Gourmet Tour - Pontremoli The Gem Of The Lunigiana

OVERVIEW

Head inland to the medieval town of Pontremoli for an enlightening walk along its cobblestone streets before dining at an atmospheric restaurant. Pontremoli means “trembling bridge” in Italian, a reference to its still-standing Roman bridge that spans the River Magra. The city is one of the northernmost points in Lunigiana, a mountainous territory within several regions, the most influential being Tuscany. It may not be as well-known as other northern Tuscan towns, and that lack of commercialization is much of its charm. Pontremoli exudes history but not just from one time period. As you walk through the pedestrian-friendly city center, you will see baroque palaces, the rococo Nostra Donna church and an archaeology museum that holds an invaluable collection of prehistoric sandstone sculptures. During lunch, you will likely be served testaroli, an ancient type of pasta that originated in Lunigiana. It is traditionally made with only three ingredients – water, salt and flour – and topped with pesto.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through the heart of Pontremoli, an alluring medieval town in the Lunigiana territory.
• See a mix of architecture that reflects the history of Pontremoli.
• Enjoy a traditional lunch with dishes said to have originated in Lunigiana.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.