Londa
A friend drives to Londa
Welcome to Londa, a Tuscan municipality of approximately 1,800 inhabitants located in the metropolitan city of Florence. In this article, I will take you on a journey to discover this wonderful place, which offers a wide range of landscapes, from the valley to the mountains.
Physical geography
The municipality of Londa covers an area of 59 km² and its altitude varies from 200 to 1480 meters above sea level. It is bordered by Mount Falterona, Mount Cucco, and Mount Massicaia, while the Rincine and Moscia streams pass through it. Its hamlets are Rincine, Fornace, Caiano, Bucigna, Caspriano, Petroio, Rata, Sambucheta, San Leolino, Vicorati, and Vierle. In the historic center, there is an artificial lake used for fishing and leisure activities.
Origin of the name
The name Londa comes from the Sieve River, which flows to the left of the city center.
History
Londa has a long history dating back to the Etruscan populations of the 6th century BC. There are traces of Etruscan settlements throughout the municipality and the famous Londa Stele is evidence of these presences. In the Middle Ages, control of the area passed from the Guidi Counts to the Bardi, who built a series of fortifications and watchtowers. In 1375, the city came under Florentine control, which promoted the development of the area. In 1776, Londa became an autonomous municipality. During the fascist period, Londa was the site of a political murder, and the commemorative stele is still visible today.
What to see in Londa
If you visit Londa, don't miss the opportunity to visit its numerous hamlets. San Leolino has an ancient Romanesque parish church and offers a panoramic view of the area. Rata has a 14th-century castle and a medieval church. Vicorati is a medieval village with an ancient watchtower. La Fornace is named after the ancient brick oven and has an 18th-century church.
The historic center of Londa is dominated by the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, built in the 12th century. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and during religious holidays is a place of pilgrimage.
What to do in Londa
Londa is the perfect place for outdoor sports activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and horse riding. The artificial lake is a place of relaxation where you can practice water sports such as canoeing or windsurfing.
Near Londa, there are also a series of wineries where you can take cellar tours and tastings of local wines.
Conclusions
Londa is a wonderful place that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and outdoor sports. If you love Tuscany, don't miss the opportunity to visit this characteristic municipality and its hamlets.
