In the embrace of music in the Apennines
The second day is set entirely in the Apennines—in Sestola, to be precise, about fifty-five kilometers from Modena (roughly ninety minutes), where the Museum of Mechanical Instruments is located inside the ancient Rocca. You’ll spend the day in a beautiful mountain location and, in addition to visiting the museum, can explore the town and its surroundings. Be sure to take time for a sumptuous lunch of local specialties.
The Rocca or fortress, located on a high spur of rock, is the symbol of Sestola and offers a breathtaking view of the mountains and the entire river plain. After being rebuilt by the city, it became a multipurpose cultural center and is now home to the Museum of Mechanical Instruments, the Museum of the Mountain Dweller, and a series of other permanent exhibits. At the end of your visit, don’t forget to climb to the top of the tower to enjoy the splendid view or visit the adjacent park for a relaxing walk in the healthful air of a pine forest.
First stop: The Museum of Mechanical Instruments
The Museum of Mechanical Instruments was founded in 1995, and its exhibits of musical instruments largely date to the 19th century. About 120 pieces come from the Eduard Thoenes collection, including accordions; pianolas; barrel, player, and carillon pianos; mechanical dolls; and gramophones.
