Ceserana Fortress and Church of Saint Andrew (Rocca di Ceserana e Chiesa di Sant’Andrea)

In the absence of stratigraphic studies that would help to establish a reliable chronology to the different phases of growth and transformation of the Cesarana fortress, it can be assumed that the foundation of the building dates back to the 10th-11th centuries with significant additions dating back to the 14th and especially the 15th centuries, when the building also incorporated the functions of the administrative headquarters of the peripheral government of the Este family. The fortress, which has undergone restoration in the recent past, is a small settlement consisting of the approximately circular fortified structure with curtain walls equipped with small embrasures, at the centre of which is the Romanesque church of Sant’Andrea, bell tower and sacristy.

The monumental complex is well preserved and its very favourable landscape location makes it one of the most interesting small late medieval fortified centres in the Serchio valley.