Molazzana, Vergemoli e Gallicano

For those who love mountain climbing, in the area of the municipality Molazzana, it is possible to reach the highest peaks of Pania Secca (1711 m) and Pizzo delle Saette (1720 m). There are also many caves (such as the Revel Abyss, 300 m), therefore this land attracts even many spelaeologists.

The underwood of Molazzana and its by-products represent an enormous source of richness for the town. In the area of Alpe di S. Antonio it is still possible to see the old copper mines. Another extremely beautiful town, particularly in the highest areas and near the Trombacco and the Turrite Cava lakes, is Gallicano, that is now part of the Parco Naturale delle Apuane (the Natural Park of the Apuan Alps). The old town centre lies high at the right side of the stream Turrite, near the Church of S. Jacopo, rising at the top of the town, and near the ancient fortress.

Gallicano, The facade of the Cathedral   Gallicano, the interior of the Cathedral "Virgin and the Child" by Della Robbia
 

Inside the S. Jacopo Cathedral, we can admire the wonderful altar-piece made of glazed earthenware (Andrea della Robbia is thought to be its sculptor). In the neighbourhood there are some Romanesque churches such as: S. Lucia, S. Andrea and S. Maria. The town Vergemoli is surrounded by several mountains, that is to say: Pania della Croce, Monte Forato and Pania Secca, and is crossed by the stream Turrite di Petrosciana. The name Vergemoli comes from Latin "Vallis Gemini", (that means "Twin valleys") and is due by its position since it lies in the middle of two valleys.

Really remarkable is also the Eremo di Calomini (the Calomini Hermitage), a worship and prayer place (since 13th century) that lies on a precipice. The town Fabbriche di Vallico stands on the contrary along the valley of the stream Turrite Cava. This town became a self-governing community in 1946, but has reached the actual organisation only in 1948, when the little village Trassalico was united to Gallicano. Fabbriche di Vallico originated from an Augustinian monastery (the Eremo di San Giorgio e Galgano in Vallebona) and was founded in 1214.

Gallicano, Hermitage of Calomini   Gallicano, altar inside the Hermitage of Calomini