Ostina: Settlement History and Trails in the Balze

If you would like to combine local history with trails through the countryside during your stay, Ostina offers two clear themes: its development from a medieval castle site into a fortified village, and the Anello di Ostina in the Balze. The circular trail leads from Ostina into the Balze area and, after a small pass, into the valley of the Rio di Luco. The town’s history can be traced through various remnants, while the trail takes you to named landscape features.

The Castle, Castelvecchio, and Castelnuovo

Ostina Castle is first mentioned in a written record from 1060. In 1305, the old castle was conquered and razed to the ground. After its destruction, the new village of Ostina, Castelnuovo, was built near the church of San Tommaso. In the 1427 cadastre, Castelnuovo appears as a walled, fortified settlement. Traces of this layout can be seen in the structure of the small village: it is arranged around two narrow central lanes. Only a few sections of ruined walls remain of the ruins identified as “Castelvecchio.”

The names help distinguish the different stages of the area’s history. Castelvecchio refers to the remains of walls identified as the old castle; Castelnuovo refers to the village built near San Tommaso after the castle was destroyed. These are distinct stages in the history of the settlement: the older castle and the fortified village that came later. This makes it possible to distinguish the few remaining sections of wall from Castelnuovo’s historic street layout.

San Tommaso and the dates

The church of San Tommaso dates from the 12th century. An expansion of Castelnuovo and its church is documented in 1314; the year is inscribed on the church’s lintel. The two dates refer to different things: the 12th century dates the church, while 1314 marks the documented expansion. A travel account dated July 3, 2023, also notes that the façade and masonry retain their original appearance.

The Anello di Ostina and the Balze

For hikers, the Anello di Ostina is a specific point of reference. Designated R25, it is part of the Balze trail network. The trail starting from Ostina leads into the Balze area, described as particularly impressive. After a small pass, the route reaches the valley of the Rio di Luco. It also leads to the Buca di Gabriello near Gretaio, which the trail description identifies as a possible place to stop for a break. Ostina, the pass, the valley, and the Buca di Gabriello provide several named landmarks along the trail.

Landscape and habitat

The Balze are erosion-formed landforms with steep vertical walls, rock pinnacles, and earth pyramids. These formations are part of the wider landscape around Ostina and Reggello. The Balze around Ostina also provide a diverse habitat that offers refuge to numerous birds, mammals, and insects. The landscape therefore offers two distinct perspectives: striking geological formations and a habitat for different groups of animals. If you choose Ostina as a travel destination, you can consider these natural features alongside the area’s history.

A recurring date

The apparitions of the Madonna della Riconciliazione also give a visit a special connection to a particular time of year. They have taken place on the last Sunday of every even-numbered month since July 10, 1993. If you would like to visit Ostina for this occasion, check the date before your trip.

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For the main travel overview: Florence.