Lunigiana is a land deeply connected to history. Since Roman times, it has been a passage point between northern and central Italy, thanks to its strategic position between the Po Valley and the Tyrrhenian coast.
During the Middle Ages, the area became even more important with the passage of the Via Francigena, the great pilgrimage route that connected Canterbury to Rome. Along this route, castles, Romanesque churches, and small fortified villages were built.
Even today, the area preserves many traces of this past.
Among the symbols of Lunigiana are its medieval castles, many of which once belonged to the powerful Malaspina family, who ruled much of the region.
Among the most important ones that can be visited:
These fortresses were not only noble residences, but also strategic points for controlling the trade routes that crossed the valley.
Beyond its castles, Lunigiana is also known for its historic villages, often built in stone and surrounded by medieval walls.
Among the most charming are:
Pontremoli
rich in historic buildings and museums
Fivizzano
known as the “Florence of Lunigiana”
Filetto
one of the best-preserved medieval villages in Tuscany
Equi Terme
famous for its caves and natural thermal baths
There are also many other perfectly preserved villages that tell the story of a land rich in history.
Walking through their streets, you can discover historic squares, ancient Romanesque churches, and scenic views that reflect centuries of history.
