Wedged between the verdant Apennine range and the rocky buttresses of the Apuans, the Serchio Valley opens onto one of the most enchanting secluded corners of Tuscany.
In view of their strategic position, these lands were continually being invaded; in the 3rd century B.C. they were inhabited by the Apuan Ligurians, a small but powerful population of hunters and shepherds.Spurred by their strong wish for independence, they were able to resist the attacks of the Celts and Gauls, until the Romans succeeded in 179 B.C. in invading the area, following which they deported 60,000 inhabitants to Sannio.The few who remained, although absorbing many aspects of Roman civilisation, managed to keep their indomitable spirit.
Following this came the rule of the Lombards; then came the turn of nobility of Lucca in mediaeval times, followed by the Florentines and the Este, sometimes allies and sometimes enemies.
In the end the Serchio Valley was divided into Vicariates which had independent cultures and political and economic interests.
Despite the differences, apparent in the different architectural styles found in the valley, there has always been an element which united the inhabitants: the culture of the chestnut and woodland, place of cults and magic.
The forest has symbolised the heart and soul of this region; whereas agriculture was and still is a secondary activity, because of the peculiar structure of the land, which does not allow intensive development.