Massa Marittima
Massa Marittima è un affascinante borgo medievale della Toscana, arroccato sulle colline che dominano la Maremma grossetana
Ενημερώθηκε στις 19 Ιουλίου 2026
Αυτή τη σεζόν · Ιούλιος · Καλοκαίρι
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Η ιστορία
Η ιστορία του/της Massa Marittima
Introduction and location
Massa Marittima stands on a hill at roughly 400 metres above sea level, inland from the city of Grosseto, within the district known as the Colline Metallifere, or Metal Hills. Its well-preserved historic centre overlooks a landscape of woodland and vineyards that slopes down toward the Tyrrhenian coast, some twenty kilometres away. The town is traditionally divided into the older Città Vecchia and the later Città Nuova. Long a crossroads between inland Tuscany and the Maremma coast, it combines a medieval atmosphere, rolling hill scenery and an identity forged by centuries of mining.
History and origins
The origins of Massa Marittima go back to Etruscan and Roman times, but it was in the Middle Ages that the town reached its peak as a free commune, filling its centre with public and religious buildings. In the fourteenth century it came under Sienese control, which strengthened its fortifications and encouraged expansion into the newer part of town. Much of its wealth came from mining, a tradition reflected in one of Europe's earliest mining law codes, drafted locally. Later centuries, marked by malaria-related decline and periods of recovery, left behind a layered historic centre where different eras still coexist today.
Nature and landscape
The municipal territory spans wooded hills, eroded ridges and rocky outcrops typical of the Colline Metallifere, an area shaped by a long mining and geological history that is now also valued for its natural environment. Among the most evocative spots is Lake Accesa, a small karst lake set in greenery, appreciated for its quiet scenery and for nearby archaeological traces. Holm oak and oak woodlands, hiking trails and wide views over the Maremma complete a natural setting well suited to walking, cycling and nature watching throughout the year.
What to do and see
The focus of any visit is Piazza Garibaldi, overlooked by the Cathedral of San Cerbone, a Romanesque-Gothic building that is the symbol of the town. A short climb leads to the Torre del Candeliere tower and the remains of the Sienese fortress, joined by a distinctive arched walkway. Among the museums, one devoted to sacred art holds notable works, while another traces the area's mining history through galleries and period equipment. Wandering the streets of both the old and new town reveals quiet corners and small workshops, making this a hill town that can comfortably be explored on foot in a single day.
Flavours and traditions
The local cuisine is rooted in Maremma country tradition, built on simple dishes based on game, mushrooms, pulses and meats reared in the surrounding hills. Extra virgin olive oil and wine, including that produced in the Monteregio area, feature on tables and at village festivals throughout the year. Among the most heartfelt events is the Balestro del Girifalco, a historic crossbow competition held in Piazza Garibaldi on two occasions each year, drawing both residents and visitors. Honey, chestnuts and other produce from the surrounding countryside round out a seasonal larder tied closely to the rhythm of the year.
Not to be missed
- Cathedral of San Cerbone in Piazza Garibaldi
- Torre del Candeliere tower and Sienese fortress
- Museum of Sacred Art
- Mining Museum
- Lake Accesa
Αξιοθέατα
What to see in Massa Marittima
Routes · Trovido Route
