Gavinana

Extensive chestnut groves surround the town of Gavinana, a well-known summer resort, which still retains the structure of a medieval village in the winding streets that climb up to the main square and in the ancient houses in rustic masonry of local stone, with small windows and framed portals that in spring are adorned with colorful flowers. The history of the town is linked to a hero: Francesco Ferrucci, leader of the militia of the Florentine Republic who on August 3, 1530 led his soldiers in the strenuous battle against the imperial troops. The equestrian statue in the town's central square and the nearby Ferrucciano Museum, which preserves memories and recollections of many Italian patriots who paid homage to Ferrucci in the Risorgimento era, are dedicated to this heroic fighter who fought to the death. In the same square, a meeting place and a venue for cultural and folkloristic events, stands the ancient parish church of Santa Maria Assunta, built in the 12th century and transformed inside during the 17th century. Here are preserved two valuable 16th-century works in glazed terracotta made by Benedetto Buglioni, and a precious 19th-century organ by Cesare and Luigi Tronci, famous organ builders, an instrument that is part, together with other historic organs kept in the churches of the mountain, of the prestigious musical tradition of Pistoia.