Capalbio, the southernmost village of Tuscany

Capalbio, in the province of Grosseto, is the southernmost village of Tuscany, recognized among Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages. Its name derives from Caput Album or Calvus, probably linked either to the town’s original symbol – a human head – or to the white alabasters that characterize the area. Surrounded by a natural ecosystem of rare beauty, Capalbio preserves traces of a millennia-old history: from Etruscan origins to the Roman ruins of the colony of Cosa, up to its strategic role in the medieval and Renaissance periods. Known as the Little Athens, the village is famous for its well-preserved walls, the Castle with its double ring of fortifications, and the timeless charm of its narrow streets. Today, Capalbio blends art, culture, and landscape, keeping its unique identity intact.

The treasures of Capalbio

Capalbio is a fascinating village that over time has gained national renown thanks to the presence of politicians, intellectuals, journalists, and artists who chose it as an exclusive retreat. The historic center has preserved its medieval urban layout, enclosed by an evocative double wall system—medieval and Renaissance—still walkable and panoramic. The main entrance is Porta Senese, which bears plaques and coats of arms recalling the historical transitions from Sienese to Medici rule.

Climbing through the streets, one encounters the Rocca Aldobrandesca, an ancient stronghold of the Republic of Siena, and the nearby Palazzo Collacchioni, which houses the 1823 Conrad Graf fortepiano once played by Giacomo Puccini. A little further stands the Church of San Nicola, with 15th-century frescoes of the Umbrian and Sienese schools. Outside the walls, the Oratory of the Providence preserves a precious Madonna attributed to Perugino.

The surrounding area offers artistic and natural gems such as the Tarot Garden by Niki de Saint Phalle and the WWF Oasis of Lake Burano, the first WWF reserve in Italy. The unspoiled coastline and countryside, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, frame a village that unites history, art, and nature in an authentic and evocative atmosphere.

Events in the village

Capalbio offers a rich calendar of cultural and tourist events. At Easter, Capalbio in Fiera takes place, dedicated to the country world, with the butteri (Maremma cowboys) as protagonists in the hamlet of Borgo Carige. Summer brings major events: Capalbio Libri, a festival of reading; the Capalbio International Prize Piazza Magenta; visual art exhibitions at the Castle and the Frantoio; the Capalbio Movie film festival; and the Zigzag Music festival. Great importance is also given to gastronomic traditions, with celebrations in every hamlet and, in the main town, the historic Wild Boar Festival, organized since 1965 at the beginning of September.

photo credits leoks