Collodi is a small yet charming village in Tuscany, between the towns of Lucca and Pistoia. Located about 15 kilometers from Lucca, it is a popular stop for travelers exploring the rolling hills and historic towns of Tuscany. But what makes it even more interesting to the eye of its visitors, is its connection to one of Italy’s most beloved literary characters, Pinocchio, along with its own deep historical roots.

The village’s name, Collodi, is derived from the Latin word collis, meaning “hill,” which perfectly describes its topography: built on a steep hillside, Collodi stretches upward in a series of medieval stone buildings and winding streets. The name also became famous due to Carlo Lorenzini, the author of The Adventures of Pinocchio, who adopted “Collodi” as his pen name.