This is a circular walk through woods of chestnut trees which takes in the ancient Toppole Castle and the “Camaldolese di Badia San Veriano� Abbey. You can discover the rural, peasant lifestyle that until the middle of the last century was prevalent in this area.

Toppole castle formed part of the fortifications used to defend the right side of the Sovara Valley. In the centre of the village is the Church of San Clemente, although now greatly changed. Already known to exist from the first half of the X11 century, some recently discovered tombs support the theory that its history dates back even further. You can no longer see the original shape of the fortifications; today there are only a few rural buildings.

From the ancient building, take the steep path 10 that goes up towards Monte Veriano. After about 50 minutes you arrive at a crossroads, turn left and continue upwards towards the ancient abbey. On the way up to the right you can observe the valley of the River Cerfone, whilst to the left lies the Valtiberiana. Around 20 minutes is required to arrive at the Abbey Camaldolese di Badia San Veriano, which dates back to the end of the X1 century. Its elevated position (760 m) enjoys panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The church consists of a central nave including three apses, with an original crypt beneath the presbytery which date back to the original building, although rebuilt in the 18th century. Nothing remains of the monastery.

Having admired the ancient abbey, you can linger at the top of mount Veriano (770m above sea level.), from which, if lucky with the weather, you can see the whole of the Valtiberina in all its natural beauty.

Having enjoyed this splendid panorama rejoin the walk continuing along path 10 that turns right before the church. The roads starts to go down and after about 750m to the right there is a turning which leads to Poggio Cul di Paiolo (550m. above sea level) passing through splendid groves of chestnut trees, but be careful not to pick them as the owners will not be pleased!

Once you have arrived at Cul di Paiolo  take the road that comes from the hamlet of Tortigliano and which will lead to the centre of Toppole, by walking along part of path 106.