Prehistoric cave located at the foot of Monte Sagro
The Tecchia di Tenerano cave has prehistoric origins and is located in the village of Tenerano, in the munici-pality of Fivizzano. This massive limestone cavern is a natural formation. The entrance to the cavern spans 43 meters, while the interior of the cavern is approximately 60 meters wide and 20 meters tall. The cavern ceiling is completely covered with stalagmites, and at the lowest interior level, water sometimes collects forming a small lake.
Visit Tecchia di Tenerano
The Grotto was discovered in the first half of the 19th century by the Lunigianese geologist Igino Cocchi, born in Terrarossa in 1827 and founder of the CAI of Florence. (Club Alpino Italiano – trekking club)
Cocchi and his assistant Puini were the first to study the Tecchia di Tenerano. Through a careful examination of a portion of the stalagmite crust, they made a great discovery: they found human bones, animal remains and shards of vases (Aeneolithic pottery). While this prehistoric cavern previously provided shelter for Neolithic Era humans, it has more recently been used to house animals.
Additional information on this prehistoric site can be found in the book “Unknown Lunigiana,” by the geolo-gist Carlo Caselli, first published in 1933.
Where is the Tecchia di Tenerano?
La Tecchia is located one and a half kilometers above the Bocciari Bridge, at the bottom of the Rio Navola stream near the town of Tenerano.
How to reach the Tecchia Near Tenerano
Arrive at Località Maestà della Villa, where “Case Muccini Apartments” is marked. Park by the cemetery.
Take the walking path that starts from the cemetery – following the signs for Tecchia di Tenerano.
The trip takes about 25/30 minutes and does not present any particular difficulties. Pay attention in some slightly rocky areas and when crossing the streams. Follow the ‘CAI’ tracks on trees and stones.
Difficulty: E
Hike Time: about 30 minutes
The use of trekking shoes is mandatory
Recommended period: all year round
Family with children 12+ years of age
Recommended: lamp for visiting the cave
Find nearby
The Bocciari Bridge: this is where the 9 oldest stele statues of Lunigiana were found, 8 of which are completely intact. Find them on site and arranged in order of height.
