Maremma is the region between Lazio and Tuscany and has three macro-areas. It is the ancient land of the Etruscans, nestled between the sea and the mountains. The area is dotted with graceful hills from which tourists can enjoy enchanting views.
Dante, in the Divine Comedy, identified the boundaries between “Cecina and Corneto”. A unique feature of the Maremma is the variety of its territorial landscapes. From crystal clear seas and long beaches to mountains covered with dense woods. It also boasts lakes and flat areas, green cultivated hills and natural thermal areas. It’s truly a timeless area, which has its roots in ancient civilizations.
Here, the Etruscans and subsequently the Romans prospered for centuries, leaving important evidence, as evidenced by the Etruscan cities of Populonia and Roselle.
Then came the Aldobrandeschi who ruled in the Middle Ages, leaving high towers, castles and fortified villages such as Santa Fiora and Sovana. Even the Medici and the Lorraine families lived in these lands, as the mighty Medici walls of Grosseto remind us. In fact, it was the Medici who began the reclamation of the Maremma, which ended after the Second World War.
Enjoy Traditional Italian Culture in Maremma
It is not only the culture and landscape which makes this area attractive. Maremma is also full of typical Italian products to taste and savor with a good glass of wine. If you are on a trip never forget to take the wine tour of Tuscany. You will definitely have a fantastic time enjoying wines in Maremma.
Seascapes and mountains blend perfectly into the typical dishes of this area such as acquacotta, a typical dish of the lower Maremma. It derives from the typical lunch of the cowboys when they went into the open countryside following the herds. It is a delicious soup whose main ingredients are stale bread, olive oil and a variety of local vegetables.
Another place that deserves to be seen is Scansano, famous all over the world for its fine Morellino wine. The vineyards and wineries are the soul of this area. As a tourist, it is imperative to have a tasting of the prestigious wine in one of the wine bars or cellars in the area. You should also make an interesting visit to the Scansano vine and wine museum.
A walk in the historic center of the town, full of medieval buildings and splendid views of the surrounding countryside, is strongly recommended.
The Etruscan settlement of Ghiaccioforte is an important historical find about 12km from Scansano. These are the remains of an ancient settlement from the 4th century BC. Today, it is possible to see in some places the 4m thick walls that protected the population and the temple. You can admire the many bronzes too at the archaeological museum of Scansano.
The settlement extends over three hills. In addition to pottery and weapons, horse harnesses, carpentry tools, amphorae for storing water, wine, and oil have also been found. Ghiaccioforte is a magical place that exudes a mystical atmosphere and offers a unique and fascinating naturalistic spectacle.
Things To Do in Maremma
One of the most evocative places to visit is the Uccellina Natural Park which stretches over 10,000 hectares and extends over the Tyrrhenian coast. The central and southern part is occupied by the Uccellina Mountains which are the highest points in the whole Poggio dei Lecci region.
From these hills, there are excellent views across the Tyrrhenian Sea and coastline. The islands of Giglio, Elba and Corsica visible in this unsurpassed panorama. You can also see the gorgeous Ombrone river which snakes into the sea. The dark waters gradually mix with the green of the sea creating a spectacular view.
Another unmissable place on a tour of Maremma Toscana is Daniel Spoerri’s Garde. It is an artistic park located in the municipality of Seggiano which opened to the public in 1997. The park-garden extends over a property of about 16 in a location geographically indicated with the name of Paradise.
It’s a unique artistic park and it is constantly evolving thanks to the dedication of the eclectic Swiss artist. The sculptures harmoniously blend into a landscape of olive and chestnut trees, Mediterranean scrub.
Along the paths of the park you can discover the founder’s striking bronze sculptures such as the ‘Chambre Nr 13’ weighing over 5 tons. There are also quirky features such as sofas made of grass, a golden olive tree and gigantic drummers followed by 160 geese. Other mysterious figures include fire-breathing dragons, all displayed in a rich setting between the dream world and reality.
Visiting The Tuscan Hot Springs
Maremma Toscana is famous also for its thermal springs. In the heart of the Ombrone Valley, you’ll discover one of the most famous thermal springs in Tuscany.
Already known in Roman times, the Petriolo baths were frequented by important personalities. Some of which include Cicero, Pope Pius II and the Medici and Gonzaga families.
The name Petriolo dates back to the Middle Ages (from petria – wooden funnel) due to its funnel-like shape. As is visible from the ruins near the thermal spring, Petriolo represents in history a very rare case of “fortified baths”. In fact, the residual stumps of walls belong to the ancient “Castello di Petriolo” defensive structure.
The thermal waters consist of hydrogen sulfide, free carbon dioxide, calcium and fluorine. They flow from the source at a warm temperature of 43°C. Thanks to the high temperature of the water, the natural thermal baths of Petriolo are perfect for any season of the year, even in the coldest months.
Classic Tuscany can design you a tour around your tastes and preferences. Get in touch with our Tuscany travel experts to start planning. Visit our tours page to view our predesigned Puglia itineraries.
