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Private tour: The Gothic Line in Borgo a Mozzano (Lucca)

5 (8)
Borgo a Mozzano, IT
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Private tour: The Gothic Line in Borgo a Mozzano (Lucca)

5 (8)
Borgo a Mozzano, IT
Share
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Experience the fascinating history of the Gothic Line on this private tour in Borgo a Mozzano. Join your personal specialized guide as you explore the Museum of the Liberation, uncovering World War II artifacts and documents. Then, venture to two bunkers that were once used as observation posts, giving you an authentic glimpse into the soldiers' lives during the war. But the adventure doesn't stop there – continue to a third bunker located in the medieval hamlet of Anchiano, where you'll discover cannons, machine guns, and more. Finally, cross the iconic Devil's Bridge, a medieval marvel that survived the war and offers breathtaking views of the river and surrounding hills. Don't miss the chance to delve into history and marvel at the beauty of Borgo a Mozzano.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • Admission Not Included
  • 3 hours
  • Suitable for 1-15 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Multiple stops for photography
  • Local, professional guide
  • Private small-group tour
  • Museum entrance fee+ 2 bunkers € 10 per adult or Museum entrance fee + 3 bunkers € 15 per adult
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transportation to/from attractions

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

Comune di Borgo a Mozzano

Meet your personal specialized guide is in front of the train station in Piazza Marconi (Borgo a Mozzano) in the morning, or afternoon. The first stop is just a few steps away at the small, but evocative museum, Museo della Memoria, which features many World War II documents in relation to Lucca and the construction of the Gothic Line. The museum also contains uniforms and arms of both the Allied and German Armies, a series of objects issued to the troops, an exhaustive number of communiques released by the fascist prefect in regard to curfews, circulation restrictions, black market sales restrictions, photos, and documents of the local Resistance fighters. Note: Should you not have a car, you may reach Borgo a Mozzano by train.

Admission Not Included

Campo sportivo Borgo a Mozzano

Next, take a 10-minute walk to the two low-lying bunkers built to defend the antitank wall of the Gothic Line at Borgo a Mozzano. To defend the front, the Germans constructed two large, deep bunkers excavating them in the rock. The soldiers used them as observation posts, ready to defend the antitank wall of the Gothic Line with cannons and machine guns. To visit a third incredible bunker, you must take your car and drive to the nearby medieval hamlet of Anchiano. The bunker extends for many meters into the hill below the church of the village. To defend the left side of the river and the Gothic Line, the Todt Organization had this extraordinary fortification constructed for cannons, machine guns, and observation posts.

Ponte della Maddalena (detto Ponte del Diavolo)

Hop into your car again, and proceed to the legendary Ponte della Maddalena (Bridge of Mary Magdalene), better known as the 'Devil’s Bridge'. It was constructed during the Middle Ages so pilgrims traveling from northern Italy and Europe could cross the river on their way to Rome. This was the only bridge across the Serchio River that the Germans did not destroy during the Second World War, and proved to be a huge strategic error on their part. It is a humpback bridge with asymmetric arches and can be crossed on foot. At its highest point, there is a splendid panorama of the river and surrounding hills.

More about this experience

Introduction

Looking for a unique and engaging historical tour in Italy? Look no further than the private tour of the Gothic Line in Borgo a Mozzano (Lucca). This captivating 3-hour guided tour takes you on a journey through World War II history, exploring the remnants of the Gothic Line and its impact on the region.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to visit the Museum of the Liberation, where you'll discover a treasure trove of World War II documents, uniforms, and weapons. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insight into the construction of the Gothic Line and share stories of the local Resistance fighters. You'll also have the opportunity to explore two World War II-era bunkers built by the Germans to defend the antitank wall. The tour then takes you to the nearby medieval hamlet of Anchiano, where you will visit an extraordinary bunker filled with cannons, machine guns, and observation posts. Finally, you'll make a stop at the iconic Devil's Bridge, where you can take in panoramic views of the river and surrounding hills.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, World War II buffs, and anyone interested in experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Italy. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, this private tour offers a personalized and immersive experience tailored to your interests.

Why book this?

Book this private tour to delve deep into the history of the Gothic Line and gain a unique perspective on World War II in Italy. With an experienced guide by your side, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of this significant historical period. Beyond the educational aspect, this tour allows you to explore picturesque landscapes and admire the architectural marvels of Borgo a Mozzano, including the famous Devil's Bridge.

Good to know

Throughout the tour, your guide will provide engaging commentary and answer any questions you may have. It's important to note that a car is necessary to visit the third bunker located in Anchiano. If you don't have a car, it's possible to reach Borgo a Mozzano by train. The tour starts and ends at the train station in Piazza Marconi, making it easily accessible for travelers.

Reviews

Customers who have experienced this tour have praised the knowledgeable guides and their ability to bring World War II history to life. Travelers have expressed their satisfaction with the diverse range of sites visited, from the thought-provoking museum to the impressive bunkers and iconic Devil's Bridge. This tour offers an immersive and educational experience that leaves a lasting impression on its participants.

Reviews

(8)

5 (8)

Juan_S

Paola was the best possible guide. Great experience. Interesting not only for WW2 History geeks but also for the general public.

Rosalia_H

If you love history or just want to do something that is truly off the beaten track consider this private tour. Anna made it so interesting. It was a private tour and we were able to move at our own pace. The German bunkers and the story of how Lucca was involved in WWII were eye-openers. The museum is small but packed with interesting artifacts. Devils Bridge is included in this tour.

Alan_D

Touring The Gothic Line with Anna was absolutely incredible. Learning the history of the line was fascinating especially hearing the impact on the Italian citizens. Walking through the bunkers while hearing the stories of why and how they were built puts a unique perspective on history. Highly recommend this tour for everyone.

JoAn F

Fascinating tour, led by Carlo. Carlo is very knowledgeable about WWII but was also able to explain the big strategies and local involvement in a way that was interesting and engaging. We spent quite a bit of time in the small museum, learning about the Gothic Line and some of the local individuals that participated in the war activities. Then we headed out to two nearby bunkers. He led us through the bunkers so that we could understand their purpose, construction, and impact.

Bubblesmam

This was excellent. Anna was well informed without being stuffy. The bunkers are fascinating and only open for pre arranged tours. Great value at 160 euros total for 10 people (not each). Highly recommended.

PolPop6770

If you are anywhere near this location and are a World War II history buff, had family in the war, or just enjoy a general history and knowledge this is a must-see for you! Anna, our tour guide, had wonderful stories as well as lots of knowledge, History, plus family personal experiences that made the tour extra special - a real eye-opener for anyone that has not lived through this difficult time. The best story is the town coming out to the Piazza waiting for the Americans to arrive... HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

matthew_h

<p>This did not have any reviews, so I was a bit nervous booking this but my husband is a big history buff and really wanted to learn more about the Gothic Line and see the WWII German bunkers. Our tour guide, Carlo, was a great tour guide! The tour lasted about 2 / 2.5 hours. He shared a lot of informative information and also shared personal family stories. You need to rent a car in order to go to all three bunkers, but it was worth it. Very cool learning and seeing something that many people do not know much about. I would recommend this tour if you like history. The town is also pretty and you can see the gorgeous Devil's Bridge once the tour is over. Thank you Carlo for a wonderful experience!</p>

danielaO1765NK

Un tour che ti fa toccare con mano la storia della seconda guerra mondiale. Si, le foto le conosciamo tutti. E tutti sappiamo bene cosa è stata la linea gotica e il suo perché. Ma entrare nella storia in questo modo, toccare muri, ferro, fili spinati, trincee…. Credete, è tutta un’altra storia. Un plauso ai volontari (il nostro cicerone era un gentilissimo volontario (classe 50 e occhi azzurri), profondo conoscitore di ogni dettaglio), che ci ha condotti per mano quasi sul set della storia del paese in guerra, regalandoci aneddoti, particolari e storie individuali di non poco conto. Complimenti a quanto lavorano per mantenere viva la STORIA. Non dimentichiamo.
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-03-28 16:47