Monsummano Terme

THE UNION OF TWO COMMUNITIES

Land of men such as the poet Giuseppe Giusti and the scholar Ferdinando Martini, the town of Monsummano Terme was born after merging of ancient communities of Monsummano Alto and Montevettolini. The Castle of Monsummano Alto, an architectural jewel of 1260, was for centuries the center of battles between Florence and Lucca, with the final victory of the first.

The flat and marshy area was reclaimed and built numerous villas and farms.

The first settlements date back to 1600 when Grand Duke Ferdinand started the construction of the shrine of our Lady of Fontenova and Osteria dei Pellegrini building, now the City Museum.

 

Traditions and Typical products

Monsummano is known to be one of the most important footwear districts of Italy, consisting of small businesses many of which are family owned.

In addition, its two natural caves: Grotta Giusti and Grotta Parlanti with their hot temperatures attract visitors all year round. Grotta Giusti, natural wonder and millennial cavity, is the largest cave in Europe.

 

Photo Credits [comune.monusummano-terme.pt.it]