Caprigliola rises on a spur on the Magra valley, dominating the roads of the commerces that went up towards Pontremoli and down to the harbors of Luni and Bocca di Magra. The first news of the "castrum Caprigliola" dates back to the XII century. In 1185, Caprigliola was granted in feud from Emperor Frederick I to Pietro bishop of Luni and his successors. Caprigliola was already summer residence of the Bishops of Luni, of which remain only walled traces, and the elegant cylindrical tower, today still visible. The Episcopalian complex occupies the tall part of the hill, placed side by side by to the imposing structure of the XVIII century church of St. Nicolò.
In 1401, Caprigliola, Albiano and Stadano decided to submit to Florence. In 1556, under Cosimo de Medici, massive fortified walls were built, confirming the strategic role of the suburb. The walled village is well preserved. Caprigliola was erected along the Francigena Road, exactly under a dangerous point to get to the the right bank of the Magra.