'Where is it?
A hilly town in Lunigiana, it belongs to the province of Massa-Carrara, which is part of the Val di Magra between Sarzana and Carrara.
Why go there?
The name “Fosdinovo” probably derives from “Faucenova”, a new step. In fact the original village was connected to the new road linking the coast to the inland valleys east of Lunigiana. The first Lords of Fosdinovo were a noble family linked to the Bishop of Luni, and from the mid 14th century onwards, the well known Malaspina family was connected with the village, the site of their favourite residence. During the Restoration period, Fosdinovo permanently lost its independence and was absorbed into the Kingdom of Italy. During the latter stages of World War II, Fosdinovo suffered serious damage as it was on the so-called "Gothic Line", a fortified defence system created by the Nazis to halt the Allied advance. Of particular interest is the Malaspina castle, a typical example of a medieval fortress, which remains in excellent condition. Legend has it that Dante Alighieri stayed in this castle even though it is historically impossible. Today, the castle is owned by the Marquis Torrigiani-Malaspina and it can be visited by appointment. (An entrance fee is charged.) The village of Fosdinovo is surrounded by lush woodlands, vineyards and olive groves which produce the well-known and highly regarded olive oil and DOC wines,"Colli di Luni", including the famous Vermentino. The municipal area is crossed by a network of trails (including a section of the Via Francigena) which means you can enjoy long country walks. Entering the village you can admire the medieval castle and the parochial church of San Remigio, whose construction dates back to around the 13th century. The baroque-style church has a single aisle, the result of renovations completed in the 16th century. The church of San Remigio houses the tomb of Gaetano Malaspina and a 14th century marble statue, depicting the Saint. Near the church is the Oratory of the Compagnia dei Bianchi which was rebuilt in the Baroque style during the 16th century.
