Farini
The history of the territory of Farini has its roots in the Middle Ages, and is intimately linked to that of the noble family of the Nicelli. In perennial conflict with the Landi, lords of the nieghbouring Ceno Valley, in the attempt to extend their dominion over the entire valley, the Nicelli were loyal to Charlemagne. Over the centuries they managed to conquer more and more territory, which included not only the present municipality of Farini, but also that of Bettola. These conflicts continued up until the 16th century, when the Farnese became sovereigns of the whole district of Piacenza.
The Nicelli family dates back a long way: according to tradition they are descended from the Roman colonist Marcus Annicius, who built a tower in the locality now known as Aniceto.
In 1441 Filippo Maria Visconti recognised the Magnifica Università della Val Nure, a real Community of the Valley, which not only enjoyed a series of fiscal privileges and exemptions but also a certain autonomy exercised through its own magistrates, subject only to the central authority of Milan. Thirty-eight towns and villages formed part of the Università or Union, among them Groppo Ducale and Rigolo. The institution survived for more than four centuries, up until the foundation of the Kingdom of Italy.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, the poverty of this area, so far from the centres of industrial production, led many of the inhabitants of the valley to move away, down to the plain or abroad, especially to France, in search of work.
![BLACK STONES]( "BLACK STONES")
BLACK STONESSassi Neri, un bacino d’acqua all’interno del fiume stesso, dominato da tre sassoni, luogo ideale per bagni estivi, feste, concerti.
The Roccia Cinque Dita - Five-Finger Rock - is an ophiolitic mass sticking up between the valleys of the Ceno and the Nure in the municipality of Farini. The goal of mountaineers, it is reached from the Pass of the Pianazze.
Monte Lama, 1346 metres high, with its interesting geology and vegetation, can be reached on foot from the Pass of the Pianazze.
Watchtower in the area of FariniAn isolated watch tower in the woods of Mount Burrasca near the hamlet of Cà dell'Oste.![Tower of S Antonino]( "Tower of S Antonino")
Selva di Groppallo (Farini)A crenellated tower that stands in an isolated position in the area of Selva di Groppallo.
The history of the fortress is linked to that of the principal families of the areaThe Rocca or Castle of Pradovera no longer exists but its troubled history is linked to the powerful families of the valley and to significant personalities of local history.
The itinerary, which starts from Pradovera, is for expert hikers. 13 km long, it has an altitude gain of 578 m. Average time: 4 hours and 30 minutes.
A hiking itinerary starting from Mareto at 970 above sea level and climbing to the top of Monte Aserei at 1432 m. This route is for expert hikers: length 10 km, altitude gain 462 mt, average time 3 hours.![Tower of the Ghezzi in Cogno San Bassano]( "Tower of the Ghezzi in Cogno San Bassano")
Towers and fortresses in the area of FariniThe tower of the Ghezzi rises all alone in the district of Cogno San Bassano.
An itinerary that can be followed on foot, on horseback or on mountain bikeThe Via degli Abati is a route linking the monastery of Bobbio to various other localities.
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Itineraries and guided visits
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Traditions and Curiosities
