Top 10 Natural Monuments around Larciano

The holm oak of Faltognano is a monumental tree that is over a century old and is located near the church of Santa Maria Assunta in Faltognano, in the municipality of Vinci in the province of Florence. It is a specimen of holm oak (Quercus ilex) that has a trunk circumference of 4.60 m, is 11 m tall and dates back to before 1750 according to the inventory of monumental trees of Tuscany (progressive n°47). Over time it has undergone numerous prunings and interventions that have partially reduced its size and grandeur and altered its shape, which was once more dome-shaped. The plant has suffered from fungal attacks in recent decades and requires periodic care; at the moment various safety systems have been installed such as ropes, supports and a railing around the trunk to prevent branches from falling and limit access. In 2007 it received the Touring Club Award, an award announced by the TCI consuls of Tuscany for monumental trees. It is the symbol of the community of Faltognano and is located a short distance from the birthplace of Leonardo Da Vinci and the center of the city of Vinci; a center that can be seen inside the wonderful panoramic view that can be enjoyed from the foot of the tree.

From the main path, a track branches off to the southwest that is easily accessible by bike (signs) and quickly leads to this large erratic boulder.

It is a beautiful and quite technical tour, especially the single trek Mario but also the Merlino asks... to be done in the sense that I did it. Otherwise I find it very difficult uphill..

Devil's Boulder. It is a particular monolith located on the edge of a plateau surrounded by centenary holm oaks, similar - with smaller dimensions - to the so-called Etruscan Pyramid of Bomarzo. On the boulder there are writings that probably date back to a couple of centuries ago and indecipherable signs but what is most striking are the deep grooves perhaps due to uses and rituals that are lost in the mists of time. It is called "The Devil's Boulder" and is surrounded by centuries-old holm oaks in the Pietramarina woods, one of the most mysterious environments of Montalbano. The boulder is located near an area occupied by an Etruscan settlement, perhaps a sacrificial altar renamed "of the devil" by Christians to exorcise its pagan affiliation or, as a legend has it, "of the devil" because the devil left the the imprint of his hoof. However, the “Masso di Pietramarina” makes this corner of Montalbano suggestive and mysterious. It was also in a strategic position, given that from the top it is possible to see the sea.

It is truly a beautiful place nestled in the woods and where there is a bit of history with the monumental vineyard.

Just a nice place!

Today 9/9/2023 not a drop of water came out 🥵

This small space in Montalbano is a real treasure that enriches the wonderful trails in the area. It is easily accessible and is located in a small square surrounded by nature. You can climb the rock to breathe deeply and admire the evocative atmosphere that envelops the place from its top. There are also a couple of chairs and a small table, perfect for a break. If you are passing by the mountain, I highly recommend you pay a visit.