Attractions and Places To See around Pescia - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Pescia include a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of Tuscany's Valdinievole. The town is situated on the banks of the Pescia river and is surrounded by hills covered with olive trees, flowers, and citrus fruits. Visitors can explore well-preserved medieval character, historical sites, and natural features like the Svizzera Pesciatina. This region offers diverse experiences, from exploring ancient castles to enjoying scenic landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Pescia
- The most popular attractions is The Witches' Oak, a natural monument that is a beautiful 700-year-old oak with wide branches. This site can be visited freely and is easily accessible by road.
- Another must-see spot is Ponte della Maddalena (Devil's Bridge), an impressive stone bridge from the Middle Ages. Its unconventional appearance and daring construction technique have made it a notable historical site.
- Visitors also love Ferriere Suspension Bridge, a pedestrian walkway that joins the two sides of the Lima stream. This bridge is 227 meters long and reaches a maximum height of 36 meters above the river bed, offering panoramic views.
- Pescia is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and unique bridges. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to significant natural features.
- The attractions around Pescia are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 250 upvotes and 85 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
The Witches' Oak
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Villa Torrigiani
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Ponte della Maddalena (Devil's Bridge)
Highlight • Bridge
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Ferriere Suspension Bridge
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Cozzile Castle and the Clock Tower
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Tips from the Community
Ponte della Maddalena, or Ponte del Diavolo, is one of those places that will leave you speechless. It is located in Borgo a Mozzano and is truly unique with its very high arch and slightly crooked shape that makes it different from any other medieval bridge. It is absolutely worth stopping: the atmosphere is special. Crossing it on foot is an experience, and if you are on a bike, be careful of the stone section that can be slippery. There is also a bar nearby with a beautiful view of the bridge, perfect for a break before getting back on the road.
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Beautiful ancient oak tree!
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The centuries-old oak, called The Witches' Oak located in the municipality of Capannori, a meeting point for many cyclists given the numerous paths that surround the large oak. Historic monument to see
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One of the most beautiful and famous villas in the province of Lucca, Villa Torrigiani is located in the hamlet of Camigliano, in the municipality of Capannori. Its park is very large and of great beauty, in particular thanks to the French garden.
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In the beautiful Garfagnana region, between the famous Tuscan towns of Lucca and Barga, lies the Ponte della Maddalena (Devil's Bridge) next to the picturesque village of Borgo a Mozzano. Built over the river Serchio, the Ponte della Maddalena is not only one of the most beautiful bridges in the region to see. It is also a bridge with a long history full of special legends, the first stories of which date back to the 11th century. Nobody knows exactly when the construction of this impressive bridge began. It probably happened around the year 1100, on the orders of Matilda di Canossa. The first legend surrounding the bridge originated from this period and it was given its nickname the 'Devil's Bridge'. In Italian it is also called Ponte del Diavolo. Around that time, a man named Saint Julian was working on the construction. Because the work was hard and slow, he decided to make a pact with the devil. The devil would finish the bridge in one night, in exchange for the soul of the first living creature to cross the bridge. This happened, only Saint Julian made sure that it was a dog that crossed the bridge first and not a human. It seems that the devil is still furious today… Source: https://www.toscanetips.nl/blog/ponte-della-maddalena-bezoeken
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The Ferriere suspension bridge in San Marcello Pistoiese is a tourist attraction located in the valley of the Lima stream, in the province of Pistoia, in Tuscany. The bridge, built in the 19th century, is characterized by a suspended structure that crosses the valley offering a breathtaking panoramic view. The bridge has an interesting history: it was originally used to allow local ironworks workers to cross the Lima stream to reach their workplace. Over the years, it has become an icon of the area and a popular tourist attraction. The bridge has been restored and maintained over the years to ensure its safety and accessibility to visitors.
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Beautiful building and park. The villa is an extraordinary example of Baroque architecture in Tuscany.
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Given its curved shape and the appealing way it reflects in the sparkling waters of the Serchio River, it's hard to imagine why this scenic landmark was nicknamed the "Devil's Bridge." According to local lore, the Ponte della Maddalena got its devilish nickname because, under pressure to build it, the builder made a deal with the devil to speed up its completion. In reality, the bridge was probably commissioned by the Tuscan Countess Matilda and served as an important crossing for pilgrims traveling between France and Rome. At one end there once stood a statue of Mary Magdalene
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Pescia?
The region around Pescia offers several natural highlights. You can visit The Witches' Oak, a beautiful 700-year-old oak with wide branches, easily accessible by road. The area known as Svizzera Pesciatina, northeast of Pescia, features dense chestnut forests, cool air, and rushing streams, offering varied hiking territory. The surrounding hills are also covered with olive trees, flowers, and citrus fruits.
Are there any notable historical sites or cultural landmarks in Pescia?
Pescia is rich in history and culture. Within the town, you can explore the Cozzile Castle and the Clock Tower, which offers historical insights and views. Other significant sites include the Duomo di Pescia (Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta), the ancient Chiesa di San Francesco, and the Palazzo del Podestà, which houses the Gipsoteca Libero Andreotti, dedicated to the sculptor Libero Andreotti. Don't miss the impressive Ponte della Maddalena (Devil's Bridge), a medieval stone bridge with a unique design.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Pescia?
The Pescia area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and gravel biking. For example, explore the 'Ten Castles Loop' for mountain biking or the 'Florentine Gate (Montecarlo) – City Walls of Lucca loop' for cycling. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the dedicated guides for MTB Trails around Pescia, Cycling around Pescia, and Gravel biking around Pescia.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Pescia region?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Witches' Oak is a natural monument that children often enjoy. Villa Torrigiani, with its beautiful gardens, is also considered family-friendly. Additionally, the nearby hamlet of Collodi, famous as the home of Pinocchio, features the Pinocchio Park and the stunning Villa Garzoni and its garden, offering a delightful day out for all ages.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Pescia?
For panoramic views, consider visiting Cozzile Castle and the Clock Tower. The Ferriere Suspension Bridge also offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Lima stream valley, reaching a maximum height of 36 meters above the riverbed. The medieval villages within Svizzera Pesciatina also provide picturesque vistas of the surrounding landscape.
What is the best time of year to visit Pescia for outdoor activities?
The region's climate, with its cool air in higher elevations and pleasant temperatures in the valleys, makes spring and autumn ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and the natural landscapes are particularly vibrant. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially in the cooler, forested areas of Svizzera Pesciatina.
Are there any unique bridges to see near Pescia?
Absolutely. The area is home to two remarkable bridges. The Ponte della Maddalena (Devil's Bridge) is an impressive medieval stone bridge known for its unconventional appearance and daring construction. Another must-see is the Ferriere Suspension Bridge, a pedestrian walkway spanning 227 meters across the Lima stream, offering spectacular views.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gems' to discover around Pescia?
Beyond the main attractions, explore the charming medieval villages of Svizzera Pesciatina, such as Vellano, Sorana, or Aramo, each offering a glimpse into traditional Tuscan life. The Citrus Garden in Castellare di Pescia, home to over 200 varieties of citrus fruits, is a unique botanical experience. The Paper Museum in nearby Pietrabuona also provides fascinating insight into traditional papermaking.
What can I expect to find in Pescia's town center?
Pescia's historic center revolves around Piazza Mazzini, the traditional hub of civil life. Here, you'll find shops and a typical Italian market on Saturday mornings. The town is divided by the Pescia river, with the Ponte del Duomo connecting its two original settlements. You can also visit the Duomo, Palazzo del Podestà, and the Galeotti Palace Civic Museum within the town.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Pescia?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Highlights like The Witches' Oak are praised for being beautiful and freely accessible. The Ponte della Maddalena is noted for its interesting design and historical legend. The overall charm of the well-preserved medieval character and the diverse landscapes, from olive groves to dense forests, are also highly valued.
Are there any art or sculpture collections worth visiting?
Yes, the Palazzo del Podestà in Pescia houses the Gipsoteca Libero Andreotti (Libero Andreotti Plaster Cast Gallery). This gallery is dedicated to the renowned Pescia-born sculptor Libero Andreotti and displays approximately 250 of his works, offering a significant cultural experience for art enthusiasts.
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