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CASTELNUOVO GARFAGNANA
Castelnuovo lies in the heart of the Garfagnana, and has
always been its nerve-centre. In this strategic site of the valley,
at the confluence of the rivers Serchio and Turrite, you find all
that you might need such as offices, shops and institutions but
also a lot of history.
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first documentation of Castelnuovo Garfagnana dates back to 740, during
the Longobard period, while in the 14th century the city was already
an important transportation hub in the territory dominated by Lucca.
In 1430 the people of Castelnuovo rebelled against Lucca and were
subdued voluntary by the House of Este that then could control the
whole heart of the Garfagnana. The main buildings come from this period:
the Duomo, the Rocca, the Convento dei Cappuccini and the marvellous
fortress of Monte Albano.
The Castello di Castelnuovo, from the 13th century, changed
faces several times during the centuries and today features a façade
from the 17th century. Also visit the Duomo called ai Santi Pietro
e Paolo, which was built in the 16th century over the ruins of Romanesque
church. Here you find the a marvellous altar-piece in terracotta by
the della Robbia school representing Saint Joseph.On the hill in front
of Castelnuovo you ought to visit the Fortezza di Monte Alfonso, built
by the House of Este at the end of the 16th century. The imposing
boundary wall, over 1 km long, still features seven baluards and some
buildings inside.
In order to remember Ludovico Ariosto, who in the XVI century
was sent to Castelnuovo as the governor of the Garfagnana, the municipality
has carried out an itinerary called the "Sentiero dell'Ariosto".
The path goes around terrace vineyards and cottages along the wall
to the entrance of the Fortezza. From here you descend towards the
old town of Castelnuovo along the equipped running path. It ought
to be said that though today the population of Castelnuovo pays tribute
to Ariosto, this man never loved the Garfagnana, considering it "the
land of wolves and bandits". Used to the lively and stimulating
climate of Ferrara, far from its beloved, not very capable to handle
the pirates' raids, Ariosto just wished to leave as soon as possible.
Castelnuovo has deep traditions, where the folklore is expressed
during the local festivals. Spring is dedicated to Agriambiente, an
exhibition-market for the economy, nature and environment. The summer
begins with the Patron's Day, the 29th of June, followed by the cow
market, the Garfagnana expo, photo exhibitions, choral festivals and
literature prizes. To end the Fiera della Donna (Women's festival)
with several days of local products and entertainment.
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