age of 18. Throughout his career, the tenor has sold over 80 million records worldwide, winning the hearts of millions of people thanks to his wonderful musical interpretations.
The beauty of the territory of La Sterza
The beauty of La Sterza and its surroundings attracts many tourists every year. Some of the most famous tourist attractions in the area include the tower of Lajatico, the Silence Theatre and the National Park of Metalliferous Hills. La Sterza is also the ideal starting point for exploring the beautiful natural landscapes of the Valdera and the picturesque medieval villages of Tuscany.
In conclusion, La Sterza represents a fraction of notable historical and cultural interest, where nature and agricultural activities join artistic and musical wonders. A visit to La Sterza can only offer an unforgettable experience, immersed in a breathtaking panorama and a culture that has no equal.
