Discover Cicogna: History, Art and Landscape

Cicogna originally began as a small high-medieval castle owned by the Guidi counts. The settlement’s still-visible layout is oval; in 1432, Cicogna was plundered and severely devastated. The castle’s origins, the settlement’s layout and its destruction mark distinct points in the town’s history. Alongside these historical traces, sacred art and trails through the landscape are themes to explore during a stay.

Cultural History and Art

A half-length figure of the Madonna and Child has been kept in the parish church of Santa Lucia since at least 1614. The figure may have been sculpted from Terracruda. Other churches in Cicogna preserve significant works from the 17th century that have remained unpublished to this day. The image of the Madonna is a specific point of reference through its subject and date; the other works broaden the perspective on sacred art across several churches.

Several years ago, a group of private individuals set up a small museum in an old manor house in Cicogna, with memorabilia from the Italian Social Republic. This added the memory of the Italian Social Republic as another theme alongside the history of the castle and churches.

Stone from the Cicogna quarry was also used for construction work. This use adds a material dimension to the town’s history: alongside the castle and settlement layout, the use of building materials is another distinct aspect. A significant historic garden in private ownership is located near the villa in Cicogna. If you are considering it as a possible destination, check whether access is available before visiting.

Trails through the Valle dell’Ascione

The route through the Valle dell’Ascione is recommended as an excursion and is explicitly also mentioned as suitable for bicycles. It is about ten kilometres long and passes through cultivated hills, where meadows alternate with groves of oak, poplar and alder.

A hiking route starts in Cicogna and follows unpaved roads and paths through the rural landscape. A call for a guided hike dated 7 March 2026 describes this route; check the current arrangements before your trip.

The differences can help you choose the type of excursion: the valley route is about ten kilometres long and is also recommended for bicycles; the hiking route focuses on starting in Cicogna, the rural landscape and unpaved paths. This lets you weigh your options according to your preferred mode of travel and the character of the route. Short detours to the villages of Traiana, Cicogna and Campogialli are also possible along one of the routes.

If you are looking for a hotel for a stay in Cicogna, let your main interest guide your choice: would you rather focus on local history and sacred art, or plan a hike or cycling trip? Tailor your search to the theme that matters most for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Traiana, Campogialli.

For the overview of the wider area: Terranuova Bracciolini.