Pizzorne: Mountain Landscapes, Dolmens and Trails

Mountain Landscapes and Prehistory

The Altopiano delle Pizzorne is a mountainous area of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, extending between Villa Basilica, Capannori and Lucca. From the summit of Pietra Pertusa hill, the view stretches north across the gentle heights of the Apennines and the rugged Apuan Alps. To the south, the panorama encompasses Monte Pisano, the coast and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The remains of an ancient dolmen have also been preserved at Pietra Pertusa. It was built by the peoples who inhabited this area between the 5th and 3rd millennia BC. Landscape and prehistory come together here: the view opens up from the hilltop, while the dolmen remains recall the people who once lived in the area.

Churches and Trails

Another historic landmark is the Church of San Bartolomeo in Pizzorna. It is said to have been built in 1640; restorations took place in 1700, 1803 and 1906. From the Church of Santissimo Crocifisso, a footpath of about two kilometres leads to the ancient Church of San Bartolomeo and the site of the former Hospital of San Bartolomeo.

The Cammino di Santa Giulia offers a different way to explore the area: the final section of the Lucca stretch climbs towards the Altopiano delle Pizzorne. The footpath from the Church of Santissimo Crocifisso is defined by its two historic destinations and approximate length; on the Cammino, the focus is on the uphill route and its direction towards the plateau. Your choice therefore depends on whether you want to visit a destination or follow a stretch of trail towards higher ground.

Local tradition associates the Church of Santissimo Crocifisso with a thanksgiving Mass celebrated every year on 1 August in remembrance of the miracle. The two churches thus offer different points of interest: San Bartolomeo is notable for its construction and restoration history, while Santissimo Crocifisso is associated with the traditional Mass.

Market Plans for 2026 and Adventure Park

For the 2026 summer season, the weekly farmers’ market Mercato Contadino was planned to take place in Pizzorna from 21 June to 30 August. It was due to be held on Sundays in Via del Romitorio. Up to six stalls were planned for the direct sale of agricultural products.

The adventure park Sospeso nel Verde is located on the Altopiano delle Pizzorne. According to the operator, it offers 16 climbing courses of varying difficulty. The operator describes the activities as suitable for all age groups and designed with the greatest possible safety. The park may operate seasonally, so check the operator’s current information before visiting. If climbing is a priority on your trip, the park is a specific reason to include the Altopiano in your plans.

Getting There and Planning Your Trip

The Altopiano delle Pizzorne is easily accessible by car from Matraia or Villa Basilica. Check road conditions before setting off. When planning your trip, you can choose between different highlights: the panorama and dolmen remains at Pietra Pertusa, the historic churches, the uphill section of the Cammino di Santa Giulia or the climbing courses. These offer different ways to plan a stay in Pizzorne’s mountain landscape.

Discover more destinations: Pracando

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