Museum of the Nativity and Agricultural Activities

Near the border of the village of Usigliano, in the municipality of Casciana Terme Lari, girt by greenery and overlooking the surrounding valleys, is the Antica Fattoria Castelli, a historic property dating back to the late-18ᵗʰ century.

The current owner has managed to exalt the entire complex by restoring its original charm. There’s the large underground cellar dug into tuff, the imposing 19ᵗʰ-century oak barrels, the “coppaio” where olive oil was once stored in traditional earthenware “coppi” pots along with a mill with stone grinding wheel that remained operational until 1975.

These rooms, which have now been perfectly restored, form an evocative museum tour imbued with the atmosphere of the time. 
On display inside are original farming tools and machinery, along with an extraordinary collection of more than 40 nativity scenes, made with meticulous care, imagination and great realism. 
Some are housed inside barrels and vats, a poetic tribute to rural culture, as the custodian—like the nativity scene itself—of universal values that the museum wishes to convey, especially to younger visitors.

The Fattoria Castelli is part of the network of Tuscany’s Small Museums and a member of the national Terre di Presepi (Land of Nativity Scenes) circuit, recognized by the Ministry of Culture.

Visits are free by appointment.