The Monastery of the White Friars dates back to the 7th century A.D., when it was founded by a Lombard noble as a center of worship. In 1106, on the foundations of the original building, it was rebuilt and dedicated to Saint Michael, becoming part of the historic Abbey of Canossa.

The monastery was managed by the Canons Regular, known as the White Friars for the color of their habits and their strict moral code, which set them apart in the monastic landscape of the time.

In the following centuries, the monastery and the surrounding village passed to the D’Herberia family, who made it their administrative center while preserving the monastery of Saint Michael as the family’s religious and burial site. Monastic life continued until the 16th century, when the arrival of the Malaspina family in Lunigiana brought significant changes to the area. Today, the Parish of Monte dei Bianchi remains an important historical and spiritual landmark.

The crops typical of the surrounding hills have long been a symbol of the area. The parish priests who have guided the local community often took part in agricultural activities as well, assisted by tenant farmers and laborers, helping to keep the traditions of Lunigiana alive.