Famous for its military strategic importance (the hilly position made it more defendable against enemy attacks), Santa Maria a Monte has always been disputed between severalTuscan cities. As a matter of fact, Santa Maria a Monte passed from the influence ofLucca under the influence ofFlorence and, in the end, it became part of thePisa territory.A famous landmark is Casa Carducci, where the Italian poetGiosuè Carducci is said to have spent his childhood.
Thelocalità of Falorni has about 120 inhabitants (2005) and is about 80 metres (260 ft) abovesea level. Around Falorni there is a large portion of woods and cultivated areas, especially with olives. The place is situated in the low woody hills called Cerbaie. The only business situated in the village is a restaurant.
