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

The Ornithological Museum exposes to the public a large collection of specimens of flora and fauna of the territory, dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. The property is located in the Camaldoli Forest National Park. Of great interest is the precious Biggeri collection, kept inside it. In addition, the exhibition is enriched by illustrative and educational panels.

The Monastery of Camaldoli represents a complex built during the sixteenth century that rises on the banks of one of the branches of the Archiano River. The works were completed in 1611 and included an ancient hospice or guest house, a church and a monastery. In front of the entrance to the main building is a monumental fountain built by Ambrogio Traversari in reference to the richness and quality of the renowned waters of Camaldoli.

The Hermitage of Camaldoli dates back to the 11th century and is located at 1,111 meters above sea level in the forest of the Casentino Forest Park. It is surrounded by a wide wall where inside we find the cells of the hermits monks and the church. Of particular importance is the cell of San Romualdo and the ancient library composed of numerous volumes.

The Castle of the Counts Guidi in Poppi was built between the 9th and 10th century and was the seat of the feudal family of the Counts Guidi who lived in the manor for almost four hundred years. The current architecture dates back to 1274, when Count Simone di Battifolle had come to power. The main access to the castle, after the last restoration of 1470, was through the Lion Gate. The history of the castle is embellished by the stay that Dante Alighieri made between 1307 and 1311 in the wonderful rooms of this fortress in central Italy, here Dante composed the XXXIII song of Inferno.

The “C. Siemoni” Forest Museum was founded in 1982 and only in 1992 it was moved to its current headquarters. It was born in honor of Carl Siemoni, one of the greatest administrators of the forests of Casentino. The museum is one of the most important at national level since it is possible to see sections of logs, wood affected by insects, framed specimens and many wood samples of forest species. However, there are also rocks and plastics here.

The facade is inspired by a rigorous neoclassical style and shows a templar front marked by four semi-columns on a high base and rectangular niches and semicircular windows on the sides of the entrance. The interior consists of a single nave beautifully decorated in stucco and frescoes by Giuseppe Parenti.

The castle belongs to the Ubertini family of Chitignano, and has always been their property. The construction is very large and well organized, and over the centuries it has become even more majestic. To enter we must pass on a narrow path that leads us to what was the square of arms. Inside there are different works and paintings from different eras. It still belongs to private individuals, but you can very well visit on request.