The Independent Marquisate and the history of the Tresana Mint
The village of Tresana was built on the site of a Byzantine fortification, which was crucial for controlling the valley. The name of this village actually comes from the Byzantine word ‘turris,’ from which the name ‘Turresana’ later developed.
In 1164, the entire territory of the fortification and the present-day municipality was granted to the Malaspina Marquises of Mulazzo by Emperor Frederick Barbarossa.
In 1565, Tresana became an Independent Marquisate thanks to the investiture of Guglielmo Malaspina by Emperor Maximilian II of Habsburg, who in 1571 granted the right to mint coins. Thus, the Tresana Mint was created. In addition to this, only two other Malaspina fiefs had the right to mint their own coins: Malaspina of Fosdinovo and Cybo-Malaspina of Massa.
The history of the Tresana Mint ended tragically with the excommunication of the marquis, as from 1588, the Tresana Mint became infamous for coin counterfeiting, including those of the Papal States.
During the following centuries, the history of Tresana was marked by numerous turbulent events: initially, the population of Tresana sided against the Malaspina Marquises, killing one of the younger brothers of Marquis Guglielmo II in 1650, who died the following year without leaving legitimate heirs. The fief of Tresana was then occupied by the Spaniards, who sold it to the Corsini Princes of Florence.
With the arrival of the French in 1797, Tresana came under Napoleon’s control. After the Congress of Vienna, the village of Tresana returned under the control of the Corsini Princes.
How to Reach The Village of Tresana
From Aulla, follow the directions to Terrarossa. Immediately after the Castle of Terrarossa, turn left and follow the signs to Barbarasco. Pass through the village of Barbarasco and continue following the signs to Tresana. Follow the road to the end, where you will climb up to the medieval square of the village of Tresana.
Nearby you can find
Tresana Castle, the Village of Castello di Villa di Tresana and his Castle, Lunigiana Natural History Musem at the Brunella Fortress, Saint Caprasio Abbey Museum, the Village of Caprigliola.
