Travale: Medieval History, Trails and Local Traditions

Travale combines medieval history with a walking route, local culture and a traditional fair. This creates a destination where historical landmarks, events and different ways of exploring the area come together. Topics range from the Carta di Travale and medieval architectural history to geothermal energy and the Corniolo Gigante in the surrounding area.

Historical Traces of Travale

The parchment document known as the “Carta di Travale”, dating from 1158, is also called the “Guaita di Travale” and is kept in the Historical Archive of the Diocese of Volterra. The Carta di Travale is considered one of the earliest records of the Italian language. In Travale’s historic centre, a plaque bears the words “Guaita, guaita male, non mangiai ma’ mezo pane”. The Church of Santi Michele e Silvestro dates from the 14th century. In the Middle Ages, Travale was an important fortress of the Pannocchieschi family. For those interested in culture, the Carta di Travale, the plaque in the historic centre and the Church of Santi Michele e Silvestro are the main highlights. The historical perspective thus extends from an early record of the language and an inscription to sacred architecture and the history of medieval rule.

Exploring on Foot and by Bicycle

The “Trail of the Castles” is a walking route. In the northern part of the Metalliferous Hills Park, it includes Travale among its medieval castles. Those planning to walk this section will be travelling through the northern part of the Metalliferous Hills Park.

The “Gran Tour delle Colline Metallifere” is aimed at visitors who would like to explore the area by bicycle. The tour is approximately 250 kilometres long and includes 4,500 metres of ascent. When planning stages for this cycling tour, both the approximate length of 250 kilometres and the total elevation gain of 4,500 metres should be taken into account in advance before deciding on the individual sections for your itinerary.

Fiera di Travale and Regional Markets

The Fiera di Travale is a century-old fair. It features equestrian shows, a craft market and a market selling typical regional products. The fair combines equestrian shows with a craft market and a market selling typical regional products.

Geothermal Energy and a Monumental Tree

Travale is home to Enel power plants that generate electricity from geothermal energy. The Corniolo Gigante, a monumental tree, stands in the surrounding area of Travale. Travale thus offers more than medieval history and events, also encompassing technological energy production and a connection with nature.

Connection Between Follonica Railway Station and Montieri

After travelling by train to Follonica railway station, you can continue to Montieri by car or bus. This option combines rail and road transport as one element of your travel planning.

Other places in the same area: Gerfalco, Boccheggiano.

For the higher-level travel overview: Montieri.