Casentino, Mountain valley in eastern Tuscany, Italy
The Casentino Valley sits between Mount Falterona and Subbiano, spreading across an area of dense forests, medieval towns, and the Arno River source. The landscape shifts between green slopes, country paths, and small villages nestled into the hills.
The valley gained spiritual importance when Saint Francis established the La Verna sanctuary and Saint Romuald built Camaldoli monastery in the Middle Ages. These two religious centers shaped the region's character for centuries afterward.
Local kitchens still use traditional cooking methods passed down through generations, creating dishes like tortelli alla lastra and cured meats that taste of the land. Wine from nearby vineyards pairs naturally with these meals, shaping how people here eat and gather together.
You can reach the valley by train from Arezzo, stopping at towns like Stia, Poppi, and Bibbiena, passing through hilly terrain. A main road crosses the Passo della Consuma and connects different villages, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
A national park with centuries-old trees covers much of the valley and stands as one of the largest continuous forest areas in central Italy. This forest expanse offers walkers quiet paths far from crowded tourist routes.
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