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Wool and Silk Route

The Wool and Silk Route is an extraordinary journey through history, nature and traditions! The route, approximately 130 km long, connects Prato and Bologna: two historic centers of great cultural value. Bologna, with its canals and the famous Chiusa, was for a long time the capital of silk, while Prato, with its Cavalciotto, mills and fulling mills, is the capital of the wool and textile district. Along the way, you can admire the impressive hydraulic system that contributed to the economic prosperity of these communities, while discovering their industrial heritage.

Crossing two regions rich in history and traditions, this route winds through villages, mountain ranges and valleys. Every step along the way will allow you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines and in the historical and cultural roots of the territories of these two cities, enjoying breathtaking views and meeting people who still preserve ancient traditions and crafts.

The itinerary begins in the suggestive Piazza Duomo of Prato and develops in six stages. The first three stages will take you through Prato, Vaiano and Vernio ,offering you an overview of the wonders of the Tuscan territory. Subsequently, the journey heads towards Emilia Romagna with stops in Castiglione dei Pepoli, Grizzana Morandi, Sasso Marconi and, finally, Bologna.
Get ready for a unique adventure, where history, natural beauty and traditions come together in an unforgettable experience along the Wool and Silk Route!

More information www.viadellalanaedellaseta.com

Technical information Technical information

Total length: 130 km
Total altitude difference uphill: +5430; -5550
Difficulty: medium
Total duration: 6 or more days
Itinerary: 6 stages; 12 Municipalities; 2 Regions

Connections:

What you find in Bisenzio Valley What you find in Bisenzio Valley

The stages in Prato along the Wool and Silk Route allow you to discover the true essence of this region rich in history, culture and natural beauty.

Crossing the Bisenzio river park, you will head towards the majestic Calvana massif, framed by breathtaking views. Along the green meadows of Retaia, you will have the opportunity to admire specimens of the Calvana cattle breed, a living testimony of the local agricultural tradition. A little further on, you will be surprised by the sight of horses in the wild, free to gallop in uncontaminated nature.

Continuing along the route you will reach the Abbey of San Salvatore in Vaiano, an ancient monastery which still preserves the fulling mill tanks and burials dating back to the Lombard era. Continuing the journey you will reach Montepiano, where the marvelous Abbey stands out, a jewel of Romanesque architecture built at the end of the 11th century. You won't be able to resist the mystical atmosphere that surrounds it.

And to complete the experience, don't miss the Gothic Line Memorial Park in Torricella of San Quirico di Vernio, a place that pays homage to the history of the Second World War.