Lago di Vagli: Tuscany's Submerged Village

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Discover the beauty and mystery of Lago di Vagli, where a submerged village adds intrigue to Tuscany's stunning landscape.

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Lago di Vagli

Lago di Vagli is an artificial lake in the Province of Lucca, Tuscany, created in 1953 by a dam. Beneath its surface lies Fabbriche di Careggine, a submerged medieval village that re-emerges only when the lake is drained for maintenance, an event that has occurred only four times, adding an air of mystery to its scenic beauty.

A brief summary to Lago di Vagli

Province of Lucca, IT

Local tips

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Pack comfortable shoes for walking around the lake and exploring the trails.
Check the local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience.
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds.

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Getting There

Car

The most convenient way to reach Lago di Vagli is by car. From Lucca, take the SR445 road, which will take you to the lake in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. As you approach Vagli Sotto, follow the signs for Lago di Vagli. There is ample free parking available near Vagli Sotto.
Public Transport

You can take a train from Lucca to Castelnuovo Garfagnana. From there, take a bus (E4, E51, E53, E54, E63) to Vagli Sotto. Check the Autolinee Toscane website for the most up-to-date bus schedules. Bus tickets can be purchased at local tabaccherias or directly on the bus. A single bus fare will cost approximately €2-€5.

Discover more about Lago di Vagli

Lago di Vagli, nestled in the province of Lucca, is more than just a picturesque lake; it's a reservoir of history and intrigue. Created in 1953 with the construction of a dam on the Edron stream, the lake's waters conceal the remains of Fabbriche di Careggine, a medieval village that was intentionally flooded. Founded in the 13th century by blacksmiths, Fabbriche di Careggine thrived for centuries before its relocation and subsequent submersion. The village has only resurfaced a handful of times when the lake was drained for maintenance, most recently in 1994. These events draw considerable attention, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. While there were talks of draining the lake again, it has yet to happen. Today, Lago di Vagli offers more than just a submerged spectacle. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the dam, explore the village of Vagli Sotto, and walk across a pedestrian suspension bridge that spans the lake. For thrill-seekers, there's a zipline that offers a flight over the lake. The surrounding Garfagnana region, with its Apuan Alps, provides ample opportunities for hiking and exploring.