Between castles and fortifications

Ancient evidence in the borderland between the Republics of Lucca and Pisa

Lucca trek map of the routes between castles and fortifications, of the Romanesque itinerary and of the aqueduct route

Immersed in a suggestive natural setting at the gates of Lucca, on the border between two historic cities, a land of ancient rivalries, ancient fortifications stand out among the hills or make their way through the vegetation, which are not only witnesses of a thousand-year history, but also majestic architectural icons embraced by the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Post in defense of their respective historical republics, there are numerous towers and fortresses scattered across the hills, built with the aim of controlling the territory. The evocative Nozzano Castle, an outpost built on the south-western border to counter attacks from Pisa, in particular from Ripafratta, a fortified village of medieval origin overlooking the Serchio, is one of the best preserved examples.

In the woods and on the slopes of Monte Pisano you can discover the fascinating ruins of Castelpasserino, a stronghold destroyed during the Middle Ages, and the Eagle Tower or Sawn-off tower.