La Peschiera: A Tranquil Oasis in Santa Fiora

Nestled in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma, on the slopes of Monte Amiata, La Peschiera in Santa Fiora is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. This enchanting site began as a reservoir in the Middle Ages, constructed by the Aldobrandeschi family to breed trout for their feasts. Imagine a time when celebrations occurred nearly two-thirds of the year, requiring a substantial and readily available food supply. In the 15th century, the Sforza family transformed La Peschiera into a noble garden, adding their touch of Renaissance elegance. By the 19th century, it was reshaped again into a charming English park. Today, La Peschiera is a verdant sanctuary where pines, firs, cypresses, magnolias, holm oaks, cedars, and chestnut trees flourish. The pond is home to various fish and bird species, including trout, ducks, and swans. Not far from the Peschiera stands the Church of the Madonna della Neve, also known as the “church of the swimming pool”. Its unique feature is a glass floor revealing archaeological remains of an ancient village and hydraulic networks linked to the Fiora River's source. Santa Fiora itself is known as the “A water village”. The Peschiera marks the source of the Fiora River, which flows from beneath the nearby Chiesa della Madonna della Neve. The park provides a shady retreat in the summer and a place to connect with nature and history.