La Valleriana, (Valley of the River, probable origin of the name) is a large area north of Pescia, better known as the Pesciatina Switzerland. A valley dominated by chestnut woods, trails, and evergreen hills of rare beauty; and it is no surprise that the Genevan Sismondi, an exile who arrived in Pescia at the end of the 18th century, fell in love with this corner of paradise that reminded him of his homeland. In Valleriana, nature and history are intertwined inseparably, as evidenced by the splendid medieval villages, called the ten “castella” (Pietrabuona, Medicina, Fibbialla, Aramo, S.Quirico, Castelvecchio, Stiappa, Pontito, Sorana, Vellano) perfectly preserved.
They are small fortified jewels, whose structure dating back to the Middle Ages justified their own defense and that of the valley, which was subject to incursions and wars. It is priceless to walk through the steep and narrow streets of Pontito (750 meters above sea level), the highest castle, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley; or to stroll through the characteristic alleys of San Quirico, one of the most beautiful places, which hosts an interesting Farmers’ Museum.
Often overlooked by mass tourism, these villages deserve to be rediscovered, not only for their beauty but also for their rich artistic heritage, rescued from neglect and abandonment thanks to the will of the inhabitants.
Like the precious Oratory of the Most Holy Rosary, in Castelvecchio, entirely decorated with stories of the Virgin and Christ, by an unknown author and dating around the 16th century, a treasure trove of rare beauty. Not far away, the Parish Church of Saints Ansano and Thomas, of Lombard origin, is the oldest religious monument in Valleriana. Documented since the 9th century and repeatedly remodeled, it has a suggestive crypt and a pediment decorated with “mysterious” figures, not yet deciphered.
Among the castella and along the valleys, there are also many connecting paths, with different types of routes, largely marked by the C.A.I. for a total of over 150 km. Rich in waters and centuries-old woods, this territory is perfect for those who love Nature and slow tourism, the ideal place for trekking and mountain bike enthusiasts, who can explore the Pistoiese and Lucchese Apennine slopes, reach the Apuan Alps, and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Along the bank of the Pescia River, on the other hand, unfolds a route accessible to everyone; it is 30 km broken into stages, on foot or by bicycle, reaching the Natural Reserve of the Padule del Fucecchio.
This vast protected area (about 1800 hectares), divided between the Province of Pistoia and the Province of Florence, is the largest inland swamp in Italy, where you can observe flora and fauna, immersed in silence. We recommend relying on local guides, particularly knowledgeable and passionate. The park has a well-equipped museum and lends itself to pleasant day hikes, for the joy of adults and children.
