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Castello Lusuolo: A Tuscan Fortress with Tales of Emigration

Discover medieval history and poignant emigration stories at Castello Lusuolo in Lunigiana, Tuscany.

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Explore Castello Lusuolo, a medieval castle in Mulazzo, Lunigiana, that once controlled the Via Francigena. Today, it houses the Museo dell'Emigrazione della Gente di Toscana, offering a poignant look at Tuscan emigration through historical artifacts and stories.

A brief summary to CASTELLO LUSUOLO - Museo dell'Emigrazione della Gente di Toscana

  • Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Access to the castle is only available through guided tours that occur every 45 minutes.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the month and day of the week.
  • Be aware that the road connecting Ponte Magra and the Castle of Lusuolo is currently closed to traffic; follow the detour through Campoli.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Pontremoli or Villafranca, follow signs for Mulazzo. After crossing the bridge over the Magra River, turn left towards Lusuolo. Note that the direct road from Ponte Magra to the castle is currently closed, requiring a detour through Campoli. Parking is available near the castle.

  • Public Transport

    While public transport options directly to Lusuolo are limited, you can take a bus to Mulazzo and then a taxi to the castle. A short taxi ride from Mulazzo to Castello Lusuolo will cost approximately €15-€20. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

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Discover more about CASTELLO LUSUOLO - Museo dell'Emigrazione della Gente di Toscana

Perched on a rocky hill overlooking the Magra River, Castello Lusuolo is a commanding medieval fortress with a rich and turbulent history. Originally belonging to the Malaspina family, the castle controlled a key crossing point on the Via Francigena. Over the centuries, it was contested by powerful forces, including the Genoese, Florentines, and Milanese, leading to periods of destruction and reconstruction. In the 15th century, the Genoese Campofregoso family partially demolished the castle. Later, the Medici family expanded and transformed it into a formidable fortress in the early 17th century. Today, Castello Lusuolo houses the Museo dell'Emigrazione della Gente di Toscana (Museum of the Emigration of the People of Tuscany), established in 2004. The museum tells the stories of Tuscan emigrants through photographs, documents, and memorabilia. It highlights the contributions of Tuscans to the cultural and social fabric of their adopted countries. The museum features a library, conference room, and multimedia resources. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the experiences of those who left Tuscany in search of new opportunities. The castle's architecture reflects its long and varied history. The oldest walls date back to the 14th century, while other parts were rebuilt in the 16th century. The village of Lusuolo, with its triangular walls and southern gate, adds to the castle's charm.

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