Vicopisano

In the Middle Ages, Pisa, Lucca and Florence fought fiercely over the village of Vicopisano because of its strategic position. It was the Florentines who won out in 1406 after a long siege. But here, unlike other villages that were razed to the ground and their castles torn down, the decision was to upgrade the fortified complex.

The fortress and the 13 towers

The architect Filippo Brunelleschi (the same who built the Cathedral Dome in Florence) was placed in charge of the project. In 1440 he erected the Rocca Nuova and reinforced the surrounding walls. These works gave Vicopisano new importance, so much so that it became the seat of the Vicarage of the Lower Valdarno.

The Rocca di Brunelleschi, Palazzo Pretorio and the 13 medieval tower-houses represent today the rich historical and artistic offer of this jewel of Mount Pisano. Vicopisano is also the starting point to discover the Romanesque Churches of the area such as the Parish Church of Santa Maria which preserves a 13th-century cycle of frescoes and the wooden collection of the Deposition from the Cross, the Parish Church of San Giacomo at Lupeta, and the Parish Church of Santa Giulia at Caprona, where you can also see the Rocca degli Upezzinghi, whose siege also saw Dante Alighieri as a participant among the Florentine soldiers.

Water, oil and ceramic

History but also wellness. Nearby is the Spa Park of Uliveto Terme. The water in Uliveto is famous for its health benefits and unmistakable taste, already known in the Middle Ages, characterized by a slightly effervescence.

Vicopisano is part of the Monte Pisano Olive Oil Trail. The vast olive groves allow the production of quality extra virgin olive oil, obtained using traditional olive harvesting and pressing techniques. The local olive oil has been awarded the denomination “Toscano” IGP Olive Oil – sub zone Monti Pisani.

Vicopisano was also known for its tradition of ceramics, which is now kept alive thanks to some clay (or “mota”, i.e. the name of raw clay) workshops.
Vicopisano is the starting point for excursions on foot or by bike on Monte Pisano. Ring routes through olive groves and chestnut trees, with panoramic views until the sea, like the path leading up to the Verruca Fortress or to Mount Castellare. The Festa dei Camminanti (Walkers’ Festival) takes place in spring, with a rich program of excursions and outdoor events.