Massa Marittima

Massa Marittima is one of the most charming villages of the Grosseto hinterland, nestled among the Colline Metallifere of the Tuscan Maremma. It stands on an isolated hill about 380 meters above sea level and elegantly dominates the valley of the Pecora River. Its historic center, beautifully preserved and enclosed within an ancient city wall, is an authentic treasure chest of art and history, so much so that it deserves the prestigious Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club.

Origins and history

The town’s history is rooted in distant epochs: traces of settlements dating back to prehistoric and protohistoric times can be found in the area of Lago dell’Accesa, where Etruscan necropolis and dwellings dating between the 9th and 5th centuries B.C. have been found. It was, however, in the Middle Ages, between the 11th and 14th centuries, that Massa Marittima experienced its greatest splendor. Crucial was the transfer of the bishop’s seat from Populonia, which increased its religious and political importance. Having become a free commune in 1225, the town experienced a period of great growth thanks to the wealth extracted from the copper, silver and pyrite mines in the surrounding hills.

Architecture and monuments

The beating heart of the village is Piazza Garibaldi, one of the most striking squares in Tuscany. Here faces the splendid Cathedral of San Cerbone, a masterpiece of Tuscan Romanesque-Gothic architecture, with a deliberately asymmetrical scenic position that enhances its visual impact. Surrounding the square are the Palazzo del Podestà, the Palazzo Comunale, the Loggia del Mercato and, not far away, the ancient Zecca.

Another city symbol is the Fountain of Abundance, a medieval hydraulic work that has become famous for its surprising fresco of the Tree of Fertility, discovered in 1999 during restoration work: a powerful and symbolic image that refers to fertility rites and agricultural auspices.

Climbing toward the “upper town”, we reach the Torre del Candeliere and the Sienese fortress, imposing military buildings from which there is a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire area.

Traditions and culture

Massa Marittima also proudly guards its roots through its traditions. The Balestro del Girifalco, celebrated twice a year (fourth Sunday in May and Aug. 14), is a historical crossbow shooting competition between the three city terzieri: Cittanuova, Cittavecchia and Borgo. The event, dating back to the 14th century, takes place in Garibaldi Square and is accompanied by historical processions, music and colors that evoke the glorious medieval past.

Museums and archaeology

The village is also a major cultural center thanks to the presence of several museums: the Museum of San Pietro all’Orto, which houses works of sacred art; the Mining Museum, which tells the story of mining work; the Archaeological Museum, and the Old Carpentry Shop, a testament to the local craftsmanship tradition. Don’t miss the Accesa Lake Archaeological Park, where you can visit the remains of the Etruscan settlement of La Pesta.

Landscape and food and wine

Massa Marittima is nestled in a harmonious landscape of forests, hills and bodies of water such as Lago dell’Accesa. The surroundings offer trails, minor villages and enchanting views typical of the Maremma. Local food and wine complete the experience: Monteregio di Massa Marittima DOC, a full-bodied and fragrant wine, and extra virgin olive oil are the absolute stars of the table.