Exploring Trassilico and the Mystical Hermitage of Calomini in Tuscany

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Hello dear friends,

today I wanted to share with you a discovery I made before Easter. I was in the Garfagnana area for work, and those familiar with Tuscany surely know the region I'm talking about. We're in the province of Lucca, and I had some free time, so I decided to explore a village nestled in the Serchio Valley called Trassilico. I found this place using Google Maps, and it seemed interesting for a little excursion, you know, my usual stroll through the alleys of this village.

Actually, I expected it to be a bit larger; it's situated at about 700 meters above sea level. I discovered it has Roman origins, but its major development occurred under the Republic of Lucca first and then the Republic of Florence. I must say, this part of Tuscany always holds surprises. Nearby, I also discovered there was a hermitage.

So, after a brief walk around this small village — practically deserted, I must say — I found out it was the birthplace of a renowned Italian naturalist. Fortunately, they've erected a bust in the town square to commemorate this significant figure.

Continuing my exploration, as I mentioned, I found out there was a hermitage nearby, again thanks to Google Maps. It's the Hermitage of Calomini, an important place not only for religious worship but also for its historical significance.

From the photos I took, this hermitage consists of two churches, one of which is practically carved into the rock. Unfortunately, I couldn't film the interior because a religious rite was taking place, so photography wasn't allowed.

But I must say, I was left speechless by this place — so strange, so unique. Reading the nearby plaques, it seems that several miracles occurred here, including a woman surviving a fall from the rocky wall of the mountain. Others tell of finding the Madonna statue and placing it in this location, where people have reportedly experienced numerous miracles, attracting pilgrims from all over the world.

I think there's always something mystical about these places, beyond religious faith. Sometimes, it's the very structures themselves, how they were built, that leave you speechless.

I hope you enjoyed the photos I shared in this post. I'll see you in the next post, and thank you so much for the comments you leave; they really mean a lot to me. Have a great day, everyone!