Cutigliano: History, Chestnut Trails and Doganaccia

Cutigliano combines historic landmarks, paths through ancient chestnut forests and activities in the Doganaccia ski resort. For planning purposes, these can be considered as distinct focuses: cultural sightseeing, experiences in nature and winter sports.

History in the Townscape

The Chiesa di San Bartolomeo was under the jurisdiction of the Pieve of Lizzano and has been documented in the records of pastoral visitations since 1373. In 1419, it was elevated to the status of a pieve. At the same time, the church is located immediately outside the built-up area of Cutigliano. The Chiesa della Madonna di Piazza is just a few steps from Cutigliano’s town hall square.

The Palazzo dei Capitani della Montagna was built in 1377 as the seat of the Capitano della Montagna, an official sent by Florence to administer the Montagna Pistoiese. Around 95 coats of arms made of stone and polychrome terracotta can be seen on the palazzo; they date from 1444 to 1742. Opposite stands a 15th-century loggia. It was used for notarising legal deeds and for the administration of justice by the Capitano.

Paths through Chestnut Forests and to the Lake

Two routes offer different insights into the landscape. The Itinerario degli Albinelli route leads from Cutigliano approximately 2 kilometres towards Melo. In the Le Cavi area, after a further approximately 400 metres on an asphalt road, the route continues on foot along an unpaved path to Rivoreta. The same route passes through centuries-old chestnut forests and by the old mills on the Rio dell’Arsiccio. The route to Lago Scaffaiolo leads to a natural lake at an altitude of 1,775 metres in the northern Apennines, considered one of the particularly impressive small lakes in this mountain range.

Doganaccia for Winter Days

Winter also has a clear point of reference in Cutigliano. The cable car connects the village of Cutigliano with the Doganaccia ski resort; it is 2,988 metres long and covers an elevation difference of 785 metres. The ski resort has around 15 kilometres of slopes, which are particularly suitable for beginners. Three slopes are illuminated for night skiing. Facilities and activities include equipment hire, ski lessons, excursions and snowshoe hikes.

Chestnut Culture in October

The Rassegna della Castanicoltura complements the town and landscape themes with the culture of the chestnut. The event was established in 2002 and takes place on the last weekend of October. The programme includes guided tours of operating chestnut drying huts in the municipality, as well as tastings of chestnuts and products made from sweet chestnut flour.

Putting Culture, Trails and Doganaccia into Context

When choosing a hotel or other accommodation in Cutigliano, your personal focus can help structure your plans: historic sites and squares stand alongside the routes to Rivoreta and Lago Scaffaiolo, as well as Doganaccia’s winter activities. The themes therefore range from architecture and local history to chestnut culture, hiking and skiing.

For further orientation within the destination area, you can also visit Piano Degli Ontani and Pian Di Novello.

For the higher-level travel overview: Pistoia.

More destinations

Other places within the same destination:

Piteglio, Massa E Cozzile, Lizzanello, Stiappa, Agliana, Marliana.