Barga, Medieval commune in Tuscany, Italy
Barga is a commune nestled in the Serchio Valley at 410 meters elevation, spreading across hills covered with chestnut forests and olive groves. The town sits on a hilltop that has made it a notable settlement in the Province of Lucca.
In the 11th century, Barga received special privileges from Matilda of Tuscany, reflecting its political importance. The town then kept its standing through conflicts between Lucca, Pisa, and Florence.
The Opera Festival and jazz concerts draw performers from around the world, while summer celebrations showcase regional food and local traditions.
You reach Barga by way of the Barga-Gallicano railway station, which connects to major transportation routes across Tuscany. Walking through the town becomes easier if you arrive during daylight hours.
In the town center stands a red British telephone box that functions as a book exchange, showing the strong connection between Barga and Scotland. This unusual feature reflects an international friendship that the village has nurtured over time.
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