Casola, originally known as Casuli in Roman times, is a small and charming village considered the gateway to the Apuan Alps Park from the Lunigiana side. Perched on a rocky spur along the upper course of the Aulella River and near the Tassonaro stream, Casola offers wild, scenic views and spans a territory that embraces both the Apennine and Apuan mountain ranges, lying along the border between Lunigiana and Garfagnana.
Once owned by the Malaspina family of Fosdinovo, Casola maintained a close connection with the community of Fivizzano from the 15th to the 19th century. In 1841, it became part of the Duchy of Modena, and in 1859 it was included in the Province of Massa-Carrara, officially adopting its current name in 1863.
The Town Hall houses the Museum of the Upper Valley of the Aulella, which features Paleolithic artifacts. Along the ancient road leading to Garfagnana stands the historic Hospital of San Nicolao di Tea. Nearby, the Romanesque churches in Codiponte and Offiano, along with picturesque villages such as Regnano, Ugliancaldo, and Castiglioncello, are all well worth a visit.
Nature lovers can begin their explorations of both the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines National Park and the Apuan Alps Regional Park from this scenic and historically rich location.
