Villages in the northern Maremma are a living testimony to the area's centuries-old past and culture. The small historic towns, with their squares enlivened by traditional markets and richly decorated churches, are able to blend art and folk culture in a fascinating symphony of images, colors and sounds. These hidden gems, therefore, are able to offer an unforgettable experience for visitors eager to learn about the history and traditions of this ancient land.
Contents
1.
The village of Travale in Montieri: the town of the Italian language
2.
The village of Caldana in Gavorrano
3.
Roccatederighi in Roccastrada
4.
Castiglion Bernardi in Monterotondo Marittimo
1.
The village of Travale in Montieri: the town of the Italian language
Travale
Travale, a hamlet in the municipality of Montieri, is a small village important to the history of Italy. In fact, it is in the "charter of Travale", a parchment preserved in the Historical Archives of the Diocese of Volterra, that one of the earliest records of the Italian language is recorded. This record is celebrated in the village thanks to a plaque in the historic center that reads "Guaita, guita male, non mangiai ma' mezzo pane".
1.
The village of Caldana in Gavorrano
Caldana
Caldana is a hamlet in the municipality of Gavorrano that still retains its ancient medieval beauty thanks in part to the ability of the inhabitants to bring the history of the village to life through popular festivals and entertainment shows. Places to visit include: the church of San Biagio, Tosi Palace, the walls and the castle.
1.
Roccatederighi in Roccastrada
Roccatederighi
The medieval village of Roccatederighi, a hamlet of the municipality of Roccastrada, is situated on a hilltop about 500 meters above sea level. The village is entered through a round-arched gateway, positioned between boulders and walls that blend in with the town's architecture. Once through the grand entrance, one enters a labyrinth of alleys, arches and stairways that crisscross the entire town and allow visitors to savor the beauty of medieval Tuscany.
1.
Castiglion Bernardi in Monterotondo Marittimo
Castiglion Bernardi
On the top of a hillock covered with dense wilderness are the ruins of Castiglion Bernardi. Around the walls, it is also possible to visit some remains of buildings from medieval times and the square base of the central tower. Located a few kilometers from Monterotondo Marittimo, the castle is famous for the ghost of Nencia, a nurse who, according to legend, died to save Gigliola, a maiden she had always considered as a daughter.
