Aulla

Aulla is a comune in the Italian region of Tuscany, located in the province of Massa-Carrara in the historic area of Lunigiana, along the Magra river. It lies at the foot of the Apennines and is one of the principal towns in Lunigiana.

The municipality covers a hilly and river valley territory and includes several frazioni. The landscape is typical of Lunigiana, with olive groves, small forests, and agricultural fields. The surrounding area is known for its natural beauty as well as historical trails and rural architecture.

Historically, Aulla’s origins trace to the Middle Ages, when a fortress associated with the Malaspina family gave the settlement strategic importance along the Magra valley. The castle and surrounding walls formed the core of the town, which served as a waypoint for travellers and merchants moving between the coast and the inland. In later centuries the town became part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany and developed within Lunigiana’s defensive network.

Main sights in Aulla include the Castello di Aulla, the medieval city walls, and several churches that reflect the town’s Romanesque and Baroque architectural layers. The historic center preserves a compact urban fabric that illustrates the transition from medieval to early modern periods.

The local economy is based on agriculture—principally olives and cereals—along with small-scale industry and services. Tourism focuses on the historical heritage and the broader Lunigiana landscape, including its castles, rivers, and rural scenery.