Casciana: History and Trails in the Alta Garfagnana

Casciana lies in the Alta Garfagnana at an altitude of 648 m. The village is particularly defined by the combination of trails, sacred architecture and traces of a long local history: the entrance gate is a preserved remnant of the former walls, a stone arch marks the former ancient access to the historic village centre, and the bell tower probably served as a watchtower.

Between mountain ridges and Lago di Gramolazzo

A trekking route begins in Casciana and ends in Gramolazzo. The route via Verrucolette follows a mountain ridge and then descends to Lago di Gramolazzo. At around 7 km in length and with only minor differences in elevation, it can be incorporated into your plans as a manageable hiking stage.

The mountain bike route Camporgiano – Casciana – Lago di Gramolazzo – Gorfigliano – Roggio – Camporgiano is an easy loop around Camporgiano along paths and forest roads. A trekking programme also included a guided visit to the Chiesa Vecchia and the Museo dell’Identità e della Memoria, activities relating to traditional crafts, and a visit to the park by the lake.

Church and Traces of the Village

The history of the name and written records also reaches far back. The place name Casciana may have Roman origins and derive from “Praedia Cassiana”. Casciana is also mentioned in a lease agreement issued by Corrado, Bishop of Lucca, in 939. Before 1565, baptisms in Casciana were performed at the Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Vitoio.

The parish church of San Tommaso Apostolo stands on the road to Cascianella. Construction of the new church building began in 1931; in 1944, San Tommaso in Casciana was granted the status of a priory. Inside, the church has a vaulted ceiling decorated with frescoes by the painter Vasco Cavani. The side altar has a carved and painted wooden upper section dating from 1627 and was transferred from the former church.

Practical Orientation and Local Connections

A small road leads north from Casciana towards Piazza al Serchio and crosses the Serchio on a small bridge. At MaMa, there is a bar offering breakfast, meals or drinks; the toilets are open to everyone. This means that, in addition to its cultural and historical points of interest, the village offers a practical place to take a break during the day.

Mela Casciana is a traditional apple variety from the Garfagnana. It has a rounded, flattened shape and red skin with green-yellow stripes. Together with the local history, the Church of San Tommaso and the trails, Casciana offers several ways to plan your trip: you can explore the village on foot, by mountain bike or through its architectural and historical traces.

Further information about Filicaia.

Camporgiano