Mirteto

Through rugged climbs and not-too-demanding single track we will first reach the small monastic village of Mirteto at about 280m above sea level, which lies in the furrow marked by the Foce Pannecchia stream on the eastern slope of Mount Faeta above Asciano. The Mirteto complex includes a 12th-century Romanesque-style church dedicated to Santa Maria di Mirteto, which at the time was dependent on the Abbey of San Michele alla Verruca. The building remained active until the 18th century, becoming a private oratory in 1712. It is currently in a state of ruins, but with well-preserved walls and altar. It was the site of a 15th-century Madonna of the Snow, now present in the church of Asciano. The rest of the buildings, including dwellings, ovens and cellars, some of them much more modern, are in a state of decay and neglect. The place name derives from the presence of myrtle plants in the area, at least at the time when the monastery was still inhabited.

?Once we descend towards Asciano we will head to San Giuliano Terme where we will undertake the steep climb on a cemented road that will lead us to the villa of the Polish Sigismondo Bosniascki who, enchanted by the beauty of the rocky Mount Castellare, decided to settle and build his home there.

More imaginative bikers will get to appreciate the all-turning path that will take us back to the valley.