Strada in Casentino: Stone, History and Art

Strada between Stonecutting Tradition and History

Strada in Casentino is overlooked by the ancient Castello dei Guidi. Together with the ancient Torre dell’Orologio, the castle forms part of the historic silhouette above Strada in Casentino. The development of the town is closely linked to its original function: Strada was established as a marketplace for the Solano Valley near the bridge to Castel San Niccolò. The centuries-old stonecutting tradition also continues to shape the character of the town. It is connected with local pietra serena quarries and the work of numerous stonecutters from the region.

Art and Craftsmanship at the Museo della Pietra Lavorata

A central point of reference for this subject is the Museo della Pietra Lavorata. It is located in the former Salesian college in Strada in Casentino and presents the history, techniques and tools of Strada’s stonecutters. Techniques and tools used in stone craftsmanship are still used today. The museum therefore offers direct access to the tradition that shaped Strada over the centuries, without limiting it to individual buildings.

This focus can also be interesting for families: in summer, the Museo della Pietra Lavorata offers workshops for children on working with stone. The museum has seasonal opening hours in July and August; visits are possible by reservation. Those who wish to plan their stay around these conditions can combine a visit to the museum with its seasonal offerings.

Squares, Chapels and Romanesque Architecture

The chapels of San Niccolò and del Crocifisso belong to the complex of the ancient Castello dei Guidi. The chapel of del Crocifisso houses a 14th-century Crucifixion fresco from the Florentine school. Another important religious attraction is the Pieve di San Martino a Vado. It stands near the former ford of the Torrente Solano and is the only parish church in Casentino to have preserved its original façade. At the same time, it is considered one of the most significant Romanesque churches in Casentino.

On Piazza Matteotti, the townscape is shaped by the five-naved Logge del Grano, with round arches made of pietra serena and a historic hipped-roof structure. The Cappella della Visitazione contains several works of notable art-historical significance: a panel depicting the “Immacolata Incoronata” by Santi di Tito from 1580, as well as the painting “Vergine con bambino e Santi” by Giovan Francesco Guerrieri, dating from around 1600. In Strada, therefore, the architecture of its squares, sacred art and the history of stoneworking are closely intertwined.

Places to Visit Around Strada

The immediate surroundings of Strada in Casentino include several other historic destinations. Castello di Romena, Castello dei Conti Guidi and Castello di Porciano are located near Strada in Casentino. The Monastero di Camaldoli is also situated in the area. These local connections provide a cultural framework for your travel plans if you wish to take not only Strada itself but also the wider Casentino area into account.

Poggio Ginestrino, Monte Pianellaccio, Croce di Pratomagno and Poggio Stefanieri are also located near Strada in Casentino. These destinations therefore offer additional points of interest for a trip that considers historic places and the wider Casentino area together. You can choose specific focuses according to your interests: stonecutting art and architecture, sacred art, or the connection between Strada and the places and landscape names in the surrounding area.

Choosing Strada as Your Base

When choosing your accommodation in Strada, you can therefore first consider which of these topics are especially important for your trip. A hotel in Strada is a suitable search option for a stay focused on the town’s history, the Museo della Pietra Lavorata, the chapels, Piazza Matteotti and the Pieve di San Martino a Vado. If you also plan to visit destinations in the surrounding area, you should take their geographical connection to Strada in Casentino into account when making your personal selection. The Mostra della Pietra Lavorata, held every two years towards the end of August, can be a special occasion: it showcases works by artists and masters of stonecutting and takes place in Strada in Casentino.

More Places for Your Regional Itinerary

If you wish to expand your trip through the region, you can also include Anghiari, Duddova, Sansepolcro, Monterchi, Monte San Savino, Rigo, Arezzo and Poppi in your further selection.

To the higher-level travel overview: Arezzo.