The earliest documents on Coreglia date from the 10th century, when it was a feudal domain of the Rolandinghi family, Lords of the southern Garfagnana; it was then transformed into a stronghold by the Antelminelli family of Ghivizzano and Lucca during the 14th century. The central nucleus of Coreglia still partially preserves the appearance of a medieval fortress

There are two romanesque churches: S. Martino (9th century) and San Michele (12th), this latter shows on its façade a statue of Saint Michael made by Matteo Civitali (1436-1502) and inside there are numerous fourteenth-century frescoes such as an annunciation by a Pisan artist, and a carved processional cross. The bell tower of the Saint Michael church was originally part of the medieval fortress built by the Rolandinghi Family.

The Palazzo Vanni, close to both Casa Mercedes and Casa Dema in via del Mangano, houses the Civic Museum of Coreglia which has a collection of the original plaster-made figurines for which this region became famous. The tradition of working plaster of paris originated in Coreglia Antelminelli between the 16th and 17th centuries and was particularly related to the production of statuettes for Christmas cribs. During the 18th & 19th centuries many figurine makers emigrated, spreading their art throughout the world.

The village of Coreglia Antelminelli rises above woods of chestnut and luxuriant open spaces overlooking the Valley of the Serchio River , flanked to the east by some of the highest peaks of the Appennines and to the west by the spur of the Apuan Alps. Having Coreglia as a base it is easy to reach the Garfagnana, the northernmost region of the Serchio Valley, with its high alpine meadows, ridges, streams, caves and spectacular marble quarries, all perfect areas for walkers and hikers. In the surroundings of Coreglia you can also visit medieval villages still rich in history and traditions, such as Barga, with its ancient Dome and breathtaking landscapes, or Castelnuovo Garfagnana, ruled in the past by an important Italian poet and now a beautiful country town to shop or taste local products. Not to forget the smallest villages, spread on the mountain slopes or on the hill tops, equally attractive and fascinating. Bagni di Lucca with its thermal springs and spa and art-nouveau buildings that attracted politicians, kings and queens, poet and musicians as Byron, Shelley, Dumas, Strauss, Lizst... is a must to visit.