Massa Marittima stands on top of a hill overlooking the Gulf of
Follonica. It is called the “Gem of the Middle Ages” for the beauty of
its Romanesque and Gothic buildings and “Massa Metallorum” for the
importance of its mines.
It is a monumental town where everything has
maintained the harmonious proportions of an antique citta' d’arte.
The economic livelihood of the town has always come from the mining,
agriculture and crafts. Only in recent years has tourism come to play an
important role.
Its historical monuments have now been recognized for their value as a
major resourse and Massa Marittima has become one of the most
appreciated towns in the Maremma.
Religious and municipal architecture come together without rivalry in
the Piazza del Duomo.
The Duomo and the Episcopate stand on one side of
the square with the Palaces of the Podesta' and the Town Hall obliquely
opposite. They seem to be avoiding direct confrontation by not facing
one another head on as is usually the case in other Medieval squares.
There are additional splendors surrounding them: the fountains, the
loggie and the Bandini and Biseni palaces.
Strolling through the narrow Medieval streets and the historical center
it is still possible to find shops carrying locally produced handcrafts.
The numerous small restaurants and wine shops offer the visitor genuine
local cooking and wines.
The origins of the town are uncertain, but we know it acquired
importance when the bishop’s seat was transferred from Populonia. It
thrived thanks to the copper and silver mines and in 1225 became “Libero
Comune”, released from its ties as the bishop’s vassal.
In 1335 Siena incorporated it and constructed a formidable fortress
there. After passing under Medici dominion, it flourished once again in
the 19th century under Leopold II because of the revival of mining.
During the summer season, excellent opera productions are staged in the
piazza del Duomo, as well as the centuries old program “Balestro del
Girifalco”.
In addition, the now famous “Toscano fotofestival” (Tuscan
Festival of Photography) is held every year between July and August.
This exhibition presents work by the top photographers, meetings and
discussions on themes connected to photography, screenings and numerous
workshops.
The town’s many museums are open year round to about 60,000 visitors a
year.
Massa Marittima Fortress
Photo © 