Larciano

Nestled at the foot of Montalbano, the present-day municipality of Larciano spans an area of 21 sq km and comprises the hamlets of S. Rocco, Larciano, Cecina and Castelmartini, as well as the smaller settlements of Baccane, Colonna and Biccimurri. Larciano Alto has retained its medieval urban layout, including the 13th-century defensive walls with three access gates to the village. At its highest point stands the Rocca, likely built by the Pistoians after their acquisition of the Larciano Castle in 1226.

Larciano Castello

Larciano Castello is one of the lesser-known towns in Pistoia province, largely due to its rather remote location away from the main road networks; yet this very isolation has allowed it to preserve an almost entirely intact place, full of charm and steeped in a palpable sense of antiquity. You can reach it from Monsummano by following the SS436 towards Fucecchio, or from S. Baronto—the most convenient and equally rewarding route—or alternatively from Pistoia via Lamporecchio to S. Rocco, which is the lower part of Larciano.
Positioned at 160 metres above sea level with commanding views over the entire Valdinievole valley, Larciano is a fortified village that experienced its most significant period during the Middle Ages, when it was a cornerstone of Pistoia’s defensive system and an important traffic junction along the main route crossing the Arno.

Castelmartini can be reached from Monsummano via the SS436 towards Fucecchio. The original settlement, which lent its name to one of the hamlets making up the scattered municipality of Larciano, lies south of the present-day via Francesca and dates back to the late 13th century.

The village of Cecina, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views, is a charming settlement of ancient origins that played a significant role in medieval times as a castle guarding the southern borders of Pistoia’s territory. From Pistoia, take the road to San Baronto, follow it to Cantagrillo, then branch off towards Baco and cross the Montalbano range. Coming from Monsummano, take the first stretch of the SS436, then branch off towards Montevettolini, and you’ll reach your destination within a few kilometres.

Recommended hotels in Larciano