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Marzalle hills
Once upon a time, noble families had their villas built on the hills in the neighborhood of Pescia. Even the Swiss economist, Jean Claude Sismondi, who deeply loved these lands, found refuge in the villa of Valchiusa. His former dwelling now accommodates the Municipal Library.
Today, these places offer the opportunity to set off for pleasant excursions and discover the lesser known face of Tuscany. The first stop could be the Convent of Colleviti, a five minutes drive from the center of Pescia. It can be easily reached both on foot and by car. The convent was founded in 1496 and its profile can be clearly distinguished even far off in the distance. Departing like a ray from the convent is the hilly road of Marzalle, which is dotted with many splendid villas (Guardatoia, Villa Chiari, Villa Pult) and represents one of the most panoramic routes in this area. Once in Collecchio, you can cross the path called “Via della Fiaba” (Fairytale Road), which begins in Pescia and, after rolling along across several hills, leads to Collodi. Otherwise, you can go on until you reach the quiet, little hamlet of Monte a Pescia.
In the past centuries, Monte a Pescia was considered an holiday’s aristocratic village. Its Romanesque church, where musician Giovanni Pacini is buried (1796-1867), has been well known since the 15th century for its conservation of the relics of a “Holy Thorn” from Christ’s crown.
From Monte a Pescia, passing by the rural villas of Barignano and Cafaggio, along the ancient mule trail leading to Bareglia (formerly a fortress built to watch over the valley below), you can reach Piazza del Palagio (Palace Square), in the very ancient heart of Pescia.
Information
Tourist Office – Pescia |
c/o ex mercato fiori
via F.lli Rosselli,2
Ph. +39 0572 490919
Fax +39 0572 499933 |
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