Museo delle Statue Stele - Pontremoli
Distance from Podere Conti: 15 minutes’ drive
Housed in the Piagnaro Castle of Pontremoli, the Museo delle Statue Stele showcases a collection of ancient stone sculptures unique to the Lunigiana region. These impressive statues date back to the 3rd millennium B.C. through to the Etruscan era.
Museums
Discover the hidden gems of Lunigiana’s lesser-known museums and archeological sites which offer an unparalleled glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this ancient land.
Museo Etnografico della Lunigiana - Villafranca
Distance from Podere Conti: 20 minutes’’ drive
This small museum in the historical centre of Villafranca houses a historic collection of artefacts, tools and everyday objects reflecting the culture, customs and traditions of the Lunigiana population. Visitors can see exhibits of traditional clothing and jewellery, as well as ancient crafts and trades.
Luni National Archaeological Museum - Luni
Distance from Podere Conti: 30 minutes’ drive
The Luni National Archaeological Museum is dedicated to showcasing artefacts and remains from the ancient roman city of Lunae near the ancient mouth of the river Magra. The museum features numerous Etruscan and Roman artefacts, including mosaics, and also features displays of various archaeological digs including the amphitheatre and grand temple.
Museums
Discover the hidden gems of Lunigiana’s lesser-known museums and archeological sites which offer an unparalleled glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this ancient land.
Castello del Piagnaro - Pontremoli
Distance from Podere Conti: 10 minutes’ drive
Dominating the skyline of our local town of Pontremoli, Castello del Piagnaro, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s feudal past. One of two castles in the town, the Piagnaro castle forms part of the Duchy Castles of Parma & Piacenza and also houses the Museo delle Statue Stele mentioned above. The castle is a popular attraction with history buffs and visitors interested in the cultural heritage of the region.
Castles
Lunigiana is often referred to as the "Land of a Hundred Castles", some still lived in today but others left to ruin. Here is a selection of those we recommend visiting.
Castello Malaspina - Fosdinovo
Distance from Podere Conti: 30 minutes’ drive
One of the largest and most impressive castles in the region, the Castello Malaspina is a must-see. Originally built in the 12th century, the castle has been beautifully restored and now houses a museum and art gallery, as well as hosting a variety of cultural events throughout the year.
Fortezza della Brunella – Aulla
Distance from Podere Conti: 20 minutes’ drive
The Fortezza della Brunella is an impressive mediaeval fortress built in the 16th century. It now houses the Lunigiana Natural History Museum, showcasing the geological and botanical diversity of the region. It was also formerly the home of English artist Aubrey Waterfield, as written about in his daughter's novel "A Tuscan Childhood".
Castles
Lunigiana is often referred to as the "Land of a Hundred Castles", some still lived in today but others left to ruin. Here is a selection of those we recommend visiting.
Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista - Dobbiana
Distance from Podere Conti: 20 minutes’ walk
With origins dating back to the 13th century, our little mountain church on the Via di Volta Santa, features a baroque interior and houses a historic crucifix dating back to the crusade.
Churches
As a historical frontier for the Vatican, Lunigiana boasts more churches per capita than any other region, with most welcoming visitors with open doors. Here are some of the noteworthy local churches that are definitely worth a visit. Pontremoli has a number of extraordinarily beautiful churches, including the Chiesa di San Francesco which is a stunning example of Gothic architecture,
Duomo di Pontremoli - Pontremoli
Distance from Podere Conti: 15 minutes’ drive
Pontremoli Cathedral was constructed from 1633 as a dedication to Madonna del Popolo, after the locals vowed to honour the Virgin Mary for surviving two infestations of the plague. The late baroque interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes and artwork, including a mediaeval statue of the Madonna di Popolo and several paintings in her honour.
Pieve di Sorano - Filattiera
Distance from Podere Conti: 15 minutes’ drive
The parish church of Santo Stefano of Sorano in Filattiera is one of the most important Romanesque churches in the province of Massa Carrara. Mentioned in several important documents of the Diocese of Luni dating back to the 11th century, the Pieve enjoyed its heyday until the fourteenth century, when it began to be abandoned and was gradually converted into a cemetery chapel. The church has undergone several restorations over the centuries and is still an active place of worship and open to visitors who want to admire its historical and artistic value.
Churches
As a historical frontier for the Vatican, Lunigiana boasts more churches per capita than any other region, with most welcoming visitors with open doors. Here are some of the noteworthy local churches that are definitely worth a visit. Pontremoli has a number of extraordinarily beautiful churches, including the Chiesa di San Francesco which is a stunning example of Gothic architecture,
Whilst Italy is renowned for its vast array of museums, castles and churches
EXPLORE LUNIGIANA’S MUSEUMS, CASTLES AND CHURCHES
many lesser known sites within easy reach of Podere Conti are well worth exploring. Here’s our must-visit guide to sites in Lunigiana that offer visitors a fascinating insight into the ancient history and culture of the region.