History and
Traditions

Back to Visit Maremma

The toponym "Maremma" is derived, according to many scholars, from the Latin "maritima," meaning "coastal regions, sea areas." Before the numerous medieval settlements, the Maremma region witnessed prehistoric, Etruscan, and Roman presences that left significant historical and artistic evidence scattered throughout the entire territory.

The Etruscan cities of Populonia, Roselle, and Vetulonia were of great importance.
In the early medieval period, Maremma recorded the presence of one of the most important noble families in central Italy, the Aldobrandeschi counts, who controlled around 100 castles scattered along the hilly region. With the end of feudalism and, especially, the rise of city-states, in the 13th century, Maremma fell under the influence of the Republic of Siena, which, after a few years, also militarily conquered Grosseto and transformed Maremma into a vast paid pasture. Here, the “Dogana dei paschi” was established, which gave rise to the Monte dei Paschi di Siena, a famous bank.
Siena’s dominion over the Grosseto territory continued until the second half of the 16th century when the Medici troops took over, establishing the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. In 1574, Francesco de’ Medici commissioned the construction of a new city wall to make Grosseto an impregnable city. To this day, a significant portion of this structure encloses the historic city center.But starting from the 14th century, human presence in this region has always had to contend with malaria and poverty that decimated the population. This period was one of the darkest historical moments for the Maremma (hence the famous folk song “Maremma amara” which denounced all the harshness of such a rugged territory).
In this context, thanks in part to the settlement plan implemented by Leopold II of Lorraine in the historic reclamation of 1828, which allowed convicts from other Italian states to take refuge in the entire area and live freely, repopulating a territory that had been “uninhabitable” due to the environmental health conditions, the phenomenon of brigandage took shape. Among all, the name of Domenico Tiburzi stands out, who, after more than 20 years of hiding and constant battles against the law, had become one of Italy’s most popular and sought-after outlaws, while at the same time beloved by the population, who considered him a benefactor of the poor. With his death in 1896, it can be said that the era of Maremman brigandage, along with the malarial and depopulated Maremma, came to an end. The land reclamation works continued until the post-World War II period. The last existing marshy area that still exists today and has become a nature reserve is the Diaccia Botrona, the outermost edge of the Padule di Castiglione della Pescaia

Today, Maremma boasts some of the most beautiful villages in Italy:​

Sovana, Sorano e Pitigliano

Located to the east of Saturnia, these three villages are true gems carved into the tuff. Thanks to their scenic positions on volcanic rock outcrops, these villages dominate the surrounding valleys, offering a breathtaking view that is impressive even from a distance.

Talamone

Perched on a promontory overlooking the Gulf of Argentario, facing the Maremma Natural Park, Talamone is a small medieval coastal village that boasts a magnificent panorama stretching from the Tuscan archipelago, from Argentario to the island of Giglio.

Capalbio

Capalbio, nicknamed “the little Athens,” is a destination for thousands of tourists every year. Nestled in nature, it boasts two special points of attraction:

• The WWF oasis of Lake Burano, the first to be established in our country, covers about 400 hectares and hosts a vast variety of birds, mammals and over 500 species of plants.

• The famous “Tarot Garden” created by the Franco-American artist Niki de Saint Phalle, populated with statues inspired by the figures of the major arcana of the tarot cards.

Populonia

Populonia is an ancient Etruscan and Roman city located between the promontory of Piombino and the Gulf of Baratti. Today, you can visit the archaeological park, which houses two Etruscan necropolises in the lower part and an acropolis with temples, buildings, mosaics and streets in the upper part. This place will immerse you in the fascinating history of Etruscan and Roman civilization.

Massa Marittima

Perched at an altitude of 400 meters on the Metalliferous Hills, Massa Marittima offers a breathtaking view of the sea. This elevated position has contributed to the prosperity of the village over the centuries, making it one of the most flourishing centers in the area. As you walk through the streets of the town center, you can immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere and admire the highlights such as the Old Town, the New Town and Borgo.

San Galgano e Chiusdino

Just 35 km south of Siena, in the municipality of Chiusdino, stands the imposing Abbey of San Galgano, built in 1218 by Cistercian monks and left without a roof due to the collapse of its bell tower in 1786. Today, it is a tourist destination, a venue for civil weddings and has been the evocative backdrop for various Italian and foreign films.

A few meters away, we find the hermitage of Monte Siepi where, according to legend, San Galgano withdrew to live as a hermit in 1170. As a symbol of peace, he thrust his sword into the rock, where it remains to this day.

Bolgheri

Bolgheri is one of the most famous villages in Maremma, known for its cypress trees, wine and the verses of Giosuè Carducci. The renowned Cypress Avenue is an icon of Tuscany and is worth admiring. The historic center is a medieval gem, with its narrow streets, artisan shops and wineries. Don’t miss the Church of Saints Giacomo and Cristoforo, Piazza Alberto and the Gherardesca Counts’ Castle.