Located in the hills overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, the church of Sant’Eustachio in Montignoso, the parish church of the hamlet of the same name, represents not only a place of worship but a small treasure chest of Renaissance art history. Known as early as the 11th century, its current appearance is Renaissance and is distinguished by its simple and sober architecture, reflecting the elegance typical of Tuscan churches of that era. Inside, it houses a valuable altarpiece dating from the Renaissance, the work of Lucchese masters such as the Master of Stratonice and the Master of the Immaculate Conception. On the other hand, the Madonna and Child between Saints Eustace, John the Baptist, Magdalene and Vitus dates from 1495, with a lunette showing the Eternal Father between two Angels and a predella narrating the vicissitudes of Saint Eustace: this is a work by Vincenzo Frediani, one of the greatest artists active in Lucca at the time. Also present is a 14th-century wooden Madonna and Child by a follower of Giovanni Pisano.
The figure of Saint Eustace, an ancient general of Trajan’s army who converted to Christianity after a miraculous encounter during a hunting trip, is celebrated in the church’s artistic representations.
In addition, every year on May 20, St. Eustatius comes alive for the feast of its patron saint. Celebrations include solemn masses, Eucharistic processions, and the organization of craft markets and local products. This festival not only strengthens the bond between the local community and the parish church of Sant’Eustachio, but also provides an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of the Apuan region.