Poggio: Resistance History, Museums and Trails

When planning a trip to Poggio, it is worth distinguishing between the places of remembrance in the village and the different themes found in the surrounding area. The history of the Resistance is rooted in Poggio itself; museums, a mountain refuge and trails add a regional perspective. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Poggio, this guide can help you decide what to focus on during your stay.

Resistance History and Memorial in Poggio

During the Second World War, Poggio was a meeting place for local residents and Resistance fighters. In Poggio near Maresca, local residents supplied the Resistance fighters with food, clothing and medicine. The “Cippo ai partigiani e alla popolazione” memorial stands near Poggio’s green space. A large rainbow-coloured bench is located close to the memorial. In Poggio, tangible memories of support for the Resistance meet a memorial dedicated to remembrance. The different locations can be considered separate stops connected to the area’s history.

Rifugio del Montanaro in the Surrounding Area

In the area around Poggio, Rifugio del Montanaro has 12 sleeping places in two rooms. The facility also includes a large wooden panoramic terrace, built in summer 2006, where hikers can take a break outdoors. A bivouac with a fireplace provides shelter during storms; it is described as being open at all times. If you are planning to use the sleeping places or the bivouac, check the refuge’s current operating status before your trip. If you plan to visit the terrace, it is also advisable to check its current condition.

Museums and Regional History

The “Museo e rifugi S.M.I.” is located in Campo Tizzoro. The museum is an example of industrial archaeology and includes an underground shelter protected against air raids. The bunker extends for more than 2 km. Nearby, Palazzo Achilli serves as the Ecomuseum’s central information point; it hosts temporary exhibitions and educational workshops for adults and children. The Ecomuseo della Montagna Pistoiese also offers six itineraries covering local history, traditions and human work. In Gavinana, the Ferrucciano Museum commemorates the 1530 battle. These places focus on different themes, from an underground shelter to exhibitions and educational activities, and the commemoration of a historic battle.

Trails and Landscape

In the area around Poggio, hikers and cyclists use the route of the Ferrovia Alto Pistoiese (F.A.P.), a former railway line. The “San Marcello Pistoiese and the enchanted Forest” route leads to Maresca and then climbs towards Casetta Pulledrari. This provides two distinct points of reference: the use of a former railway line and the course of a route through Maresca followed by a climb. The ridge of Poggio dei Malandrini divides the terrain, which slopes west towards the valley of the Torrente Verdiana and east towards the valley of the Torrente Orsigna. These geographical relationships give the landscape its own spatial framework. As trail and road conditions can change, check them before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Lizzano

Go to the overview of destinations: San Marcello Pistoiese.