Yet another city in the list of Castruccio's military exploits. (269)

Another city in the list of Castruccio's military exploits.  This city must not exist (at least anymore) because I can't find more information on it. (269)

Another city in the list of Castruccio's military exploits. (269)

Yet another city in the list of Castruccio's military exploits. (269)

It's known for its leather, shoe, and manufacturing industries, but its population recently started decreasing.

Another city on the list of Castruccio's military exploits. (269)

Pontremoli translates to "trembling bridge," named after a main bridge crossing the Magra river.  Its mountainous terrain in the Magra river valley made the city a target of many military conquests throughout history.

This town was in the list of Castruccio's military exploits. (269)

Sarzana borders the sea on the west side of Italy and sits at the entrance of the Magra (a main Italian river), making it an important military location during the Middle Ages.  Below is the Fortress of Sarzana:

The people of Pistoia gave power to the abbot of Pacciana, who betrayed them by turning in the Florentine ambassadors and giving Castruccio many of their strong-holds and towers.  This was an easy territory-grab for Castruccio because he had other people in power working with him.

"Castruccio was possessed of the fortresses placed on the mountain which overlooked the town, where he hovered, like a hawk over his prey, ready to pounce, delaying only for the destined minute." (370)

The head of the government in Pisa was decapitated, and the town gave way to bloody warfare.  "At this moment Castruccio appeared with his army on the hill of St. Giuliano: this sight pacified the combatants; they elected a new lord, and turned their powers towards resisting the common enemy." (370)

His mere presence placated the townspeople, showing the power and respect Castruccio commanded.

While Florence had sent their best troops to Genoa as reinforcements, Castruccio sieged their city.

“Now, without declaring war, or in any way advising them of their peril, he suddenly made an incursion into their territory, burning and wasting their land as far as Empoli, taking several castles, and carrying off an immense booty; he then retreated back to Lucca.” (282)