Things to do in Vitriola Italy – what to see attractions and activities

The Fortress of Montecuccoli dates back to the second half of the twelfth century. Work on its construction started between 1235 and 1238 and ended in 1239. Initially, only the tower was built and later the rest of the plant was added. In the middle of the thirteenth century it was destroyed by the Modenesi, and only in the fourteenth century it was rebuilt. Today this beautiful fortress is in excellent condition and houses inside the Museum of the Partisan Republic.

The Museum of the Partisan Republic is dedicated to the history of the first Italian partisan republic, established between June and August 1944. The exhibition focuses on the military and political aspects related to the Resistance in the mountains. You can admire different uniforms, weapons and everyday objects of the great protagonists of the Partisan Republic of Montefiorino.

Historical news of the Castle of Montecuccolo dates back to 1027 when it was occupied by a family of German feudal lords. History has it that the famous general Raimondo Montecuccoli was born here, from which the fortress also takes its name. The fortress stands on a rocky relief not far from Pavullo, in Frignano. Its peculiarity lies in the position of the tower, erected slightly away from the buildings where the owners and guests resided. There is also the guard body located inside the third belt.

The Frignano Naturalistic Museum was established in 1982 thanks to the great commitment of the then commander of the Forestry Corps of Modena, Dr. Ferrucio Minghelli. Since 2006, the Museum has been located in the internal floors of the Castle of Montecuccolo. It is divided into three floors that welcome sections dedicated to Earth Sciences, Botany and Zoology.

The Cedar of Parco Ducale is known as the Cedar of Lebanon or 'Pinone' said by the Pavullesi. It was planted by Carlo Huller who built the park for Francesco IV, Duke of Modena. The species is native to the Middle East and like many other trees it was introduced in Europe in 1683. The cedar has a powerful trunk and is a strong and durable wood. It is said that the Egyptians distilled oil from the cedar wood for embalming the dead. In the bible, on the other hand, it is told that it was used for the construction of temples and palaces.

The Prato Stagno di Sassoguidano Oasis covers an area of 0.3 hectares and is a Special Protection Zone. In this area there are several amphibians, including the common newt, crested and Apuan, as well as the green frog and Dalmatin. Near the lake of the Oasis we can observe different species of ferns and orchids. Particular interest, it attracts a very rare plant known by the name Hottonia palustris.

Torre Lavacchio probably dates back to the 11th century. It is characterized by a slender profile and in the past had a function of lookout and defence of the nearby town. The Tower overlooks the Pavullese basin and represents the best preserved structure of the Middle Ages of Frignano.

The Tower of Gaiato dates back to 1200 but according to historical sources it could even be from Roman times. It was built on a mountain with a conical shape that represents the highest point of the Pavullese territory. The Tower is part of the fascinating and rich heritage of the province of Modena.