5 – ZERI (ENG)

Zeri is the westernmost municipality of the Tuscany region and is in Lunigiana, along the ridge of Magra and Vara Valley. In the past, it served as a transit and connection point between the Roman colonies of Luni and Velleia. The Via Regia or Salaria, which crossed its territory, remained of significant importance at least until the 18th century. The discovery of a stele statue and Iron Age ceramics, along with the analysis of certain toponyms, further supports the theory that Zeri was an important road junction since ancient times.

The name Zeri likely derives from the Latin cerri, meaning “oak-like trees,” and it was first mentioned in a document dating back to 972. Historically, the area was under the jurisdiction of Mulazzo, the powerful Malaspina family, and the city of Pontremoli.

Thanks to its isolation, Zeri has preserved both its natural environment and its ancient villages. Today, visitors can admire old farmhouses, churches, small hilltop villages, and hidden mills.

Among Zeri’s natural attractions, the Colombara Waterfall and the Passo dei Due Santi stand out. Additionally, the historic village of Coloretta has retained a unique charm, as if time had stood still.