Campiglia Marittima, the medieval village dominated by the fortress

Campiglia Marittima, listed among Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages, preserves a unique historical, cultural, and landscape heritage. The name Campiglia, first recorded in 1004 in the Latin form Campillia, derives from “la campiglia” (= the fields), indicating a collection of arable lands belonging to communities or feudal estates. The medieval village, lying on gentle hills and dominated by the fortress, welcomes visitors with a maze of alleys, squares, and historic palaces. Walking through, one discovers the Pieve of San Giovanni, the Palazzo Pretorio, the Teatro dei Concordi, and churches that narrate the life of the community. From here, the view opens toward the Tuscan Archipelago and the Argentario, offering glimpses that unite nature, history, and traditions.

The treasures of Campiglia

The Palazzo Pretorio is one of the symbolic buildings of Campiglia Marittima. Built in the 13th century as the seat of the Captain of Justice, its façade still bears the coats of arms of the rectors sent from Florence between the 15th and 17th centuries. Today it houses the Historical Archive, the Children’s Library, and the Carlo Guarnieri Museum, dedicated to the internationally renowned Campigliese woodcut painter.

Equally fascinating is the Rocca di Campiglia, a monumental complex on the village’s highest hill. Restored in 2008, it preserves artifacts unearthed during excavations: weapons, helmets, armor, and everyday objects that recount centuries of history.

The Pieve of San Giovanni, built in 1173 outside the walls, reflects Pisan models of classical inspiration. It preserves sculpted portals, an architrave with symbolic wild boar hunting scenes, and the famous palindromic inscription “Sator arepo tenet opera rotas.”

Just a few kilometers away lies the Archaeological-Mining Park of San Silvestro, 450 hectares rich in Etruscan, medieval, and modern evidence. Here, museums, mining galleries, and the fortified village of Rocca San Silvestro are combined with nature trails and workshops, making the park a nationally significant center for research and education.

Events in Campiglia Marittima

In Campiglia Marittima, gastronomic traditions turn into festivals that tell the story of the land. The Sagra della Schiaccia campigliese celebrates the typical crumbly cake, made with flour, lard, eggs, sugar, and pine nuts, present on local tables since the 19th century. In August, with Calici di Stelle, the village comes alive with tastings of Val di Cornia wines among alleys and squares, enriched by music, lectures, and stargazing. At the end of April, Venturina Terme hosts the Carciofo Pride, dedicated to the violet artichoke of Venturina, an agricultural excellence offered in countless variations, from raw julienne to refined sweet creations.

photo credits StevanZZ