In the heart of Tuscan Romagna, a few kilometres from Forlì, lies an area that holds beauty, history and well-being: Castrocaro Terme and Terra del Sole. A scattered municipality in the province of Forlì-Cesena, it has just over 6,500 inhabitants and consists of three main nuclei: Castrocaro Terme, Land of the Sun and the fraction of Pieve Salutare.
A borderland and meeting point of cultures, Castrocaro has a very ancient history and a unique identity, forged over time by the influence of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, of which it is now administratively a part.
A thousand-year history
The territory of Castrocaro Terme and Terra del Sole is deeply linked to the history of the Tuscan Romagna, a border region that was part of the province of Florence until 1923. Here time has left evident traces: castles, walls, Renaissance palaces and medieval villages that tell of the glorious past of a strategic area for the control of the Montone valley.
The ancient castle of Castrocaro is documented as early as 961, when re Otto I of Saxony stopped there during his imperial travels. A flourishing centre developed around this fortress, which experienced the rule of the Ordelaffi family, the Church and, above all, the Republic of Florence, which established an important military and administrative garrison there.
To strengthen the defence and organisation of the territory, in the 16th century the Florentines founded Land of the Suna true Renaissance 'ideal city', conceived according to avant-garde military and urban planning criteria. Its regular layout, imposing fortifications and the presence of administrative and religious buildings make it a unique example in Italy and Europe of 16th century fortified architecture.
Symbols and identity
The rich past is also reflected in the civic symbols of the municipality. Lo coat of arms has very ancient origins: as early as 1080, the Pagani family used a blue lion on a silver field. Over the centuries, the blazon underwent numerous changes according to the rulers: red crosses on a white field, black eagles crowned with palm branches (symbol of imperial power), and finally the colours and emblems of the Medici of Florenceincluding the famous six balls and the red lily.
The current coat of arms merges the two identity elements of the municipality: the red cross symbol of Tuscan Romagna, and the radiant sun, the shield of Terra del Sole. It is a Samnite shield party, with on the left a silver background and a full red cross, and on the right a red background with a radiant golden sun, surmounted by a ducal crown and adorned with laurel and oak branches.
Also the banner reflects this identity: white and red background, coat of arms in the centre, the words 'Comune di Castrocaro Terme e Terra del Sole' at the top, symbols of a community proud of its history.
Artistic and architectural heritage
The area offers a remarkable architectural heritageranging from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, from religion to administration.
Religious architecture
The main sacred buildings include:
- Church of Saints Nicholas and Francisdating back to the 15th century, with important paintings by the Master of Castrocaro;
- Church of St Nicholas e Church of St Francis Xavier (or of the Fallen), in the historic centre;
- Church of San Giovanni della Murataalso known as the Baptistery, dating from the 14th century;
- Church of San Roccowith tombs of the noble families Giovannini and Conti;
- Parish Church and Parish Church of Santa Reparatain the heart of Terra del Sole, authentic jewels of Renaissance religious architecture.
Civil and military architecture
- Fortress of Castrocaroone of the oldest in Italy, now houses a historical-archaeological museum that recounts the military and civil life of the village over the centuries.
- Praetorian Palaceseat of the Captains of Justice, with its majestic Medici coat of arms;
- Commissioners' Palacesymbol of Florentine administrative power;
- Corbizzi Palaceexample of 14th century civil architecture;
- Fortress of Montepoggiolowhich dominates the surrounding hilly landscape;
- Via Postierla, a picturesque medieval street that still retains the atmosphere of the ancient village.
Wellness and spas
A distinctive element of the area is its spa tradition. The Spa of Castrocarofed by natural springs rich in healing properties, have been renowned since the 19th century. The waters flow along the course of the Cozzi stream, in a quiet valley to the west of the town.
In 1833 and 1835, its beneficial effects were recognised, initiating a course of development that in 1887 led to the construction of the first spa. Today the complex comprises:
- Party Pavilionan authentic Art Nouveau masterpiece with richly decorated rooms;
- Grand Hotel, refined accommodation combining elegance and comfort;
- Thermal Park, a green oasis ideal for relaxation and walks;
- Outdoor thermal poolsperfect for a rejuvenating experience surrounded by nature.
Today, spas are still a driving force for local tourism and a valuable resource for psychophysical well-being.
Nature and Landscape
The territory of Castrocaro Terme and Terra del Sole fits harmoniously into the hilly landscape of Romagna, with green areas and natural environments of great value:
- The Spa Parkperfect for light excursions and relaxing moments;
- The hilly areas of Pietramora, Ceparano e Rio Cozzirecognised as Sites of Community Interest for biodiversity;
- L'WWF Oasis Gregorinaa refuge for protected flora and fauna, ideal for educational activities and nature visits.
Culture and museums
Castrocaro is also the custodian of a rich cultural heritage:
- The Fortress History Museumwith exhibits that tell the story of military and everyday life over the centuries;
- The Museum of Man and the Environmentwith thematic routes between tradition, agriculture and nature;
- L'Criminal history archive in the Castello del Capitano di Piazza in Terra del Sole, which preserves judicial acts from the 18th century, a unique historical heritage.
Events and traditions
The vitality of the municipality is also expressed in its many events:
- Palio of Santa Reparata and Tuscan Romagnaspectacular historical re-enactment in costume;
- Patronal feasts in honour of Our Lady of Graces and Our Lady of Flowers;
- The famous Castrocaro Festival - New Voices and New Faceswhich has been launching new talents in Italian music since 1957, broadcast in prime time on the national networks.
An area to experience all year round
Whether you are an art and history enthusiast, a nature lover or in search of relaxation and wellness, Castrocaro Terme and Terra del Sole offers an authentic and emotionally rich experience.
Here you can stroll among centuries-old walls, regenerate at the thermal baths, discover the balance between scenic beauty and cultural heritage. A corner of Italy where time passes more slowly and every detail tells a story.
