Massa Marittima
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Latest page update: 17 February 2025
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By Dion Protani
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The hill town of Massa Marittima is situated in the province of Grosseto. With a population of around 8,000 residents, it is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Cathedral of San Cerbone and the Palazzo Pretorio.
The town is famous for its annual Balestro del Girifalco, a historical crossbow competition dating back to the 13th century. |
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Massa Marittima: Maremma hill town
Positioned amidst the rolling hills of Tuscany, Massa Marittima enchants visitors with its timeless beauty and rich history. Dominating the skyline is the majestic Cathedral of San Cerbone, a masterpiece of medieval architecture adorned with intricate details and stunning frescoes.
Wander through the charming streets lined with centuries-old buildings, discovering hidden gems around every corner. Explore the Piazza Garibaldi, a bustling square surrounded by quaint cafes and artisan shops, perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere. Nearby, the stunning coastline beckons with pristine beaches and azure waters, while the rugged Maremma countryside offers hiking trails and vineyard tours, ensuring an unforgettable Tuscan experience.
Wander through the charming streets lined with centuries-old buildings, discovering hidden gems around every corner. Explore the Piazza Garibaldi, a bustling square surrounded by quaint cafes and artisan shops, perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere. Nearby, the stunning coastline beckons with pristine beaches and azure waters, while the rugged Maremma countryside offers hiking trails and vineyard tours, ensuring an unforgettable Tuscan experience.
Comune di Massa Marittima
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Province: Grosseto
Region: Tuscany Population: 8,167 (in 2024 - source) Size: 284 km² Elevation: 380 metres Close by: Roccatederighi, Follonica, Abbey of San Galgano, Prata Recommended hotel: Massa Vecchia |
What are the best things to do in Massa Marittima?
- Massa Marittima Cathedral: Visit the imposing Massa Marittima Cathedral, known for its stunning Gothic architecture, intricate façade, and beautiful interior. Guided tours offer insights into the cathedral's history, art, and religious significance, including its impressive frescoes and sculptures.
- Piazza Garibaldi: Explore the charming Piazza Garibaldi, the main square of Massa Marittima, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops. Visitors can admire the medieval Palazzo Comunale, the Fountain of Abundance, and the Cathedral of San Cerbone while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the square.
- Mining Museum: Discover the rich mining heritage of Massa Marittima at the Mining Museum (Museo delle Miniere). Guided tours provide insights into the town's mining history, techniques, and the importance of minerals such as cinnabar. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring mining artifacts, equipment, and interactive displays.
- Alta Maremma Archaeological Museum: Visit the Alta Maremma Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico di Massa Marittima) to learn about the area's ancient Etruscan and Roman civilizations. Guided tours offer access to archaeological finds, including pottery, coins, and artifacts from nearby excavation sites.
- Historic Walking Tours: Join guided walking tours of Massa Marittima's historic center, led by knowledgeable local guides. Visitors can explore the town's medieval streets, alleyways, and hidden corners, discovering architectural gems, historical landmarks, and hidden treasures along the way.
- Culinary Experiences: Indulge in Tuscan cuisine with food tours and tastings that showcase local specialties such as tortelli maremmani (Maremma-style ravioli), acquacotta (vegetable soup), and wild boar dishes. Visitors can sample delicacies at traditional trattorias, wine bars, and gourmet shops while experiencing Massa Marittima's culinary traditions.
Where should I eat in Massa Marittima?
- Il Glicine: Located in the heart of Massa Marittima's historic center, Il Glicine is a charming restaurant known for its warm ambiance and delicious Tuscan dishes. The menu features a variety of homemade pastas, grilled meats, and fresh seafood, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine indoors or on the outdoor terrace overlooking the picturesque streets of the town.
- Il Vecchio Frantoio: Situated in a beautifully restored olive oil mill just outside of Massa Marittima, Il Vecchio Frantoio offers a unique dining experience in a rustic setting. The restaurant specializes in traditional Tuscan cuisine, with dishes such as pici pasta with wild boar ragu, grilled meats, and hearty soups. Guests can enjoy their meal in the cozy dining room or on the outdoor terrace surrounded by olive trees.
- Trattoria da Paolino: This family-run trattoria is located near Massa Marittima's main square and offers a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. The menu features classic Tuscan dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, including homemade pastas, hearty stews, and grilled meats. Guests can also choose from a selection of local wines to accompany their meal.
- Osteria del Vecchio Borgo: Nestled in a historic building in the center of Massa Marittima, Osteria del Vecchio Borgo is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The restaurant serves traditional Tuscan cuisine with a modern twist, using ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers. Dishes include creative interpretations of classic favorites, as well as a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
- Ristorante La Tana dei Brilli: Located just a short walk from Massa Marittima's main attractions, La Tana dei Brilli offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring a mix of traditional and innovative dishes. Guests can enjoy Tuscan specialties such as ribollita soup, bistecca alla fiorentina, and homemade desserts, all served with a selection of local wines.
Massa Marittima Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Massa Marittima?
- Park Hotel La Fenice: Located just a short distance from Massa Marittima's historic center, Park Hotel La Fenice offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
- Agriturismo Poggio Corbello: Situated in the countryside near Massa Marittima, Agriturismo Poggio Corbello offers cozy rooms and apartments in a peaceful setting surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Guests can enjoy homemade meals made with local ingredients, as well as wine tastings of the farm's own wines.
- Hotel Duca Del Mulino: Located just outside Massa Marittima, Hotel Duca Del Mulino offers comfortable accommodations in a historic building surrounded by gardens. Guests can stay in spacious rooms with modern amenities, relax by the outdoor swimming pool, and dine at the hotel's restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
- B&B La Locanda del Minatore: Situated in the historic center of Massa Marittima, B&B La Locanda del Minatore offers cozy accommodations in a beautifully restored medieval building. Guests can stay in charming rooms with antique furnishings, enjoy a complimentary breakfast, and explore the town's attractions on foot.
- Agriturismo Il Leccio: Located a short drive from Massa Marittima, Agriturismo Il Leccio offers rustic-chic accommodations in a restored farmhouse surrounded by woods and fields. Guests can stay in comfortable rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade meals made with organic ingredients, and relax in the garden or by the swimming pool.
What's the closest airport to Massa Marittima?
Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA):
Florence Airport (Peretola) (FLR):
- Located in Pisa, approximately 115 kilometers northwest of Massa Marittima.
- Galileo Galilei Airport serves domestic and international flights.
- From the airport, you can reach Massa Marittima by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Massa Marittima takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be costly for long distances. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Pisa Centrale Train Station and then catch a train to Follonica Train Station. From Follonica, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach Massa Marittima.
Florence Airport (Peretola) (FLR):
- Located in Florence, approximately 140 kilometers northeast of Massa Marittima.
- Florence Airport serves domestic and international flights.
- From the airport, you can reach Massa Marittima by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Massa Marittima takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station and then catch a train to Follonica Train Station. From Follonica, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach Massa Marittima.
What's the closest train station to Massa Marittima?
Follonica Train Station:
- Located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Massa Marittima.
- Follonica Train Station is served by regional trains connecting Florence, Pisa, and other nearby cities.
- From Follonica Train Station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach Massa Marittima. The journey takes around 30 minutes by bus or taxi.
What private transfer options are there for Massa Marittima?
A private transfer from Pisa Airport to Massa Marittima takes around one hour 20 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Massa Marittima?
- Grosseto: Since Massa Marittima is located near Grosseto, you can consider renting a car from one of the car rental agencies in Grosseto. Grosseto is a larger city with more rental options available, including at the train station and the airport.
- Regional Airports: You could also consider looking for rental options at airports such as Florence Airport (Peretola) or Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei), though they are further away from Massa Marittima. Some rental agencies may offer shuttle services to pick up your rental car from the airport.
