Casciana: Churches, Local History and Trails

Elevation and Trekking Route

Casciana is located in the Alta Garfagnana at an elevation of 648 m. From Casciana, a trekking route leads via Verrucolette to Gramolazzo, following a ridge before descending to Lago di Gramolazzo. The route is approximately 7 km long and has only minor changes in elevation. When planning the day, the approximate 7 km distance and the small elevation gain provide specific route information. The ridge and the subsequent descent to the lake determine the order of the route.

The trekking program included a guided tour of the Chiesa Vecchia and the Museo dell’Identità e della Memoria. It also included activities related to traditional crafts and a visit to the park by the lake.

The “Camporgiano – Casciana – Lago di Gramolazzo – Gorfigliano – Roggio – Camporgiano” mountain bike route is an easy circular tour around Camporgiano. It runs along paths and forest roads. The starting points differ depending on the route chosen: the trekking route begins in Casciana, while the mountain bike circuit starts and ends in Camporgiano.

Mela Casciana and MaMa

Mela Casciana is a traditional apple variety from the Garfagnana. Its shape is round and slightly flattened. The skin is red with greenish-yellow stripes.

The MaMa bar and grocery store in Casciana was inaugurated. MaMa in Casciana has a bar offering breakfast, meals or drinks. The facilities also include toilets accessible to everyone.

Historic Traces in Casciana

The entrance gate to Casciana is a surviving remnant of the former walls that once surrounded the village. A stone arch marks the former ancient entrance to Casciana’s historic center.

The parish church of San Tommaso Apostolo is located on the road to Cascianella. Construction of the new San Tommaso church building began in 1931. San Tommaso in Casciana was granted the title of a priory in 1944.

Inside San Tommaso, there is 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. The side altar was transferred from the former church.

The place name Casciana may have Roman origins and derive from “Praedia Cassiana.” A lease agreement issued by Corrado, Bishop of Lucca, in 939 mentions Casciana.

Before 1565, baptisms in Casciana were performed in the church of Santa Maria Assunta in Vitoio. Casciana’s bell tower probably served as a watchtower.

Road Connection to Piazza al Serchio

A small road leads north from Casciana toward Piazza al Serchio and crosses the Serchio on a small bridge. The northward direction and the small bridge can serve as reference points for finding your way along this connection.

Other local destinations: Filicaia.

For the overview of the wider area: Camporgiano.