Immersed in the splendor of the Tuscan hills, there is a...
Camporgiano, Pieve Fosciana, San Romano in Garfagnana, Villa Collemandina, Villa Minozzo
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Located in the heart of the green and charming Tuscany, the municipality of Villa Collemandina represents a small gem nestled between the vegetation-rich hills and the high Apennine mountains. Although often chosen by nature lovers for its natural beauty, Villa Collemandina offers much more than just breathtaking views. This location actually houses a lively entrepreneurial and artisanal fabric, whose heritage is represented by activities that play a significant role in the economy of the local community. One of the sectors that stands out economically is agriculture. The fertile rural areas of Villa Collemandina give life to a varied production that ranges from the cultivation of fruits and vegetables to livestock activities. Local farms, many of which are small and family-run, are engaged in the production of a series of culinary wonders typical of the Tuscan region, such as extra virgin olive oil, fine wines, and sheep cheeses. Another important presence in the entrepreneurial landscape of Villa Collemandina is artisanal production, often linked to traditions dating back centuries. There are many workshops and laboratories that produce artifacts according to methods passed down from generation to generation, from handcrafted wooden furniture and hand-painted ceramics to textile products such as upholstery and household linens. The construction sector should also not be forgotten. In this sector, local companies have acquired a solid reputation for their ability to combine traditional construction techniques with modern innovations, thus ensuring buildings with low environmental impact and high energy efficiency. These companies play a fundamental role in preserving the historical character of the community, restoring ancient buildings and constructing new properties in traditional Tuscan style. Finally, the presence of retail trade must be mentioned, offering the local community and visitors a range of shops and markets where everything can be found, from fresh food products to clothing, furniture, and artisan ceramics. Last but not least, the opening of businesses related to catering and tourism should not be underestimated, with small hotels, bed and breakfasts, and restaurants offering authentic Tuscan dishes. In summary, the local economy of Villa Collemandina is the result of intense entrepreneurial work that takes place in the fields, artisan workshops, construction sites, and retail stores. This mix of tradition and innovation contributes not only to the economic vitality of the municipality, but also to the preservation of its cultural heritage and unique charm. Villa Collemandina is a place where attention to the quality of work and love for traditions are still deeply rooted values, reflected in all local economic and productive activities.
The Municipality of Villa Collemandina, with the ISTAT code 46035, is located in a predominantly hilly and mountainous area of eastern Garfagnana, with an average altitude of the town center of 549 meters. Its territory covers an area of 34.7899 square kilometers. The population of the municipality is predominantly Italian, with only 47 foreign residents, and in total it has 1170 inhabitants, distributed almost equally between males and females. The number of dwellings amounts to 1141, of which 558 were declared occupied at the end of 2021. Despite the relatively small size of the municipality and the low population density, Villa Collemandina has a significant tourist and accommodation offer. It has 5 hotels with a total of 233 beds and 119 rooms, and 132 bathrooms. Most of these accommodation facilities are 3-star category. Furthermore, in the municipal area there are 14 non-hotel businesses, including farmhouses, campsites, tourist villages, and rental accommodations managed as businesses, which allow to expand the accommodation offer by 487 beds. The tourism industry is therefore one of the most important economic sectors of the municipality and offers various investment opportunities, especially considering the beauty of the landscape surrounding the municipality, with the predominance of mountainous and hilly areas, ideal for those looking for a holiday in nature and relaxation. From an infrastructural point of view, Villa Collemandina has some limitations due to its relative distance from the main transport infrastructures: the nearest train station can be reached in 73 minutes, access to the highway in 61 minutes, the airport in 84 minutes, and the port in 92 minutes. This relative inaccessibility could pose a challenge for the tourism development of the area, but at the same time it could contribute to preserving its authentic character and tranquility, making it particularly attractive for a certain type of tourism. The Municipality of Villa Collemandina is therefore a territory with tourism potential that is still partly unexplored, but with an excellent natural and environmental context and an already substantial hotel offer. Investment in new accommodation facilities or in the renovation and enhancement of existing ones, as well as in tourism marketing to promote the beauty of Garfagnana, could therefore lead to significant returns.
Villa Collemandina is a splendor nestled in the heart of Garfagnana, in Tuscany. This small rural village, surrounded by lush hills that offer a breathtaking panorama, has a lot to offer to tourists, from culture lovers to those seeking a peaceful vacation immersed in nature. The territory of Villa Collemandina is generously dotted with churches, each with its own peculiarities. The most noteworthy is undoubtedly the Church of San Sisto, the spiritual center of the village, nestled in the historic center of the village. This sacred place dates back to the 13th century, an authentic architectural gem in Romanesque style with a proudly towering bell tower. Its interior, rich in works of art, is an open-air museum. Here you can find a beautifully carved altar and a series of fascinating frescoes dating back to the 17th century. San Sisto is also the patron saint of Villa Collemandina, an emblem of the religious heritage of the municipality. Celebrated solemnly every year on August 6th, San Sisto transforms the village into a lively festival of faith and tradition. During the festival, the faithful can witness the traditional procession, a moment of unity and devotion that permeates the entire village. In the religious panorama of Villa Collemandina, we also highlight the Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Magnano, another pearl of local spirituality, and the suggestive church of San Michele in Collemandina, both characterized by an ancient and discreet charm. For archaeology enthusiasts, the Tuscan municipality offers an unexpected treasure: the "Poggio di Villa" Park. This is not only a place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Tuscan hills, but also an archaeological area that exhibits traces of settlements dating back to the Bronze Age and the Iron Age. It is like a journey back in time, where visitors can immerse themselves in the past life of the area. Festivities and traditions play a significant role in the community life of Villa Collemandina. The Polenta Festival excels in this regard, taking place in July. This is an unmissable opportunity to taste polenta, a traditional Italian dish, cooked according to old local recipes. During the festival, the village square fills with scents, music, and colors, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. We conclude our journey in the charm of Villa Collemandina with the Inn "Al Cantuccio", an ancient farmhouse dating back to the 17th century, converted into a charming place of refreshment. With its coffered ceilings, original carvings, and welcoming atmosphere, "Al Cantuccio" is the perfect place to savor the typical dishes of Garfagnana, accompanied by a glass of Tuscan wine. Villa Collemandina, therefore, is much more than just a simple rural village. It is a treasure trove of history, culture, and gastronomy, enclosed in a natural landscape that will leave an indelible memory in the heart of every visitor.
