Routes through the nature and landscapes of the Lucca area

Morianese

With historical attractions and excellent food and wine: a discovery of historic villages, ancient castles and beautiful landscapes.

To the north of the city of Lucca, lush green hills mark the rhythm of the landscape. The picturesque Moriano hills are home to numerous historical treasures and offer a range of unmissable local produce. They are renowned for the production of excellent wines and extra virgin olive oils, obtained from the vineyards and olive groves that benefit from an ideal climate and an agricultural tradition dating back hundreds of years.

The ancient hamlet of Aquilea is dominated by the Castellaccio, an imposing fortification of medieval origin. The town has been officially renamed ‘Paese della Zuppa’, ‘Soup Town’, a recognition that celebrates local cuisine based on genuine regional ingredients. The Moriano hills are also enriched with history and beauty by the hamlets of Gugliano, Mastiano and Mammoli, where the charming Parish of San Ginese perched on a hillock overlooks the stunning surroundings.

On the other side of the Serchio river, Palmata stands in the middle of the countryside; its ancient mill is a rare example of rural architecture not to be missed, and offers a valuable insight into traditional cereal milling techniques. In the surrounding hills, there is the stunning view from the Convento dell'Angelo, commissioned by Charles II, Duke of Parma and designed in the 19th century by the well-known architect Lorenzo Nottolini. The nerve centre of the area is Ponte a Moriano, a lively district with numerous commercial and cultural activities.