Castiglione Di Garfagnana

Castiglione Di Garfagnana is a fortified medieval village whose fortress has remained essentially intact. Those looking for accommodation in Tuscany with a clear cultural focus will find history here not only in individual buildings, but in the structure of the village itself. The Rocca, the churches and the view from the Torrione della Brunella form a compact, clearly defined sightseeing program.

Rocca and medieval fortifications

The present structure of the Rocca di Castiglione di Garfagnana dates from the 14th century. At that time, the circuit of walls was extended to a length of 750 meters and a height of 11 to 17 meters. Castiglione di Garfagnana was the most important fortress for defending the border with the Duchy of Modena. This historical function explains the village’s pronounced defensive character, without limiting the visit to a single ruin. Advance registration with the Pro Loco is required for the Rocca. In addition, guided tours of the fortified village, the Church of San Michele and the Rocca can be booked throughout the year. In July and August, this can also be done directly at the information point in the Palazzo Comunale. For your planning, the key distinction is therefore between a guided tour and the required registration for the Rocca.

Churches and local history

The Church of San Michele dates from the 15th century. Inside, there is a panel depicting the Madonna and Child by Giuliano di Simone, dating from 1389. The Church of San Pietro in Castiglione di Garfagnana dates back to the Lombard period and establishes an even earlier historical connection. Together, these two churches reveal different historical layers of the village: its Lombard past, its medieval development and the art of the late 14th century. Another cultural attraction is located in San Pellegrino in Alpe, within the municipality of Castiglione di Garfagnana. This is where the Provincial Ethnographic Museum “Don Luigi Pellegrini” is located, at Via del Voltrone 14.

Viewpoints, traditions and other destination pages

The Parco della Rimembranza provides access to the Torrione della Brunella. From there, you can enjoy an impressive view over the valley. This viewpoint complements the sightseeing tour, which focuses strongly on walls, churches and the history of the fortress, with an open view of the landscape. The “Regalo” is also part of the local tradition. It has taken place without interruption on every first Sunday of the year since January 20, 1631. If this date fits your travel plans, you can experience an explicitly documented event with a long history. Other destination pages that you can access in the destination overview include Gragnanella (Gragnanella), Casone (Casone) and Colle (Colle).

To the main travel overview: Castelnuovo Di Garfagnana.