Montevettolini: Hilltop Village Between History and Hiking Trails

Montevettolini is a village situated on a ridge on the northwestern slopes of Montalbano, at an elevation of 187 metres above sea level. Here, the setting combines historic buildings, religious art and paths through Mediterranean vegetation. Those wishing to combine culture and activity on a trip to Italy can link the village’s history with the CAI trails and the views along them.

Hiking between Valdinievole and Montalbano

The CAI-marked trekking routes lead from the hill of Montevettolini along the connections between the castles of Valdinievole and Montalbano. Around Montevettolini, CAI trails pass through lush Mediterranean vegetation, offering views over the valley and towards the Apennines. A CAI hike through Montevettolini includes a visit to the Church of Santi Michele e Lorenzo and a walk through the village’s characteristic lanes. When planning such a circuit, both the connections between the castles and the specific sights in Montevettolini, as well as the views, therefore play a role.

Castle, Gate and Historic Village Views

The Castle of Montevettolini was founded around the 12th century. The Tor dei Barbacci forms part of the village’s history. It is the only historic gate in Montevettolini that has been completely preserved. Earlier names were Porta del Vicino and Porta del Malvicino.

Churches and Art

The religious heritage includes the Church of Santi Michele Arcangelo e Lorenzo Martire, a place of worship of ancient origin that probably dates back to the 13th century. Its present appearance is the result of a renovation led by Vittorio Anastagi from 1733 onwards. In the Oratorio della Madonna della Neve, Montevettolini preserves a fresco of the Madonna with Child and Saints. The work is attributed to a 15th-century master close to Gentile da Fabriano. East of Montevettolini, the oratory stands at a fork in the road. Those wishing to combine religious architectural history and painting can include the church and the oratory in a separate tour of the village.

The Villa Medicea di Montevettolini was built after 1597 on the commission of Ferdinando I de’ Medici. A Villa Medicea in the Monsummano Terme area was also built after 1597 on the commission of Ferdinando I. Both building commissions took place after 1597 under the same patron.

Annual Festivals

The Processione del Gesù Morto takes place in Montevettolini on Good Friday every three years. It can be traced back to the 16th century and recreates the Stations of the Passion of Christ and the ascent to Calvary. In August, the Festa della Madonna della Neve is celebrated at the Oratorio della Madonna della Neve. The costumed Processione del Ringraziamento also takes place in Montevettolini on the Tuesday after Easter. The costumed Processione del Ringraziamento has a different format from the Passion procession on Good Friday.

More places for planning your trip: Nievole, Montecatini Alto.

For the overview of the wider area: Montecatini Terme.