Maremma

Dante Alighieri described, in ist masterpiece "La Divina Commedia", Maremma as the coast between Cecina (Livorno) and Cornero (Civitavecchia). This territory, that was in the past marshland and unhealthy, was drained at the beginning of this century, except the area around the lake Burano (oasis of WWF) or the marsh of Trappola (Parco dell'Uccellina), where during the migratory period (October-March) the birds stopped for a short time. Massa Marittima, old metallurgical centre, is rich of interesting monuments as the palace Pretorio and the Duomo, and houses important cultural events (Balestro del Girifalco, summertime opera season). Here you can visit the volcanic lake called dell'Accesa, that was remembered in the past by the Roman geographer Strabone, and take a bath at sunset after have admired in the surroundings the interesting archaeological
excavations. Others Etrurian places are Vetulonia and Roselle where in the Roman amphitheatre during summertime concerts and shows are performed. Saturnia, an elegant and small village of this area, is famous for its spa. Not far from here in Magliano and Manciano you can taste in the old villages the traditional maremmana cooking. The lovers of aquatic sports will find in Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole (Cala Galera), in the Argentario area, seaside resorts with ample facilities. Punta Ala, an exclusive and elegant golf centre, is famous for its polo tournaments and horse shows. San Vincenzo, Follonica, Castiglione della Pescaia, Talamone offer to the tourist wonderful beaches, Capalbio on the contrary offer you relaxing horse riding in a magnificient scenary so as the in the Park dell'Uccellina (Cala di Forno).