Every year the municipalities of Tuscany participate in a “cultural marathon” with guided visits and special openings of historical and artistic sites normally not open to the public. “Spring Days,” is sponsored by Fondo Ambiente Italiano (FAI), a historical preservation organization modeled after the UK National Trust. FAI promotes and safeguards Italy’s historic patrimony. This year the Spring Days occur over the weekend of March 21-22.
This spring weekend the public can visit more than 30 sites offering up close views of the area’s history, art and nature. The event attract tourists as well as long time residents in the area taking advantage of spring weather to visit the different sites.
LUCCA PROVINCE
The Cathedral of San Cristoforo, set in the town of Barga designated one of the “Most Beautiful Towns of Italy,” has graced the town’s highest point since the Middle Ages. The Romanesque structure, built with marble from nearby quarries, dates to the 9th century. The interior contains terracotta pieces by Andrea della Robbia, and the terrace affords panoramic views across the Serchio Valley.
Located on the right side of the entrance a mysterious inscription includes Latin, Greek and other symbols, fascinating visitors. According to some scholars, the cathedral was once a citadel of the Knights Templar. (Via del Duomo, 1. Open Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 1 pm and 2 to 6 pm).
SIENA PROVINCE
In the medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano, the Campatelli House and Tower receive visitors to see a 19th century aristocratic home with art, furniture and objects typical of the period. The tower dating from the 13th century is one of the 14 remaining towers in the town. (Via San Gimignano, 15. Reservations are required for visits on Saturday and Sunday between 10:30 am and 6:30 pm. Guided tours are offered at 11 am, 2 and 4 pm).
LIVORNO PROVINCE
The Naval Academy, an enormous complex, opens its gates to visitors on these special days. Facing the Ligurian Sea, the academy is dedicated to training officers in the Italian Navy. Visitors can walk around the buildings, the large parade ground and learn about this complex constructed in the 19th century. (Viale Italia, 27. Open Saturday 2 to 6 PM and Sunday 10 am to 6 pm. Visitors will be escorted every 20 minutes).
GROSSETO PROVINCE
In the 16th century Grand Duke Cosimo, I established a coastal defense network of watchtowers to provide warning and defense against Saracen pirates. Strategically erected on cliffs and promontories facing the Tyrrhenian Sea with their entrances facing inland, the guards used smoke signals and a network of runners to warn townspeople of oncoming danger. Today there are more than 80 towers between Livorno and Grosseto on the route called the Via dei Cavalleggeri.
During Spring Days, two privately owned watchtowers will be open for visitors. In Castiglione della Pescaia, the Castello di Castiglione, also called the Rocca Pisano, rises over the medieval town. Just 21 km. north the Torre di Troia is perched atop a small islet in the bay of Punta Ala. The tower can be easily seen from the marina and private boat tours can be arranged. There are many hiking trails along the coast which give the best views over the sea, the Mediterranean scrub and numerous towers. On a clear day the island of Elba can be seen.
These suggestions are just a sample of the many cultural offerings on FAI Open Days. Most venues are free to enter, but a contribution is encouraged. For complete information, see the website: https://fondoambiente.it
(Rita Kungel)
