Casciana: History, Trails and Regional Culture

Casciana lies in the Alta Garfagnana at an altitude of 648 m. A stone arch marks the former ancient entrance to the historic center; a surviving gateway is a remnant of the walls that once surrounded Casciana.

Church and Local History

The parish church of San Tommaso Apostolo is on the road to Cascianella. Construction of the new church building began in 1931; in 1944, San Tommaso in Casciana was granted the title of priory. The interior brings together elements from different periods: the side altar was transferred from the former church, and its carved and painted upper wooden section dates from 1627. The vaulted ceiling inside the church is decorated with frescoes by the painter Vasco Cavani.

Casciana is mentioned in a lease agreement issued by Corrado, Bishop of Lucca, in 939. The origin of the place name is uncertain: it may date back to Roman times and derive from “Praedia Cassiana.” The bell tower is also part of the area’s history; it probably served as a watchtower.

Hiking and Cycling

A trekking route runs from Casciana via Verrucolette to Gramolazzo. It follows a ridge before descending to Lago di Gramolazzo. The route is about 7 km long and has only small elevation changes. These details provide key information for planning; check current trail conditions before setting out.

A trekking program included a guided tour of the Chiesa Vecchia and the Museo dell’Identità e della Memoria, activities involving traditional crafts, and a visit to the park by the lake. If you plan to take a guided tour, check current availability.

A different kind of route is the mountain-bike loop around Camporgiano. It is rated easy, follows paths and forest roads, and passes through Casciana and Lago di Gramolazzo on the way to Gorfigliano and Roggio before returning to Camporgiano. Unlike this loop, the trekking route from Casciana heads towards Gramolazzo and the lake. When choosing between the two options, the start and end points may help, as may whether you plan to travel on foot or by mountain bike.

Regional Highlights and Getting Around

Mela Casciana is a traditional apple variety of the Garfagnana. It has a rounded, flattened shape and red skin with green-yellow stripes.

A report dated May 9, 2026, lists a bar at MaMa in Casciana, with options for breakfast, meals or drinks, as well as toilets accessible to everyone. If you plan to make use of these facilities, check their current availability and opening hours before your visit.

For road directions: a small road leads north from Casciana towards Piazza al Serchio and crosses the Serchio on a small bridge. Check road conditions locally if you plan to use this route.

Discover more destinations: Filicaia.

Back to the main travel guide: Camporgiano.