The Este dominion in Garfagnana and the "kingdom" of Ariosto for a journey back in time between castles and fortresses

In the morning we visit the fortified village of Ceserana, a small jewel inside a recently restored 15th century wall, located in the southern part of the ancient Este province of Garfagnana. The renovation of the ancient fortress dates back to the second half of the 15th century, also to ensure the resistance of the original narrow and high walls to the firepower of the artillery of the time. Also occupied by bandits of the Moro del Sillico lineage, it was restored again in the 17th century, and equipped with semicircular towers that can still be seen. Following a brief stop at Castelvecchio Pascoli for a visit, on the Colle di Caprona, to the house where the poet Giovanni Pascoli lived and is buried. Lunch in a restaurant at the “Antica Locanda San Leonardo”. In the afternoon visit to Ghivizzano with its castle. Walk through the village. Guided visit to an artisan pork processing workshop, from the production and marketing of pork products and typical local cold cuts such as Biroldo della Garfagnana, lard, sausage and soppressata sausage, passing on the peasant memory. Guided tasting. Possibility of purchasing products. We recommend the new Prosciutto Bazzone della Garfagnana e Media Valle del Serchio: Bazzon Cotto del Podere delle Pianacce, the mark of excellence. This is a leg of Italian pork selected at origin for the production of the raw ham. The ham is flavoured with a natural brine prepared by boiling aromatic herbs and vegetables. It is boned by hand and vacuum-packed before being steamed. Return to the hotel. Dinner. Overnight stay.