Things to do in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana

Built by Duke Alfonso II at the end of the 16th Century, it was designed to offer the residents of the nearby town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana a safe refuge should the town come under attack or siege.
Whilst much of the fortress has fallen into ruin, a pathway has been developed around the fortress hill so you can walk the route that the defensive walls once took. The walk is approximately 1 hour on a reasonably flat surface and offers outstanding views of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and the Serchio Valley.
Address: Fortezza di Mont'Alfonso, Castelnuovo di Garfagnana Province of Lucca, Italy
Tel: 0583 643201
Web: www.montalfonso.it

Located within the ancient town walls, the origins of the Cathedral date back to the 10th Century although todays building is based on the 16th Century modernisation. Much restoration was needed following damage sustained during the Second World War, however, the damage actually allowed restorers to see the original classical structure below and enabled them to follow the original buildings lines. Within the Cathedral are many important pieces of Italian art, which include a wooden Crucifix popularly known as ‘the Black Christ’.

Feast day of St Peter
St Peter is the patron saint of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and the feast day on 29th June is celebrated by all the locals – many shops may close during the festivities.

Carnival
Castelnuovo di Garfagnana really gets into the spirit of Carnival time during February and you can watch the many floats parade through the town.

September Fair
The September Fair recreates the ancient importance Castelnuovo di Garfagnana held as a trading route between North and South. For 8 days, agricultural fayre is promoted for sale with a favourite being the local Garfagnino cheese. The tourist office has created a few new ideas to accompany the ancient traditions, one of which has proved very popular with the locals – Bingo in the main square!