ROUTES VALDIBISENZIO – history along the river

(Prato, Tuscany, Italy)

The Bisenzio valley, deeply enclosed in the Appennines, is not only an industrial district, vowed to textile production: in the past, it was an important line of communication, a natural way of passage between Tuscany and northern Italy. Wayfarers, countrymen, monks and lords passed through this territory during the centuries. Fortresses and abbeys have been built in the Middle Ages by the side of the river, as everlasting memory of powerful men and of the practice of faith.

ROUTE 1 “LA ROCCA CERBAIA”
Meeting point at “Pasticceria Ciolini” in Carmignanello (Cantagallo, Prato)

Walk to the fortress of Cerbaia along the ancient path and through the medieval bridge.

Visit to the fortress
An ancient stronghold, look-out post and defensive place, property of Alberti family, even mentioned by Dante in the “Divina Commedia” (Inf. XXXII, 55)
(The fortress is approachable only on foot, covering a path with some steep slope).

ROUTE 2 “LA ROCCA DI VERNIO”
Meeting point in front of the town hall of S. Quirico di Vernio.

Walk along an ancient path from the village of S. Quirico di Vernio towards the fortress.

Visit to the fortress
This manor-house is situated in a favourable position to control the surrounding territory. It was built at the beginning of the 11th century a.D. by the Cadolingi count family; later on, the property was transferred to Alberti family and then to Bardi family. The original building has been restored during the centuries.
(The fortress is also approachable by car).

ROUTE 3 “LA BADIA DI VAIANO”
Meeting point in front of the town hall of Vaiano

The church of S. Salvatore in Vaiano was already mentioned in a document of 1.057, as seat of a monastic community. Recently, archaeologic excavations have brought to light – beneath the walls of 11th-12th century a.D. – the remains of a building and numerous graves, dating back between 700 and 900 a.D. and belonging to the Longobard culture. It is possible to visit the local museum, accessible from the adjacent cloister.

INFORMATION
Sport clothes are raccomended.

The visit will take place every day by appointment, only for groups (Min. 6 people-Max. 25 people). Please call: 380 6851152

Transfers to and from the meeting points are non included.

COSTS AND LENGTH
Routes “La Rocca Cerbaia”
6 €/person – length: 3 hours

Route “La Rocca di Vernio” and “La Badia di Vaiano”
6 €/person – lenght: 2 hours.

ARCHAEOLOGY AT CARMIGNANO

(Prato, Tuscany, Italy)

Important evidences of our past have been preserved by the charming hills of Carmignano, not far from Florence (20 km); expert operators will guide visitors to discovery of the treasures of this territory.

The Route includes: ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF ARTIMINO - NECROPOLIS OF PRATO ROSELLO - TUMULUS OF MONTEFORTINI AT COMEANA (see all details)

For info and reservations: 380 6851152