Grosseto
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 29 November 2023
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The city of Grosseto is the capital city of the Province of Grosseto with a population of 82,353 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 10 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 474 km² and lies 140 kilometres south west of Florence, the regional capital of Tuscany. The southernmost of Tuscany's 10 provincial capitals, Grosseto is situated around 10 kilometres inland of the Tyrrhenian Coast, and is one of the principal towns of the Maremma. |
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The first thing you notice when you enter Grosseto is the towering complex of defensive walls that surrounds the city. Construction of the walls started in the latter part of the 16th century; commissioned by the Medici family, they are now known as the Medicean Walls. The walls remain an integral part of life in modern Grosseto; you can enjoy a pleasant stroll around them, which also helps to gain an understanding of the city's layout.
Inside the city walls the centre is neat and compact. The main square is Piazza Dante and this is where you'll find the main religious building in the city: Grosseto Cathedral. The Cathedral was started in the 13th century but has undergone extensive renovation, modification and refurbishment in the intervening years.
Once a week, on Thursdays, Grosseto comes to life with market day. The market takes place both inside and outside the city walls and is one of the most important in the local area. For the rest of the week it's business as usual; there are plenty of shops and places to eat and drink around but this is certainly one of the quietest of the major cities in Tuscany.
Inside the city walls the centre is neat and compact. The main square is Piazza Dante and this is where you'll find the main religious building in the city: Grosseto Cathedral. The Cathedral was started in the 13th century but has undergone extensive renovation, modification and refurbishment in the intervening years.
Once a week, on Thursdays, Grosseto comes to life with market day. The market takes place both inside and outside the city walls and is one of the most important in the local area. For the rest of the week it's business as usual; there are plenty of shops and places to eat and drink around but this is certainly one of the quietest of the major cities in Tuscany.
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Grosseto is located in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma, in central Italy. It serves as the capital of the province of Grosseto and is renowned for its historical significance, beautiful landscapes, and proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea.
History
Grosseto has ancient origins, with evidence of Etruscan settlements dating back to the 7th century BC. During the Middle Ages, it was a prominent city-state and played a crucial role in the political and economic affairs of the Maremma region. The city was known as "Grossetum" during the Roman era and later became part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany in the 16th century.
Throughout history, Grosseto's fortified walls protected it from various invasions and attacks. Today, the town boasts a well-preserved historic center that showcases its rich heritage.
Throughout history, Grosseto's fortified walls protected it from various invasions and attacks. Today, the town boasts a well-preserved historic center that showcases its rich heritage.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Historic Centre: Stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic centre, enclosed by medieval walls, and discover the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, dating back to the 13th century. The Piazza Dante Alighieri is a lively square, perfect for enjoying a coffee and people-watching.
- Medicean Walls: Explore the impressive Medicean walls, constructed during the Renaissance, which still encircle the town. Walk along the ramparts for panoramic views of the surroundings.
- Archaeological Museum of Grosseto: Learn about the area's Etruscan and Roman history at this museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts.
- Natural Parks: Grosseto is surrounded by natural parks, including the Maremma Regional Park and the Uccellina Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, and unspoiled landscapes.
- Beaches: The nearby coastal areas of Marina di Grosseto and Castiglione della Pescaia offer beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters, making them popular destinations for sunbathing and swimming.
- Local Cuisine: Savour the flavors of Maremman cuisine, which includes dishes like acquacotta, tortelli maremmani, and wild boar stew. Pair your meal with excellent local wines, such as Morellino di Scansano.
- Festivals: Experience the town's vibrant cultural scene by participating in local events and festivals, such as the Palio Marinaro dell'Argentario, a historic rowing race.
Comune di Grosseto
Grosseto Travel
Grossseto's train station is situated north west of the city centre, a 15 minute walk from Piazza Dante (1.2 km). You can take a train from Grosseto to Florence (2 hours 49 minutes) without having to change but there are more frequent services to Livorno (1 hour 29 minutes) and Pisa (1 hour 49 minutes) from where you can find further connections available. Trains also run north east from Grosseto to Siena (1 hour 45 minutes), stopping along the way at minor countryside towns including Buonconvento (1 hour 7 minutes). Heading south there's a train to Rome (1 hour 58 minutes); its only stops being at the port town of Civitavecchia (51 minutes) and the outskirts of Rome.
The most convenient airport for Grosseto is Pisa Airport which is an hour and 32 minute drive away (155 km), while Tuscany's other major airport, Florence Airport, is the next best option at an hour and 49 minutes away (156 km).
Places to visit close to Grosseto include the seaside town of Castiglione della Pescaia while just a little further in the same direction will take you to the port of Piombino from where you can take a ferry to the island of Elba. It's also only a short distance south to another port, Porto Santo Stefano from where you can sail to two other islands in the Tuscan Archipelago: Giglio and Giannutri. Also to the south but inland, lies a quartet of interesting places all clustered together: the hill towns of Pitigliano, Sorano and Sovana as well as the famous outdoor spa of Saturnia. A short distance north of Grosseto lies an important hill town: Massa Marittima.
The most convenient airport for Grosseto is Pisa Airport which is an hour and 32 minute drive away (155 km), while Tuscany's other major airport, Florence Airport, is the next best option at an hour and 49 minutes away (156 km).
Places to visit close to Grosseto include the seaside town of Castiglione della Pescaia while just a little further in the same direction will take you to the port of Piombino from where you can take a ferry to the island of Elba. It's also only a short distance south to another port, Porto Santo Stefano from where you can sail to two other islands in the Tuscan Archipelago: Giglio and Giannutri. Also to the south but inland, lies a quartet of interesting places all clustered together: the hill towns of Pitigliano, Sorano and Sovana as well as the famous outdoor spa of Saturnia. A short distance north of Grosseto lies an important hill town: Massa Marittima.
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Close by: Castiglione della Pescaia, Piombino, Porto Santo Stefano
Recommended accommodation: Fattoria San Lorenzo (5 km) Public transport: Train station 1.2 km from centre, local buses |
By train: Livorno -1 hour 29 minutes, Pisa - 1 hour 49 minutes
By car: Siena - 1 hour (75 km), Livorno - 1 hour 39 mins (135 km) Fly to: Pisa Airport - 1 hour 32 minutes by car (155 km) |
