Vergemoli: Churches, History and Boccabùgia

Vergemoli between early local history and festival culture

The existence of Vergemoli is documented by an allivellamento dating from 996. In 1260, San Quirico di Vergemoli was included in a directory of churches and sacred places belonging to the Diocese of Lucca. The earlier date refers to Vergemoli itself; the ecclesiastical entry refers to San Quirico di Vergemoli and the Diocese of Lucca. Both dates fall within the Middle Ages. The year 996 is the earlier of the two historical dates. Culture enthusiasts can explore Vergemoli’s local history alongside the church history of San Quirico di Vergemoli.

Boccabùgia on the first Sunday in August

Boccabùgia is an improvised poetry competition held every year on the first Sunday in August in Vergemoli. The competition is followed by an awards ceremony and a village festival with brass bands, mountain choirs, wine and cake. For travel planning, this single August date provides a fixed point in time for a visit to Vergemoli. The event is therefore part of Vergemoli’s annual cultural cycle. For annual planning, it is not only the month but also the designated first Sunday in August that matters. Anyone including Boccabùgia in their plans should arrange their stay around this specific Sunday.

Churches and sights in the village

The Chiesa di S.Quirico e Giulitta martiri is located at Viale Europa, 55020 Vergemoli LU. Sights in Vergemoli include the Chiesa di San Quirico and the Fontana Bernarda.

Chiesa Oratorio Sant’Antonio in the west

In the west of Vergemoli, the Chiesa Oratorio Sant’Antonio is situated in an impressive woodland landscape at the upper end of the settlement and offers panoramic views. The Chiesa Oratorio Sant’Antonio may date back to the 10th or 11th century. In the past, the Chiesa Oratorio Sant’Antonio served as a place to sleep and a refuge for travellers. The Chiesa Oratorio Sant’Antonio was looked after by the prior and several local residents.

Palazzo Roni and the Roni family

Palazzo Roni is a stately residence in Vergemoli dating from the 16th century. Palazzo Roni belonged to the Roni family, whose wealth was based on an iron monopoly. Palazzo Roni is located near Vergemoli’s parish church. The building period and the history of the Roni family give the residence an economic-historical significance in addition to its architectural importance.

Outdoor activities on the Torrente Levigliese

Parco Avventura Levigliese is a small green oasis on the Torrente Levigliese with equipped areas for outdoor activities. Vergemoli can be reached directly by car, providing a specific travel-planning tip for getting there. Alongside the historic sights, the water adds a different focus.

Further destinations for your travel planning include Careggine, Sillano, Gallicano, Camporgiano, Giuncugnano, Vagli Sotto, Pieve Fosciana and Fornovolasco.

For the overarching travel overview: Lucca.