Sassetta is an enchanting small centre of Italy which transmits at first sight all the charm of an unspoiled medieval hilltop diamond of Western Tuscany, a destination which in its kind is like a sweet taste of one of the most captivating Italian regions extremely rich in history, culture, art, land of eminent artists as Leonardo, Michelangelo, Brunelleschi,Giotto, Botticelli, cradle of the Renaissance, packed bymarvellous cities, unique and unforgettable landscapes with also its unmistakable picturesque hills packed by olive groves and vines rows as scenic landmarks.
Situated in a scenic and magnificent corner of the province of Livorno not far from the magnificent azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea well known for the striking sandy beaches of the marvellous Costa degli Etruschi, the coast of the Etruscans, Sassetta is a splendid and attractive municipality on an enchanting hilly plateau at 330,0 metres of altitude in the heart of the Val di Cornia, a beautiful valley famous for its fine wines among them the iconic DOC Suvereto well known worlwide for its unique prestige.
That stupendous land connects the Maremma Livornese to the Maremma Grossetana two big plains extremely charming with scattered small centres enclosed between low undulated plateaus and the Mediterranean extending until the the borders of Northern Lazio, a great place for horse riding, a delicious cuisine and very famous for another emblematic wine, the famed Bolgheri Sassicaia.
That fantastic geographic point of the northern central territory of the Italian peninsula is also highlighted by the fascinating presence of the Colline Metallifere , the hills of the metals which name derives for the extraction of minerals since many centuries ago a range of the Tuscan Antiappennine which played an important role in the local economy since the times of the old Etruria adding much more appeal to a stupendous natural frame.
All around Sassetta, the environment is is characterised by captivating scenic landscapes in with a wonderful alternation of romantic cypresses, row of vines, olive groves where every place including the most remote and smallest hamlet has something to narrate because you are in paradise where Medieval and Renaissance art are eternal and constant protagonists.
You can find a tiny village perched on a charming hilly promontory and you will find there something left by a great master and also that is one of the stupendous and fascinating secrets of Tuscany many other lands have not and also for that it is a destination which always leave imprint something to conserve in the most pleasant memories fo ever.
The municipality and all its immediate surroundings including the splendid and historic towns of Castagneto Carducci, Campiglia Marittima, Venturina, Rimigliano and other minor centres scattered until the splendid promontory of Piombino offer a lot of things to do, historical, cultural, and eno gastronomic tourism and just a few kilometres of distance for the joy of all the sea and sun lovers wonderful seaside resorts such as Castiglioncello, Cecina, San Vincenzo and over 90,0 kilometres of an unforgettable coastal stretch with a mild climate all year and many chances to practise several water sports.
That wonderful Tuscan coastline apart its incomparable beauty is extremely famous because it was populated since ancient times by the the Etruscans who established in that geographic area one of their main strongholds Populonia , an emblematic centre cultural developed in Western Tuscany next to the striking Golfo di Baratti, a stupendous Thyrrenian gulf which are further attractions you can plan in your visits during a stay in Sassetta.
That area is in addition a marvellous destination for all those who love cycling on road, mountain bike with fantastic mixed routes and simply great in addition for all those who are fans of a cycle tourism. (in the case you are interested I wrote a post about a cycling route from Castagneto Carducci to Populonia about that).
That area of Livorno province is characterised by very welcoming and friendly people and it offers many chances to spend a very pleasant stay in small Hotels,charming, stylish, captivating and rustic accommodations as beautiful B&B .All that is another incentive knowing the Incoming and Hospitality structures providing comfortable places in a fairytale environment.
Also for that and much more makes that region so special offering next to its unique beauty, that notable opportunity with establishments always ready to satisfy every client who wants comfort, peace,serenity, a delicious local cuisine and a smile every day enjoying the beauty of one of the best places in the world called Tuscany.
Situated in a scenic and magnificent corner of the province of Livorno not far from the magnificent azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea well known for the striking sandy beaches of the marvellous Costa degli Etruschi, the coast of the Etruscans, Sassetta is a splendid and attractive municipality on an enchanting hilly plateau at 330,0 metres of altitude in the heart of the Val di Cornia, a beautiful valley famous for its fine wines among them the iconic DOC Suvereto well known worlwide for its unique prestige.
That stupendous land connects the Maremma Livornese to the Maremma Grossetana two big plains extremely charming with scattered small centres enclosed between low undulated plateaus and the Mediterranean extending until the the borders of Northern Lazio, a great place for horse riding, a delicious cuisine and very famous for another emblematic wine, the famed Bolgheri Sassicaia.
That fantastic geographic point of the northern central territory of the Italian peninsula is also highlighted by the fascinating presence of the Colline Metallifere , the hills of the metals which name derives for the extraction of minerals since many centuries ago a range of the Tuscan Antiappennine which played an important role in the local economy since the times of the old Etruria adding much more appeal to a stupendous natural frame.
All around Sassetta, the environment is is characterised by captivating scenic landscapes in with a wonderful alternation of romantic cypresses, row of vines, olive groves where every place including the most remote and smallest hamlet has something to narrate because you are in paradise where Medieval and Renaissance art are eternal and constant protagonists.
You can find a tiny village perched on a charming hilly promontory and you will find there something left by a great master and also that is one of the stupendous and fascinating secrets of Tuscany many other lands have not and also for that it is a destination which always leave imprint something to conserve in the most pleasant memories fo ever.
The municipality and all its immediate surroundings including the splendid and historic towns of Castagneto Carducci, Campiglia Marittima, Venturina, Rimigliano and other minor centres scattered until the splendid promontory of Piombino offer a lot of things to do, historical, cultural, and eno gastronomic tourism and just a few kilometres of distance for the joy of all the sea and sun lovers wonderful seaside resorts such as Castiglioncello, Cecina, San Vincenzo and over 90,0 kilometres of an unforgettable coastal stretch with a mild climate all year and many chances to practise several water sports.
That wonderful Tuscan coastline apart its incomparable beauty is extremely famous because it was populated since ancient times by the the Etruscans who established in that geographic area one of their main strongholds Populonia , an emblematic centre cultural developed in Western Tuscany next to the striking Golfo di Baratti, a stupendous Thyrrenian gulf which are further attractions you can plan in your visits during a stay in Sassetta.
That area is in addition a marvellous destination for all those who love cycling on road, mountain bike with fantastic mixed routes and simply great in addition for all those who are fans of a cycle tourism. (in the case you are interested I wrote a post about a cycling route from Castagneto Carducci to Populonia about that).
That area of Livorno province is characterised by very welcoming and friendly people and it offers many chances to spend a very pleasant stay in small Hotels,charming, stylish, captivating and rustic accommodations as beautiful B&B .All that is another incentive knowing the Incoming and Hospitality structures providing comfortable places in a fairytale environment.
Also for that and much more makes that region so special offering next to its unique beauty, that notable opportunity with establishments always ready to satisfy every client who wants comfort, peace,serenity, a delicious local cuisine and a smile every day enjoying the beauty of one of the best places in the world called Tuscany.
The name Sassetta derives from the Latin Saxus which means sasso, stone probably due to the relevant presence of many of them in the local area and that word "Sassetta" is simply a diminutive of that word meaning little stone. According to historic information that denomination was recorded in 1115 when a Pisan governor of Majorca also lord of that place decided to call it in that way.
The current town was a notable historic former Etruscan colony that clever and talented civilisation which came in contact with the Greeks developing with them some trades and also intercultural interchanges. Later they also met the Romans in several occasions transmitting many concepts about art, crafts and architecture before to be totally assimilated during th Imperial Campaigns of Rome focused to occupy the entire Tuscany and naturally the old Etruria too.
The presence of the first official and established village was documented in medieval times concretely in the late 12th century when that territory was under rule of the legendary and historic Marine Republic of Pisa with the family Orlandi as local lords and in those times
Sassetta also became a residence of a high Officers of that powerful city on the shore of the river Arno and well known for its ancient fierce rivalry with Florence,Genoa, Amalfi and Livorno.
After the fall of Pisa due the defeat against Florence in 1503 those noble rulers were exiled and as Florentine domain some buildings of Sassetta among them the palace which was a property of Orlandi family was donated to a descendant of a noble Spanish family of the province of Avila named Antonio Ramirez Montalvo, son of a Royal officer.
The story of that present is pretty curious and peculiar because it seems The Medici Family the Dukes of Florence gave the building to an aristocrat of high ranking but that man was simply a waiter in Spain of Leonor Alvarez Osorio de daughter of the Marquis of Villafranca and Viceroy of Naples Pedro Alvarez and wife of Cosimo de Medici the famous Grand Duke of Tuscany who married that woman.
That donation was because Antonio Ramirez Montalvo became the loyal butler of that iconic Florentine Lord and since then its name became Palazzo Ramirez de Montalvo. That man came to Florence to accompany that woman in occasion of her wedding who became after that event Duchess of Tuscany due to the excellent diplomatic relationships developed during the several stays in the city capital of the Renaissance of the Iberian high aristocracy.
The Florentine leader gave the man the chance to stay in that picturesque village and he continued to be a faithful servant of the family. The Duke in addition left him other structures that the famous architect Bartolomeo Ammannati refurbished due the damages of the war against Pisa.
Ramirez Montalvo for his loyalty and dinstictive services during his stay obtained by the family the charge to rule of the village and he has two sons Ermando and Giovanni who continued to live in that palace.
The current town was a notable historic former Etruscan colony that clever and talented civilisation which came in contact with the Greeks developing with them some trades and also intercultural interchanges. Later they also met the Romans in several occasions transmitting many concepts about art, crafts and architecture before to be totally assimilated during th Imperial Campaigns of Rome focused to occupy the entire Tuscany and naturally the old Etruria too.
The presence of the first official and established village was documented in medieval times concretely in the late 12th century when that territory was under rule of the legendary and historic Marine Republic of Pisa with the family Orlandi as local lords and in those times
Sassetta also became a residence of a high Officers of that powerful city on the shore of the river Arno and well known for its ancient fierce rivalry with Florence,Genoa, Amalfi and Livorno.
After the fall of Pisa due the defeat against Florence in 1503 those noble rulers were exiled and as Florentine domain some buildings of Sassetta among them the palace which was a property of Orlandi family was donated to a descendant of a noble Spanish family of the province of Avila named Antonio Ramirez Montalvo, son of a Royal officer.
The story of that present is pretty curious and peculiar because it seems The Medici Family the Dukes of Florence gave the building to an aristocrat of high ranking but that man was simply a waiter in Spain of Leonor Alvarez Osorio de daughter of the Marquis of Villafranca and Viceroy of Naples Pedro Alvarez and wife of Cosimo de Medici the famous Grand Duke of Tuscany who married that woman.
That donation was because Antonio Ramirez Montalvo became the loyal butler of that iconic Florentine Lord and since then its name became Palazzo Ramirez de Montalvo. That man came to Florence to accompany that woman in occasion of her wedding who became after that event Duchess of Tuscany due to the excellent diplomatic relationships developed during the several stays in the city capital of the Renaissance of the Iberian high aristocracy.
The Florentine leader gave the man the chance to stay in that picturesque village and he continued to be a faithful servant of the family. The Duke in addition left him other structures that the famous architect Bartolomeo Ammannati refurbished due the damages of the war against Pisa.
Ramirez Montalvo for his loyalty and dinstictive services during his stay obtained by the family the charge to rule of the village and he has two sons Ermando and Giovanni who continued to live in that palace.
Sassetta in the course of its history before the reunification of Italy in the 19th century always lived under rule of the influential Grand Duchy of Tuscany with relevant privileges despite all the territories ruled by that family were organised in a typical feudalistic system but less rigid than other parts of Italy and Europe.
The genuine and unspoiled beauty of Sassetta apart its picturesque position is its charming and captivating Borgo Medievale, the medieval quarter representing the
historical heart formed by many buildings erected in the Middle Ages and other
constructions elevated later in Renaissance style that distinctive architectonic movement which had in Florence the main hub
changing the history of art becoming inspiration for the following artistic
movements.
The core of that stunning borough is a true little shining diamond entirely developed over a
picturesque hilly headland which could be a poster, a spot or protagonist for many tourist covers.The most relevant entrance to discover ro beauty of Sassetta is by Via di Castagneto a picturesque road linking Sassetta to the beautiful town Castagneto Carducci which is just 7,0 kilometres away dominating the Val Di Cornia valley and that is an immediate wonderful introduction for the marvellous views you can admire before to enter in that stunning architectural historic Eden.
The centre is mainly arranged around its Municipio the Town Hall and its iconic borough Borgo Antico the old part of the district in which is is situated the iconic Palazzo Ramirez Montalvo, the most emblematic construction erected in the municipality and linked to that noble Spanish descendant previously mentioned and in proximity of the palace lies the Chiesa di Sant´Andrea,a splendid Church dedicated to St.Andrew.
Strolling the streets of that magnificent unspoiled medieval centre you will have at the first sight the impression to be in a little Siena, Montepulciano, San Gimignano or Pienza and you will immediately breathe that sort of magic aura despite its size on a very human scale.
That enchanting atmosphere of the traditional and fascinating Tuscany is more alive than ever in Sassetta, totally visible walking across a captivating series of narrow streets, picturesque alleys, splendid walled sections and outstanding buildings. All that is highlighted in that tiny centre in which furthermore you will notice and appreciate the magnificent works by masters and architects who worked with success in that great and magnificent Region of Italy.
During the visit you can admire some works which are the best of the second half of the medieval era and particularly some others developed in the Renaissance period .It is undoubtedly a superb historic and architectural mix linking two periods of pure and sublime Italian art established in a very small space but it is for that Sassetta is extremely charming.
You will face a sublime historic environment in which every visitor can enjoy that magic contrast and taking several pictures metre by metre in that small diamond of western Tuscany simply beautiful and captivating.
The centre is mainly arranged around its Municipio the Town Hall and its iconic borough Borgo Antico the old part of the district in which is is situated the iconic Palazzo Ramirez Montalvo, the most emblematic construction erected in the municipality and linked to that noble Spanish descendant previously mentioned and in proximity of the palace lies the Chiesa di Sant´Andrea,a splendid Church dedicated to St.Andrew.
Strolling the streets of that magnificent unspoiled medieval centre you will have at the first sight the impression to be in a little Siena, Montepulciano, San Gimignano or Pienza and you will immediately breathe that sort of magic aura despite its size on a very human scale.
That enchanting atmosphere of the traditional and fascinating Tuscany is more alive than ever in Sassetta, totally visible walking across a captivating series of narrow streets, picturesque alleys, splendid walled sections and outstanding buildings. All that is highlighted in that tiny centre in which furthermore you will notice and appreciate the magnificent works by masters and architects who worked with success in that great and magnificent Region of Italy.
During the visit you can admire some works which are the best of the second half of the medieval era and particularly some others developed in the Renaissance period .It is undoubtedly a superb historic and architectural mix linking two periods of pure and sublime Italian art established in a very small space but it is for that Sassetta is extremely charming.
You will face a sublime historic environment in which every visitor can enjoy that magic contrast and taking several pictures metre by metre in that small diamond of western Tuscany simply beautiful and captivating.
Palazzo Ramirez Montalvo is the imposing palace erected in the 16th century replacing for the changes made by the architect Ammannati the former construction called Castello Orlandi which according to historic documentations was a Pisan fortified building as tells that name similat to a castle and totally destroyed by the troops of Florence.
The current building you can admire nowadays was elevated over the foundations of the former medieval Pisan fortress practically covering its entire perimeter and also for that there are not traces of that previous construction.
The structure shows a ample light facade and a huge stoned arched framed doorway and on both sides were placed series of rectangular windows arranged on three levels just like in several Florentine buildings during the great development of the first Renaissance projects of superb architecture linked to the most refined works of the golden ages of Florence you can admire nowadays around Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.
At the entrance of the palace in correspondence of the main doorway you will notice the presence of a Coat of Arms of the former rulers and curved windows in traditional Florentine style and the palace despite was restored in some occasions is today very well preserved.
What you will notice is the perfect symmetry of all the most distinctive architectural canons of the Renaissance school highlighted by the majestic image of its high and strong walls completed by a large entrance very similar to several buildings you can admire today in Florence in the access of the courtyards of palaces in the districts of Santa Croce of Santa Maria Novella.
Historically that construction related to the residence of that Iberian owner who became governor of the town became the focal point, symbol of that town for the several visits of Cosimo de' Medici hosted there who gave several privileges generated by different reasons such as productive activities linked to trade or agriculture,special merits and honours because inhabited and governed by someone closely linked to that powerful family.
All that sort of autonomy present in Sassetta in that time permitted to the local traders farmers to have a better life very difficult to obtain in other Italic Duchies,Counties or Kingdoms of that time.
The current building you can admire nowadays was elevated over the foundations of the former medieval Pisan fortress practically covering its entire perimeter and also for that there are not traces of that previous construction.
The structure shows a ample light facade and a huge stoned arched framed doorway and on both sides were placed series of rectangular windows arranged on three levels just like in several Florentine buildings during the great development of the first Renaissance projects of superb architecture linked to the most refined works of the golden ages of Florence you can admire nowadays around Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.
At the entrance of the palace in correspondence of the main doorway you will notice the presence of a Coat of Arms of the former rulers and curved windows in traditional Florentine style and the palace despite was restored in some occasions is today very well preserved.
What you will notice is the perfect symmetry of all the most distinctive architectural canons of the Renaissance school highlighted by the majestic image of its high and strong walls completed by a large entrance very similar to several buildings you can admire today in Florence in the access of the courtyards of palaces in the districts of Santa Croce of Santa Maria Novella.
Historically that construction related to the residence of that Iberian owner who became governor of the town became the focal point, symbol of that town for the several visits of Cosimo de' Medici hosted there who gave several privileges generated by different reasons such as productive activities linked to trade or agriculture,special merits and honours because inhabited and governed by someone closely linked to that powerful family.
All that sort of autonomy present in Sassetta in that time permitted to the local traders farmers to have a better life very difficult to obtain in other Italic Duchies,Counties or Kingdoms of that time.
Behind the palace you can admire the Chiesa di Sant´Andrea.That Church dedicated to St.Andrew lies in a small pleasant square next to some charming stoned low buildings.The construction of that Religious site is the result of a work ended in the 17th century and developed as Palazzo Ramirez Montalvo over the rests of a previous medieval construction elevated during Pisan rule.
Developed on a rectangular plan over a stoned step, it presents an ample gable facade with splendid marked lines highlighted by a fine oculus in the middle of the front side and a rectangular large doorway surmounted by a curved lunette.
On the left side at the corner of a narrow street was elevated a magnificent bell tower which is beautiful example of Tuscan architecture. Erected on a square plan despite the different material used for its construction than to the nearest Church, the silhouette of that building is in perfect harmony with the main body of the Sacred construction and including with all those established in local urban environmentl around it.
Notable is the execution of a stupendous belfry beneath a square roof and the presence of thin slots perfectly inserted with symmetry in the walls
In the interior of the Church you can admire some relevant paintings from different periods
dated 15th, 16th and 17th century. Many artists who worked there were mainly of Florentine school,generally masters who continued for long time to embellish several centres in the Grand Duchy.
The artistic mission was to represent the Renaissance canons born in the city of the iconic Brunelleschi and Botticelli and all that was the desire and philosophy of the Medici leaders who wanted a very deep architectural change saving what of beautiful the medieval period made in small towns but also to magnify the splendour of their noble House with the movement born during their rule in the capital of Tuscany.
Linked to that you can admire a work by a Florentine artist called Giovanni Battista Soldini who depicted the Stigmata of St. Francis very similar to that one made by the famed Ludovico Cigoli nowadays visible in the Galleria degli Uffizi museum of Florence.
Another masterpiece of clear Florence's school is a painting of the 17th century with protagonists the Virgin Mary with Jesus Child next to the Saints Anthony the Abbot and Jerome despite the author is unknown.
Another relevant detail is that the Church conserves the relics of a Saint probably a martyr killed during the Roman persecution of the Christians called Santa Lorica.In addition you can admire a splendid work dated the 15th century consisting in a baptismal font which still has the Coat of Arms of Orlandi family the former Pisan governors of Sassetta. .
An object of notable relevance preserved in that Sacred Temple is a splendid crystal rock cross which was a donation to the Church by the family Ramirez Montalvo and the beautiful altar is a further highlight beneath a beautiful niche under a wonderful ample arcade.
Extremely refined are the outlines on the walls with false columns and other attractions are the refined crystal chandeliers and paintings made in different period visible on both lateral walls.
Apart all those numerous masterpieces showing the talent of the masters you can also visit a small museum very interesting displaying different items and objects related to sacred art of relevant value.
The entrance and exit of the Borgo Antico consists in a strong stoned walled hallway with a splendid arcade and from that point starts a series of narrow streets and alleys ,tiny squares and some scenic tunnels.
In that area you will notice that many of the buildings reflect in their architectural image a pure Renaissance style but in a very charming alternation with some others linked to the late Middle Ages and simply the view of those differences in every corner, their presence add a very appealing and magic atmosphere.
Developed on a rectangular plan over a stoned step, it presents an ample gable facade with splendid marked lines highlighted by a fine oculus in the middle of the front side and a rectangular large doorway surmounted by a curved lunette.
On the left side at the corner of a narrow street was elevated a magnificent bell tower which is beautiful example of Tuscan architecture. Erected on a square plan despite the different material used for its construction than to the nearest Church, the silhouette of that building is in perfect harmony with the main body of the Sacred construction and including with all those established in local urban environmentl around it.
Notable is the execution of a stupendous belfry beneath a square roof and the presence of thin slots perfectly inserted with symmetry in the walls
In the interior of the Church you can admire some relevant paintings from different periods
dated 15th, 16th and 17th century. Many artists who worked there were mainly of Florentine school,generally masters who continued for long time to embellish several centres in the Grand Duchy.
The artistic mission was to represent the Renaissance canons born in the city of the iconic Brunelleschi and Botticelli and all that was the desire and philosophy of the Medici leaders who wanted a very deep architectural change saving what of beautiful the medieval period made in small towns but also to magnify the splendour of their noble House with the movement born during their rule in the capital of Tuscany.
Linked to that you can admire a work by a Florentine artist called Giovanni Battista Soldini who depicted the Stigmata of St. Francis very similar to that one made by the famed Ludovico Cigoli nowadays visible in the Galleria degli Uffizi museum of Florence.
Another masterpiece of clear Florence's school is a painting of the 17th century with protagonists the Virgin Mary with Jesus Child next to the Saints Anthony the Abbot and Jerome despite the author is unknown.
Another relevant detail is that the Church conserves the relics of a Saint probably a martyr killed during the Roman persecution of the Christians called Santa Lorica.In addition you can admire a splendid work dated the 15th century consisting in a baptismal font which still has the Coat of Arms of Orlandi family the former Pisan governors of Sassetta. .
An object of notable relevance preserved in that Sacred Temple is a splendid crystal rock cross which was a donation to the Church by the family Ramirez Montalvo and the beautiful altar is a further highlight beneath a beautiful niche under a wonderful ample arcade.
Extremely refined are the outlines on the walls with false columns and other attractions are the refined crystal chandeliers and paintings made in different period visible on both lateral walls.
Apart all those numerous masterpieces showing the talent of the masters you can also visit a small museum very interesting displaying different items and objects related to sacred art of relevant value.
The entrance and exit of the Borgo Antico consists in a strong stoned walled hallway with a splendid arcade and from that point starts a series of narrow streets and alleys ,tiny squares and some scenic tunnels.
In that area you will notice that many of the buildings reflect in their architectural image a pure Renaissance style but in a very charming alternation with some others linked to the late Middle Ages and simply the view of those differences in every corner, their presence add a very appealing and magic atmosphere.
The Borgo Antico of Sassetta is a fantastic mix where new artists who continued in the post medieval era to build new constructions saved the rest the previous masters left in the town with extreme respect including restoring some of them without mutations and a detail pretty relevant the absence of Baroque structures or other kinds of styles which entered in vogue in the following periods.
Originally the entrance of that Tuscan centre was fortified and protected by strong walls with a passage leading to the main gate flanked by other lower walls forming the perimeter of the defencive walls around that unspoiled medieval hilltop diamond and all that is visible today in some corners of the municipality from different perspectives.
Very interesting is also a different kind of tourism enjoying also the beauty of marvellous natural corners of Sassetta and a visit to the Parco Forestale di Poggio Neri a wonderful protected nature park in the outskirts of the town is a must.
Originally the entrance of that Tuscan centre was fortified and protected by strong walls with a passage leading to the main gate flanked by other lower walls forming the perimeter of the defencive walls around that unspoiled medieval hilltop diamond and all that is visible today in some corners of the municipality from different perspectives.
Very interesting is also a different kind of tourism enjoying also the beauty of marvellous natural corners of Sassetta and a visit to the Parco Forestale di Poggio Neri a wonderful protected nature park in the outskirts of the town is a must.
All that natural space is highlighted by the beautiful oak and chestnut tree forests at the foot of the Monte Bufalaio, a charming peak with many picturesque paths all around it, ideal trails to discover that enchanting place with the chance to spend some hours enjoyings silence, peace and tranquillity in an uncontaminated nature.
That area is a small paradise and offers many chances to enjoy several activities such as long walks but also magnificent opportunities for all mountain bikers, trekkers and photographers.
It is a stunning place with a large varietyl fauna with the presence of different kinds of animals such as wild boar, roe deer, hare, wild rabbit,fox squirrel, marten. weasel and European hedgehog among others.Many are the different species of birds such as skylark, linnet, owl, magpie, blackbird, goldfinch, hoopoe, buzzard, thrush, starling and green woodpecker and further migratory types.
A great experienc to discover that wonderful area in another way enjoying unforgettable horse riding excursions,a great outdoor activity very popular in all the province of Livorno in particular in the Maremma, Costa degli Etruschi but also in that parkland.
The park also hosts a Museum called Museo del Bosco, the Museum of the Forest hosted
in a kind of a hut which is a perfect replica of a house in which the former workers and their families lived and it is a visit pretty suggested.
.That exhibition is as to return to the past learning more about the local rural life discovering as the former inhabitants lived in an explanation step by step of their history and the importance of that huge woodland apart all its main beautiful corners and attractions illustrated with specific mentions to flora and fauna.
A relevant aspect focused by the Museum is that the surroundings of the Monte Bufalaio as all the local area were in the past mainly inhabited by workers dedicated the coal and also that is narrated in that very interesting exhibition.In its interior toy will see a small living room having a stoned oven and in another space you will notice the presence of the former utensils, all their accessories and also a hen house.
The territory around that mount for a long period centuries ago was also used for other works as collectors of chestnuts, products which were sold to different markets but continuing today despite much less than before.Currently it is a Mecca for many trekkers who can enjoy several excursions in that magnifcicent environment with splendid routes enjoying the beautiful and genuine image of the uncontaminated Tuscan nature.
If you want to reach the Monte Bufalaio there is a path leading to its summit and once reached the top the panoramic views are simply stunning.In addition you can explore the valley of the river Cornia, reaching another height called Monte Calvo and also the picturesque hills in the outskirts of Castagneto Carducci, the town in which lived the famous poet and writer Giosué Carducci and that is another brilliant experience visiting a place highly suggested for its great beauty and charm.
Along a path indicated with the number 102 you can reach a a former quarry where was extracted the famous red marble of Sassetta.There are in addition spaces for pic-nic and trails for disabled people and its southern side is very loved because it is rich of edible mushrooms. In that area a further attraction you can also admire an old cave with a magnificent gorge of about 32,0 metres and some rests of old mills once used by locals.
The proximity of the Coast is another great incentive for the tourists who decide to spend holidays in Sassetta with the opportunity to reach in a very short time the beautiful coastline of that paradise called Costa degli Etruschi enjoying the beaches of San Vincenzo and Castglioncello famous for their great sandy stretches and also extremely captivating for the magnificent colours of marvellous sunsets.
Along the promontory of Piombino there are many other chances to have stunning and beautiful views towards the wonderful Isola d´Elba and the Tuscan Archipelago or also reaching the picturesque and romantic Gulf of Baratti which is another more than recommended place very difficult to forget.
Cities of art as Pisa, Livorno but also the beautiful Volterra and San Gimignano are pretty close with the great chance to admire other notable jewels of Tuscany while Florence and Siena the Queen and the Princess of that unique Region are not far.
About the local superb gastronomy you will find a wide choice of delectable and delicious plates ready to satisfy all the tastes and the most exigent palates , If you are visiting the nearest coast you can stop in several places to enjoy the typical local specialities consisting in supreme fresh and fish seafood.
Once there something you can not miss is the famous Triglie alla Livornese, exquisite mullet cooked with tomato, parsley, olive oil, pepper and garlic. The notorious Caciucco is another gastronomic highlight consisting in a great fish stew similar to the famed French Bouillabaisse or the Catalan Zarzuela, a plate including different kinds of fish and seafood seasoned with a divine sauce of tomato,parsley, garlic and combined with minced toasted bread.
Notable is also the delectable Baccalá alla Livornese with a very old tradition, stock fish cooked with potatoes,onion, garlic, pepper and tomato and also very appreciated is the Frittura Mista di Pesce a rich plate which includes apart fresh fried fish also delicious squid, scampi and prawns .Furthermore very suggested are the grilled or marinated Acciughe excellent local anchovies with a great taste..
The famed Bruschetta is often present as starter or as appetiser and always loyally to the old traditions with garlic rubbed on toasted bread adding a supreme extra virgin olive oil, fresh tomatoes and salt. There are also many variants adding olives, slices of sausage or also meat and salami. About the latter used in starters and snacks you can taste the tastefully and sublime Salame Toscano boasting a very special taste.
Other more than popular specialities are the traditional Pappardelle , big tagliatelle cooked with wild boar or hare ragu and the typical Pasta e Ceci, pasta with chickpeas linked to the oldest Tuscan cuisine just like the iconic Pasta e Fagioli , consisting in pasta prepared with olive oil, garlic,onion and adding to that sauce fresh beans.
The Pappa al Pomoro is another gastronomic highlight consisting in a soup which is a combination of tomato as main ingredient adding bread, garlic, basil, salt, pepper and a good quantity of extra virgin olive oil.
About meat you are in paradise with excellent quality of beef, veal, pork and wild boar prepared in different styles such as roasted, grilled and baked.The Rosticciana is a superb combination of grilled beef and pork meats adding also sausages all that is seasoned with rosemary, pepper, salt, aromatic herbs served with roast potatoes and it has a vague resemblance to the popular Argentinian Asado.
Very suggested is also the Spezzatino alla Cacciatora consisting in a kind of beef stew prepared with tomato sauce, olive oil, black pepper, chilli pepper with an addition of laurel and herbs. Notable are also the stews or the roasts with game meats such as wild boar, pheasant, and hare. Plates of high quality are the Cinghiale Arrosto or Allo Spiedo, respectively roast and spit wild boar.
The several forests are rich of chestnuts used to make sauces and also cakes .The famous Castagnaccio is made with that product and another product of bakery well known is the Torta di Ceci, a famed cake which has as main ingredient chickpeas.
The fine wines of the province of Livorno do not need promotion or publicity. High quality, tastefully, smooth and versatililty are their great features andyou can combine a great wine of that area in every meal. Some of the most prestigious names are Elba, Bolgheri Val di Cornia, Vermentino, Passito, Rosato and Bolgheri Sassicaia are all excellent selected wines totally guaranteed to satisfy the most demanding palates.
The secrets of the high level of those Tuscan wines are many .Firstly is the result of an old and secular tradition combined with a mild climate with the meeting of the mild breeze of the Mediterranean and the soft winds of thee Apennines and that is a notable feature with a very suitable micro climate successful for the implantantion of vines.
The local fertile local soil is particularly appropriate for robust grapes implanted on hills cultivated in vineyards at a perfect attitude and a further advantage is that of manny sunny days, excellent temperatures and very ventilated cool evenings.
All the territory is an Eden for all those who love fine wines and much more you will have the chance to have a very ample choice.What you will immediately notice is that those wines are very versatile, a local red can accompanies all the red meats while a fine white is great for every kind of fish ,seafood but also having a fresh glass during an appetiser or starter or used in haute cuisine.
The nearest airport is the International Airport of Pisa Galileo Galilei situated at just 87,0 kilometres north of Sassetta. Definitely a great option because you will need less than one hour driving via Cecina to reach that marvellous unspoiled medieval hilltop diamond in the county of Livorno in Western Tuscany and that airport is a great destination about low costs from different cities and towns in Europe.
The Pappa al Pomoro is another gastronomic highlight consisting in a soup which is a combination of tomato as main ingredient adding bread, garlic, basil, salt, pepper and a good quantity of extra virgin olive oil.
About meat you are in paradise with excellent quality of beef, veal, pork and wild boar prepared in different styles such as roasted, grilled and baked.The Rosticciana is a superb combination of grilled beef and pork meats adding also sausages all that is seasoned with rosemary, pepper, salt, aromatic herbs served with roast potatoes and it has a vague resemblance to the popular Argentinian Asado.
Very suggested is also the Spezzatino alla Cacciatora consisting in a kind of beef stew prepared with tomato sauce, olive oil, black pepper, chilli pepper with an addition of laurel and herbs. Notable are also the stews or the roasts with game meats such as wild boar, pheasant, and hare. Plates of high quality are the Cinghiale Arrosto or Allo Spiedo, respectively roast and spit wild boar.
The several forests are rich of chestnuts used to make sauces and also cakes .The famous Castagnaccio is made with that product and another product of bakery well known is the Torta di Ceci, a famed cake which has as main ingredient chickpeas.
The fine wines of the province of Livorno do not need promotion or publicity. High quality, tastefully, smooth and versatililty are their great features andyou can combine a great wine of that area in every meal. Some of the most prestigious names are Elba, Bolgheri Val di Cornia, Vermentino, Passito, Rosato and Bolgheri Sassicaia are all excellent selected wines totally guaranteed to satisfy the most demanding palates.
The secrets of the high level of those Tuscan wines are many .Firstly is the result of an old and secular tradition combined with a mild climate with the meeting of the mild breeze of the Mediterranean and the soft winds of thee Apennines and that is a notable feature with a very suitable micro climate successful for the implantantion of vines.
The local fertile local soil is particularly appropriate for robust grapes implanted on hills cultivated in vineyards at a perfect attitude and a further advantage is that of manny sunny days, excellent temperatures and very ventilated cool evenings.
All the territory is an Eden for all those who love fine wines and much more you will have the chance to have a very ample choice.What you will immediately notice is that those wines are very versatile, a local red can accompanies all the red meats while a fine white is great for every kind of fish ,seafood but also having a fresh glass during an appetiser or starter or used in haute cuisine.
The nearest airport is the International Airport of Pisa Galileo Galilei situated at just 87,0 kilometres north of Sassetta. Definitely a great option because you will need less than one hour driving via Cecina to reach that marvellous unspoiled medieval hilltop diamond in the county of Livorno in Western Tuscany and that airport is a great destination about low costs from different cities and towns in Europe.
Visiting that centre of Western Tuscany is definitely a great experience discovering the charm of the rural traditional and beautiful soul of that corner of Italy with its superb and magnificent art,history, magnificent landscapes all that in addition to the presence of very nice people with a high sense of hospitality.
That enchanting atmosphere you can find in several captivating sites of Tuscany with the desire to discover all and repeating as soon as possible a further experience there once left that magic land is because there are not many places in the world like that, something unique in its kind with many other feature which make that Italian region a destination absolutely inimitable.
The visit or a stay in that pleasant town called Sassetta will be a sort of great appetiser with the desire to come back soon to that stupendous place which has an endless list of attractions, a marvellous unspoiled medieval hilltop diamond to admire and love at first sight.
That enchanting atmosphere you can find in several captivating sites of Tuscany with the desire to discover all and repeating as soon as possible a further experience there once left that magic land is because there are not many places in the world like that, something unique in its kind with many other feature which make that Italian region a destination absolutely inimitable.
The visit or a stay in that pleasant town called Sassetta will be a sort of great appetiser with the desire to come back soon to that stupendous place which has an endless list of attractions, a marvellous unspoiled medieval hilltop diamond to admire and love at first sight.
Francesco Mari
Recommended Accommodations in Sassetta
Agriturismo Sant´Anna
Hotel Campo di Carlo
Podere la Cerreta
Tenuta la Bandita
Casa Mattioli
Recommended Restaurants in Sassetta
Ristorante il Castagno
Ristorante e Pizzeria Da Maria Pia
Ristorante Osteria C´Era una Volta
Useful links
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Thanks a lot to read and note.