Not far from Bagni di Lucca is the lovely hilltop town of Ghivizzano. At the gateway to the magnificent Garfagnana, the town dates back to the 900s.
The town is dominated by the castle on top of the hill. The arched entrance at lower end of town takes you through covered alleyways and through winding cobblestone streets up to the church and castle.
Of course, the views are beautiful from the high position.
We wandered slowly upwards.
We were there on the day of a festival in the courtyard in front of the castle…a perfect place to hold an archery competition in full costume.
It is possible to climb the tower at the castle, so of course we did.
Keep an eye out for festivals at Ghivizzano. The castle is a great venue and it really gives you an idea of life in different times.
Bella Bagni di Lucca 
Totally agree, Debra, Ghivizzano is a wonderful town, full of character. The festival was most interesting and we look forward to attending it again next year… although this time I will bring a parasol or a big hat and a fan. It was really hot!
Ghivizzano is lovely. I sing in its choir. Here is a wedding we sang at:
http://longoio2.wordpress.com/2014/08/03/triumph-at-ghivizzano-castello/
There was also a great arts show see
http://longoio2.wordpress.com/2014/07/01/ghivizzano-arts-castle/ for more details.
I smile as I read this as it was such a fun day. Your photos are great. Have a great flight today
Looks like another wonderful day out Deb….every festival in these georgeous little village have so much to offer.
The detail in their costumes is quite extraordinary. The costumes worn by some of the women must make them feel very feminine – I would be wanting to swish about and practice my swooning. I love the urn shaped pot with what looks like geraniums in the photo under “the high position” sentence.