Reggello

AN EASTERN CASTLE IN THE HEART OF TUSCANY

 

Reggello is located in the easternmost part of the province of Florence and extends from the Valdarno to the top of the Pratomagno mountains.

 

In ancient times the town was called Castelnuovo della Pieve di Cascia, a name that was changed under the rule of Lorraine. In 1773, in fact, Duke Pietro Leopoldo decided to name the village "Reggello", which derives from "rege", a term used to indicate the ancient possessions of the Lombards.

 

In the historic center it is possible to visit the parish church of San Pietro a Cascia, dating back to the 12th century, when the Countess Matilde di Canossa reigned. A portico precedes the entrance to the church whose interior is divided into three naves. Castello di Sammezzano, an architecture with an unmistakable Arabic style, is of particular value. At the beginning of the eighteenth century, an "Orientalist" cultural wave spread throughout Europe and Florence is one of the centers most influenced by this fashion. The history of the castle began in Roman times, but between 1843 and 1889 the pre-existing structure was enlarged and renewed. It was Ferdinando Panciatichi Ximenes d'Aragona who designed and realized the reconstruction of the castle according to an Arabian style. He will not only deal with the interiors of the structure but also with the exterior. The keep is still covered by a large forest of oaks and sequoias.

 

Also worth a visit is the Abbazia di Vallombrosa, surrounded by a nature reserve that houses an experimental arboretum.

 

 

 

Traditions and Typical products

 

Reggello is known for the production of wine and oil in the month of November takes place the Review of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Some companies also present zolfini beans and "pink cecino".

 

In the territory of Reggello a strong tradition of craftsmanship is still alive. In the village of Tosi, the artisans continue to work at the time and every year the "Exhibition of furniture and wood handicrafts of Vallombrosa" is organized.

 

 

 

Photo Credits [wikipedia.org]