Borgo a Mozzano is the first town one encounters in the Serchio Valley area, in the province of Lucca, famous for the mysterious and fascinating Devil's Bridge, a symbol of the village that attracts many tourists and curious people to the area. The bridge was built by Matilda of Canossa and its origins are linked to a legend: to explain the marked asymmetry of its arches, it is said that the structure was built with the help of the devil, who in return would demand the soul of the first person to cross it. According to the story told, the inhabitants made a goat and not a human being pass over the inaugural footbridge so as to circumvent the agreement. Out of spite, the devil would then change the width of the arches incongruously. In the hamlet, the oldest and most worthwhile part of the town is organized around three main streets, where medieval palaces, vegetable gardens, and gardens face each other. It continues with the 12th-century Church of San Pietro. There are a number of ancient churches around the village, including the Church of San Jacopo, which has an imposing bell tower and preserves a fine baptismal font from 1590 and several groups from the Della Robbia school. Also worth admiring are the Convent of San Francesco, with its Baroque Church and splendid 16th-century cloister, and the Pieve di Santa Maria Assunta, in the hamlet of Diecimo. The visit can be concluded with the panoramic view from the Bargiglio Tower, on the mountain of the same name. In addition to the local historical and artistic sights, it is possible to participate in the many events held throughout the year. In April, for example, there is the Azalea Biennial, a market exhibition for those who love the world of flowers. Also characteristic is the Codfish Festival, organized every May 1 in the hamlet of Anchiano. Also not to be missed is the Halloween Celebration, the largest and scariest in Italy, accompanied by attractions, concerts, interactive games and re-enactments. Of particular interest, especially for returning emigrants interested in rediscovering their cultural roots, is the festival that the village dedicates to the Madonna dei Ferri in mid-July. Another fundamental aspect of local cultural roots is gastronomy: linked to the centuries-old pork-butchering tradition of the Garfagnana is a cured meat obtained exclusively using the pig's head, namely Biroldo. Also worth trying are products made with Farina di Neccio DOP, which is derived from chestnuts. Traditions and flavors of Borgo a Mozzano tell, along with its legends, the crafts of the past, rural life and the history of Tuscany.
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