About Us
A medieval village guardian of ancient stories and authentic traditions in the heart of Garfagnana
Sillico is a small jewel nestled between the Apennine slopes of Garfagnana, we have news of this village starting from the 10th century.
This medieval village, silent witness of past eras, still preserves today the authentic charm of a time that was. Sillico is mentioned for the first time in a document of 991 as a community subject to the Pieve Fosciana parish. In 1429 it was the first village of Garfagnana to declare its dedication to the Signoria Estense, obtaining in return tax breaks and funding for strengthening the walls. Sillico remained an autonomous municipality until 1804 and Palazzo Carli was, probably, its headquarters.
The fortified walls and the remains of the medieval tower tell of a glorious past, when the village was an important strategic outpost in the valley. Today, the associations Polis Sillico and Terre del Moro are committed to enhancing this extraordinary heritage.
We offer visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in an authentic experience of history, pristine nature and gastronomic traditions passed down from generation to generation.
The Moro Trails
A network of seven itineraries that lead to the discovery of the territory between the mountain villages of Sillico, Capraia and Bargecchia
Sentiero delle Rogazioni – N.1
Short loop around Sillico, with a magnificent view over the valley and the Apuan Alps. Crossing chestnut groves and terraced vineyards you reach a station of the “Rogazioni”, a religious rite to ask God for protection of the harvests. A sculpture in an old chestnut trunk was recently created near the trail start.
Sentiero delle Maestà - N.2
From the lower part of the village you descend along “Via Chiusa” to discover the majestic panorama of the Apuan Alps. Entering the chestnut grove you intercept the ancient municipal road that goes back up. Along the way you encounter some “maestà” (votive shrines) and the wash house, used until a few decades ago.
Sentiero dei Metati - N.3
Easy loop starting from the Sillico parking lot, passing through evocative chestnut groves. Along the route you encounter various “metati”, buildings for drying chestnuts, some still regularly used. A short variant leads to the Sillico stream near an ancient mill.
Sentiero dell’Eremo - N.4
From Sillico you reach Capraia and its suggestive Hermitage. Taking the dirt road starting from the upper parking lot, the trail turns right into the chestnut forest. The path then leaves the forest and climbs through meadows to the Hermitage of Capraia. From there, you can reach the road or the village of Capraia. The path eventually leads to the Col de’ Campacci pinewood and back to the start.
Sentiero di Bargecchia - N.5
Descending below the Sillico sports field, you take the path to Bargecchia, a tiny village overlooking the valley. The trail is entirely in the woods until the village, then follows a stretch of road back up to Sillico via “La Casetta”.
Sentiero di Sassatecchia - N.6
Descending below the sports field, take the path to Pastina, once inhabited and cultivated. Continue right to Salotti and its old mill. Crossing the stream separating Sillico from Fosciandora, other locations can be reached, though not part of the Moro network. Return to Sillico along the same path.
Sentiero dei Mulini - N.7
From the lower village, reach the old wash house and the ancient municipal road. Reach the first mill, cross the Sillico river, and follow the river passing the hydroelectric plant and Sacco dam to Pilastrello Mill. Cross a second bridge and climb back to the village through chestnut groves connecting to trail N.3.
Caprasecca – N.8
This trail connects to Foce and Capraia. Starting from the parking lot, follow trail N.3 towards Pasquejo. At “Le Grotte”, climb right towards “Buricavi”. Out of the forest, connect to the road at La Foce.
Sillico Bike Rent
Latest generation mountain bikes to explore Garfagnana on two wheels
Discover our services for cyclists:
- Latest generation Focus mountain bikes
- E-bikes with up to 80 km range for limitless exploration
- Free bike delivery directly in the village
- Safety kit: helmet and repair kit
- Detailed trail maps with difficulty levels
- Guided tours on reservation with expert guides
- Technical assistance
Events
A calendar full of appointments to experience the traditions and culture of the village
The Sillico bandits in Ariosto's Garfagnana... at dinner time
The village's flagship event, born in 1998 from an idea by Dr. Roberto Nobili. Historical and gastronomic reenactment of Renaissance customs, with music, performances, and typical cuisine. The key figure is the Moro of Sillico, a legendary brigand.
Trails & Flavors
Gastronomic trekking along the 'Moro Trails'. A great opportunity to discover local products in the chestnut woods. Born in 2023, it takes place twice a year. Online reservation only.
Divini & Sapori
Two evenings for fine dining and wine lovers in the beautiful setting of Palazzo Carli. Limited availability, reservation required, FISAR guided tasting.
Trekking to the Lame of Capraia with lunch at the Shepherds' Festival
Discover the forests connecting Sillico to the Apennine ridge. Lunch at Lame di Capraia with music, games, and typical food.
San Lorenzo Concert by the G. Verdi Philharmonic of Sillico
Traditional summer concert of the Sillico band, active since 1898. Free entry in the main square from 9:00 PM.
17th Painting Extemporaneous
Painting competition open to all for the best representation of the village. Works will be exhibited and awarded in the main square.
What to See
Historical and artistic evidence of a village rich in memory and traditions
Palazzo Carli
A fascinating historical residence housing a precious collection of period clocks and local life memories. The palace originally belonged to the wealthy family of Maria Teresa Pellini. Restored in the early 2000s, it hosts art exhibitions. The lower floor offers an atmosphere of other times with its large kitchen and stone fireplace.
Church of San Lorenzo
Located in the village center, this parish church dedicated to St. Lawrence Martyr dates back to 1168. It features seven wooden altars and a unique organ built by the Turrini brothers. In 1909 it was elevated to the rank of Priory.
Remains of the Walls
The remains of the city walls, perfectly preserved in the northern part, include a 15th-century watchtower. Inside the fortress is another square tower dating back to the 12th-13th century: the Sillico castle tower. A restoration project is currently in development.
Church of San Giuseppe
Consisting of a small oratory dedicated to St. Joseph, originally owned by the Carli counts. It features the Carli family crest in white marble. Restored in 1997, it's also known as the Church of San Rocco. Inside is a 17th-century wooden tabernacle.
Restaurants and Hospitality
Authentic flavors and warm welcome in the pulsating heart of Garfagnana
Locanda Belvedere di Roberta e Clara
Casa vacanze le Muse
Agriturismo Il Collettino
Sillico Relais del Borgo
La Dimora dell'Abramo
Villa Loris
Casa La Luna
Eremo San Lorenzo
Contacts
We are here to make your experience in Sillico unforgettable