Caprigliola and its walls commissioned by Cosimo I de’ Medici
The first information we have about the history of Caprigliola dates back to the 12th century. In 1185, there is a record of Caprigliola passing as a fief from Frederick I to the Bishop of Luni, who resided here during the summer season. From this period, we know that the village was already fortified. The buildings that were used for centuries as the summer residence of the bishops are now complemented by an imposing 18th-century church.
In 1401, Caprigliola, Albiano Magra, and Stadano came under the control of the Republic of Florence.
In 1556, under Florentine rule, the village of Caprigliola was endowed with the beautiful and imposing city walls that we know today. It was Cosimo I de’ Medici himself who commissioned the construction, highlighting the strategic importance of the village of Caprigliola during the Renaissance.
Inside the village, there are several architectural structures of particular significance: the church, the majestic city walls with the Medici coats of arms still preserved in perfect condition, a marble shrine from Carrara, and numerous decorated portals.
The village stands on an imposing sandstone rock at 161 meters above sea level. In the northern part, the hill is quite steep, while the southern part features a gentle slope, where vineyards and olive groves can be found. The territory of Caprigliola is, in fact, included in the D.O.C. area of the Colli di Luni, and the products from the region are recognized throughout Italy.
Travel curiosities
Every year, during the first days of September, the entire village of Caprigliola lights up in honor of the feast of the Madonna del Buon Consiglio. From a distance, it almost looks like a ship floating between the hills on the right bank of the Magra River. Have you ever happened to see it while driving on the highway from Santo Stefano towards Aulla and wondered what village it was?
Where the Village of Caprigliola is located
Caprigliola is located in the municipality of Aulla. From Aulla, take the road towards Santo Stefano Magra, and on the left, you will find the signs that guide you to the medieval village.
Nearby you can find
Saint Caprasio abbey Museum, Lunigiana Natural History Museum at the Brunella Fortress, the village of Bibola, Fifth Stage in Lunigiana, Pallerone Castle.
