In the heart of the Tuscan region, an Italian municipality still preserves the characteristics of a lively historical and artistic past. This is the fascinating municipality of San Gimignano, located in the province of Siena, a dreamy place surrounded by the beauty of gentle hills. An image cannot fully capture the enchantment of this municipality, with its extraordinary profile dominated by medieval towers that soar towards the sky. In fact, these 13 magnificent structures, out of the original 72, have helped San Gimignano earn the nickname of the "Manhattan of the Middle Ages". The towers, erected by noble families as a symbol of social status and economic power, testify to the wealth and influence of a bygone era, but their charm transcends time, captivating visitors from around the world to this day. In addition to the famous towers, San Gimignano boasts an exceptionally well-preserved historic center, a true urban jewel that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. Walking through the cobbled streets, one can admire splendid examples of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, such as the Palazzo del Popolo and the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which represent the gems of this rich historical setting. The medieval atmosphere is complemented by numerous enchanting alleyways and picturesque squares, including Piazza della Cisterna and Piazza del Duomo. These public spaces, enriched with fountains and monuments, are the bustling heart of the municipality, where important events and local celebrations take place. San Gimignano is not only famous for its architectural beauties, but also for its vast natural resources. Immersed in a wonderful landscape, the municipality is surrounded by hills covered with vineyards, olive groves, and forests. The surrounding countryside is a true paradise for hiking and cycling enthusiasts, with a vast network of trails and paths offering splendid views of the ancient village and lush nature. The territory of San Gimignano is highly fertile and produces high-quality agricultural products, including wine, olive oil, saffron, and local cheeses, which form the basis of a rich and tasty typical cuisine. In particular, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine, produced from native grapes, has obtained the Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin, and represents one of the gastronomic delights of this land. The culture and customs of the past are preserved and respected by the community of San Gimignano, which celebrates various traditional events throughout the year including popular festivals, fairs, markets, historical processions, and theatrical performances. San Gimignano, with its medieval towers, cobbled streets, breathtaking views, and typical products, is an undisputed gem of Tuscany, a place where time seems to have stopped to preserve the beauties of yesteryear and offer an unforgettable travel experience.
Aulla, Bolano, Fivizzano, Fosdinovo, Licciana Nardi, Podenzana, Santo Stefano di Magra, Sarzana, Tresana, Vezzano Ligure, Villafranca in Lunigiana
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Immersed in the verdant heart of Tuscany, Aulla is a municipality known not only for its splendid landscapes and rich historical sites, but also for a lively local economy that harmoniously intertwines with the colors of its bucolic personality. The illustrious enterprises of Aulla, rooted in local culture, tradition, and craftsmanship, contribute to the unique charm of this magnificent Tuscan gem. The local economy of Aulla is fundamentally supported by dynamic agriculture, a reputable craftsmanship, and innovative light industry. The saga of Aulla's agricultural progress dates back to its humble beginnings, when simple and virtuous cultivation methods were a lifeline for the community. The production of wine, oil, and cereals still forms an integral part of Aulla's economic backbone. Local farms work diligently all year round, preserving the enviable quality of their products and meticulously respecting the fragile balance of nature. The thriving wine industry embodies the Tuscan tradition of exquisite wine production. Any discussion of Aulla's local businesses would be incomplete without mentioning the families of winemakers: generations dedicated to the supreme art of viticulture. These artisans harmoniously blend centuries-old tradition with modern innovation to produce a tantalizing range of robust and delicate wines. Unforgettable are the images of lush vineyards basking in the Tuscan sun, while the scents of fermenting grapes waft through picturesque stone cellars. The production of olive oil, another vibrant subset of Aulla's agricultural landscape, plays a fundamental economic role. Traditional stone mills, perfected by technology, press high-quality olives, hand-picked from the municipality's olive groves, to produce an extra virgin olive oil with unparalleled aroma and taste. This "liquid gold," steeped in centuries of regional tradition, boasts a strong global presence and is widely acclaimed for its health benefits and culinary superiority. On the other hand, Aulla's manufacturing industry, although smaller in scale, leaves a significant mark on the economic map. Factories, strategically located within the municipality's industrial zone, produce goods ranging from textiles and clothing to appliances and mechanical components. These units follow sustainable practices, ensuring that their activities do not interfere with the tranquility of the Tuscan countryside. Aulla is also commendably renowned for its local craftsmanship, where creativity and skill harmoniously blend, giving life to a range of handicrafts that reflect the cultural richness and aesthetic beauty of the region. Ceramics, textiles, woodworking, and metal sculptures are among the numerous crafts for which the municipality is famous. The passion and dedication of the artisans are palpable in every masterpiece they produce. The tertiary sector, which includes services, retail, and hospitality, significantly contributes to the region's economy. Numerous family-run shops, cafes, and restaurants dot the charming streets of Aulla. They serve authentic regional dishes and local wines, showcasing the delightful forms of Tuscan culinary art. Hotels, bed and breakfasts, and local holiday apartments also offer peaceful stays in rustic Tuscan settings, making Aulla a popular retreat for tourists seeking to experience the sweet life. In conclusion, Aulla is truly more than just a municipality sparkling with historical splendor and natural elegance. Behind its enchanting landscape and captivating history, there is a dynamic panorama of local businesses that provide a lifeline to the community, keeping alive the spirit of traditional Tuscan life. These diverse activities, which amplify the charm and character of Aulla, make it a distinct microcosm of Tuscany's rustic yet vibrant economy.
The Municipality of Aulla, with a population of about 10,671 inhabitants in 2023, covers an area of almost 60 sq km. The gender distribution shows a slight prevalence of women over men. The presence of foreigners is limited, with a total of 1,176 individuals. In terms of housing, in 2021 there were 4,824 occupied dwellings and 2,097 unoccupied, for a total of 6,921 units. The accommodation facilities are rather limited, with only two hotels offering a total of 105 beds and 54 rooms. However, there are investment opportunities in agritourism, bed & breakfasts, and rental accommodations managed as businesses. From a tourist point of view, Aulla offers a museum with about 135 visitors in 2020 and is located in an agricultural region called "Colline della Lunigiana Sud-Occidentale". The altitude of the center is 64 meters and the Municipality is neither coastal nor insular, but is characterized as an area with intermediate population density. Accessibility to the area is ensured by railway stations, highway access, airports, and ports reachable in reasonable time. Furthermore, the geographical and morphological characteristics of the territory offer opportunities for the development of sectors such as agritourism and cultural tourism. In conclusion, despite the limited accommodation facilities, the Municipality of Aulla presents interesting investment opportunities in the tourism sector, especially for those interested in enhancing the cultural and landscape heritage of the area. The presence of infrastructure and the strategic location make the territory attractive for potential investors looking to diversify their portfolio in real estate, tourism, and commercial sectors.
Aulla, a jewel nestled in the green Tuscan hills, is a place that attracts countless tourists thanks to its strong cultural and historical identity. Fascinating year-round, during the celebrations dedicated to its patron saint, San Caprasio, on September 20th, the town pulsates with a unique and captivating energy. One of Aulla's most spectacular monuments is undoubtedly the Brunella Fortress, a majestic building initially commissioned by the Malaspina family in the 15th century and later passed to the Este family. Today, it houses the Lunigiana Natural History Museum, a true paradise for science and nature lovers. Here, you can immerse yourself in a journey through fascinating fossils and more, discovering the natural wonders this land has to offer. When speaking of Aulla, the splendid Abbey of San Caprasio cannot be overlooked. This place of worship, originally built in the 9th century, has accompanied the town throughout history. The saint from which it takes its name, San Caprasio, is venerated especially on September 20th, the date of the patron saint's feast. On this occasion, the city fills with residents and visitors who enthusiastically participate in processions, religious ceremonies, and popular festivals, all inspired by faith and respect for the saint. For lovers of medieval history, another point of great interest is undoubtedly the Ponte di Santa Lucia. This structure, dating back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest and best preserved in Lunigiana and is one of the city's symbols. Aulla is also famous for several cultural events held throughout the year. Among these, the Palio degli Asini stands out, a race held on the last Sunday of August during the Porcino Mushroom Festival, Aulla's other major summer attraction. During this unique competition, competitors, dressed in medieval garb and riding donkeys, challenge each other in a race through the city's historic center. Although the competition is intense, the atmosphere is always one of fun and celebration. Every autumn, Aulla hosts the Chestnut Festival, a tribute to the town's agricultural roots and an excellent opportunity to savor the autumnal flavors of local cuisine. During the event, stalls selling chestnut-based sweets and specialties line the town's streets, while visitors can participate in traditional Tuscan rural games and entertainment. And to round off your visit in style, Aulla offers its guests numerous food and wine options, with restaurants and trattorias serving traditional Lunigiana dishes, each more delicious than the last, sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. In conclusion, Aulla is undoubtedly a town offering a variety of attractions and activities to engage visitors of all ages. From its ancient churches to its historic monuments, from its folk festivals to its culinary traditions, Aulla is a town that knows how to captivate and captivate.
