Larciano
Larciano: a Tuscan comune
Larciano is a Tuscan comune located in the province of Pistoia, about 50 km west of Florence and 15 km south of Pistoia. The comune has a population of 6,291 inhabitants and the municipal seat is located in the hamlet of San Rocco di Larciano.
Physical geography
The comune of Larciano is located in Valdinievole, on the western slopes of the Montalbano mountain range and on the borders of the Padule di Fucecchio swamp. Larciano's climate is classified as Zone D and has an average atmospheric diffusivity of 1,694 degrees per day, according to measurements taken by IBIMET-CNR in 2002.
History
The name of Larciano derives from Larthial, the possessive genitive of the masculine name Larth, which was the name of an Etruscan warrior. Larth's tomb was discovered in Tarquinia and dates back to 340 BC, while the name Larciano was first documented in 941 as Arsianus. Over time, the name was modified until it became the current one. There are also other hypotheses about the comune's name, such as one suggesting that it originates from a praedium (farm) donated to a Roman soldier for his bravery, or one proposing that the toponym derives from the name of a type of tree, the larch.
Larciano's history focuses on Larciano Castle. In the 10th century, Larciano was the lordship of the Guidi counts, who donated it to the cathedral and bishop of Pistoia. In 1225, the comune was sold by the sons of Count Guido Guerra of Modigliana to the Comune of Pistoia for 6,000 lire. Larciano's strategic position made it essential for Pistoia's defensive system in the "monti di sotto," the western slope of the Montalbano. In 1302, during the war between Pistoia (Ghibelline) and Florence and Lucca (Guelf), Larciano was conquered after the surrender of Serravalle. But in 1310 the town was recovered, along with other territories lost by Pistoia, upon payment of 10,000 gold florins. In 1401, Larciano submitted to Florence with all its territory and became the seat of one of the four podesterie in which the Pistoian territory was organized. Under the institutional framework of the Medici state, Larciano and Serravalle were merged into a single podesteria. In 1772, Serravalle became the only seat of the podesteria, while in 1774 a community was created comprising Larciano and Lamporecchio.
Culture
Larciano is renowned for its production of oil and wine. In particular, the locally produced wine is the Chianti Montalbano DOCG. The comune of Larciano also has several historical and artistic monuments of interest, such as the Church of San Rocco di Larciano, the Church of Santa Maria del Giglio in Sant'Ansano, Larciano Castle, and Villa Puccini.
Church of San Rocco di Larciano
The Church of San Rocco di Larciano dates back to the 13th century and was restored in the 17th century. The church is characterized by the presence of 15th-century frescoes and a Romanesque bell tower.
Church of Santa Maria del Giglio in Sant'Ansano
The Church of Santa Maria del Giglio in Sant'Ansano dates back to the 13th century but was restored in the 17th century. The church has a three-naved interior and preserves 15th-century frescoes.
Larciano Castle
Larciano Castle dates back to the 10th century and was renovated in the 14th century. The castle is open to the public and has also been used as a location for the television series "I Medici".
Villa Puccini
Villa Puccini dates back to the 17th century and was built as a summer residence for the Puccini family of Florence. The villa has a large Italian garden and has also been used as a location for the film "Veloce come il vento".
Local cuisine
Larciano's local cuisine includes some typical Tuscan specialties, such as ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and bistecca alla Fiorentina. The comune is also famous for its production of oil and wine, which can be tasted in one of the many local wineries.
Events
Larciano has several events held throughout the year, particularly related to wine and food. Some of the most significant events are the Larciano Wine Festival, which is held on the third weekend in September, and the Bistecca Fair, which takes place in August.
Conclusions
Larciano is a Tuscan comune with an ancient history and a culture rich in historical and artistic monuments. The comune is also famous for its production of oil and wine and has a local cuisine based on typical dishes of the Tuscan region. Larciano hosts several events throughout the year, particularly related to wine and food, making this destination a perfect place to visit and enjoy the region's delicacies.
