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Parco di Monte Ceceri: Leonardo's Flight & Ancient Quarries

Discover nature and history at Parco di Monte Ceceri in Fiesole, where Leonardo da Vinci's flight experiments meet ancient stone quarries.

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Explore Parco di Monte Ceceri in Fiesole, a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Once a vital quarry for Florence's iconic 'pietra serena' stone, it's also famed as the site where Leonardo da Vinci experimented with his flying machine. Hike through wooded trails, discover remnants of ancient quarries, and enjoy panoramic views of Florence.

A brief summary to Parco di Monte Ceceri

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during hot days.
  • Bring plenty of water, as some areas can get very hot during walks.
  • Explore the marked trails to discover identified plants, trees, and herbs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Florence, the easiest way to reach Parco di Monte Ceceri is by taking the ATAF bus #7. The bus departs from Piazza San Marco or near the Santa Maria Novella train station and takes you directly to Piazza Mino in Fiesole. From Piazza Mino, you can walk to the park entrances. Bus tickets cost €1.50 if purchased beforehand at 'tabaccherie' or newsstands, or €1.70 if purchased on board. Remember to validate your ticket upon boarding.

  • Walking

    If you're already in Fiesole, you can reach Parco di Monte Ceceri by foot. From Piazza Mino, follow Via Verdi uphill, indicated by signs for Via degli Dei and Anello del Rinascimento. Continue onto Via Monte Ceceri, passing a playground, until you reach the entrance of the protected area. Alternatively, from Piazza Mino, you can walk to Via degli Scalpellini to reach the heart of Monte Ceceri. Be prepared for a moderately steep walk.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Florence to Fiesole typically costs between €20 and €30. Taxis can be found at designated stands or called by phone. From Piazza Mino in Fiesole, it is a short taxi ride to Parco di Monte Ceceri.

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Discover more about Parco di Monte Ceceri

Parco di Monte Ceceri, located in Fiesole, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The 44-hectare park sits on the eastern edge of Fiesole, within the Metropolitan City of Florence. The park's name, Monte Ceceri, is derived from the local term for swans ('ceceri') that once frequented the area; the outgrowth on their beaks resembled chickpeas ('ceci' in Italian). Historically, Monte Ceceri was a crucial source of 'pietra serena', a grey-blue sandstone used extensively in Florentine architecture since at least the 15th century. The Medici government closely controlled its exploitation due to its wide use in architectural works, monuments, and urban furnishings. The park still contains reserves of this stone. Mining activity ceased in 1929, and the area underwent a reforesting project. The park is also known as the place where Leonardo da Vinci allegedly conducted his flight experiments. Piazzale Leonardo da Vinci, a panoramic terrace within the park, commemorates this connection with a memorial stone. According to legend, in 1506, Leonardo's friend Tommaso Masini piloted a flying machine from this hill, gliding approximately one kilometer before landing. Today, Parco di Monte Ceceri features various pedestrian routes and hiking trails. These include routes like 'Concerning Flight,' 'A Terrace Overlooking Florence,' 'The Quarries Stonemasons,' and 'Breathe the Forest'. The trails offer shaded walks in the summer and open areas with views. Visitors can explore historic sites like Cava del Braschi and Cava Sarti, large open-air quarries. The park provides panoramic views of Florence and the Arno Valley.

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