Barga: The Scottish Village of Garfagnana

Thanks to its strong ties with Scotland, due to 20th-century emigration, the village of Barga is one of the most fascinating in Garfagnana, in the province of Lucca.

What to See in Barga

The historic center of Barga has preserved its medieval layout (12th–14th century), with a network of alleys and irregular streets. Entry is through Porta Reale, leading to Via del Pretorio and the Conservatory of Santa Elisabetta, a former monastery with works of art from the Della Robbia school and a 15th-century crucifix.

At the highest point stands the Romanesque Cathedral of San Cristoforo, built between the 11th and 16th centuries in alberese stone. It preserves original elements such as medieval holy water fonts, a baptismal font with a statue of St. John the Baptist, a pulpit by the Comacine masters, and a wooden statue of St. Christopher. The surrounding lawn, called Arringo, was once the site of medieval assemblies. Next to it is Palazzo Pretorio, now home to the Civic Museum.

Descending, you reach the Church of the Holy Crucifix, with a late 16th-century façade and richly decorated interiors. From Via della Speranza, Porta Macchiaia leads toward the Apennine woods. Along Via di Mezzo lies Piazza Garibaldi, dominated by Palazzo Balduini (16th century).

Piazza Salvi hosts the Loggia dei Mercanti and Palazzo Pancrazi (now the town hall), in Florentine style. The loggia was built in 1546 for the market established by Cosimo I de’ Medici. The lion on the façade symbolizes Florentine rule.

Next comes Piazza Angelio, elegant and harmonious, and the Teatro dei Differenti (1795). Via di Mezzo is lined with 18th-century noble palaces, including those of the Bertacchi, Pieracchi, and Mordini families. The Baroque Church of the Annunziata (1595) has a Latin cross plan and faux columns. Outside the village, the Church of San Francesco (15th century) preserves glazed terracotta works from the workshop of Andrea Della Robbia.

Events, Culture, and Traditions

Barga is culturally vibrant, especially in summer, when it hosts the Barga Jazz Festival, an international event dedicated to contemporary jazz.

Another traditional event is the Fish and Chips Festival, recalling the historic link with Scotland and celebrating the cultural bond between the two peoples.

Among religious festivities, the Procession of the Dead Christ stands out, held on Good Friday with torchlight processions and traditional chants.

What to See Around Barga

Immersed in the middle Serchio Valley, Barga is an ideal stop to explore the nature of Garfagnana.

Nearby are characteristic villages such as Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, Fornaci di Barga, and Coreglia Antelminelli.

For trekking enthusiasts, the trails of the Apuan Alps Park and excursions to Monte Forato or Monte Pania are unmissable.

Barga is a village shaped by its strong Scottish tradition, yet deeply rooted in Tuscany’s medieval history.

© Hpschaefer