Lago di Vagli: Tuscany's Submerged Village

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.