When you think of Marina di Grosseto and the Maremma, crystal clear sea, golden beaches and lush pine forests immediately spring to mind. But this land also boasts an archaeological heritage of rare beauty, bearing witness to one of the most fascinating civilisations in the Mediterranean: the Etruscans.
The programme we offer is designed for those who want to go beyond a beach holiday and discover unique archaeological sites that are sometimes less well known but extraordinarily fascinating. You can explore these places on your own or rely on expert guides, thanks to the professionalism of the Le Orme cooperative, which organises guided tours with archaeologists and qualified guides.
For information and bookings: www.leorme.com
Recommended archaeological itinerary: 4 days of history and nature.
Day 1: Roselle and the Archaeological Museum of Grosseto
The journey through time begins a few kilometres from Grosseto, among the ruins of the ancient Etruscan-Roman city of Roselle, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Maremma.
You can stroll among the cyclopean walls, admire the ruins of the forum, the Roman amphitheatre and the splendid Domus dei Mosaici, with its still intact flooring.
After visiting Roselle, transfer to Grosseto, where you can discover the historic centre and visit the Archaeological and Art Museum of the Maremma. This museum, one of the richest in southern Tuscany, houses artefacts that complement and enrich the experience you had in Roselle and offer an overview of the sites you will explore in the following days.
Day 2: Vulci, the Archaeological Park and the Castle of Abbadia
The second day will take you to Vulci, one of the most powerful cities in Etruria, now home to an archaeological park of great interest.
Stroll among the remains of the Domus del Criptoportico, the monumental walls, the West Gate and the Great Temple. Don’t miss the François Tomb, one of the most famous painted tombs in the Etruscan world.
The tour continues with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Vulci, housed in the picturesque Castello dell’Abbadia, overlooking the Fiora River. Here you can admire funerary objects, urns and unique finds from the Vulci necropolises.
Complete your day with a walk across the picturesque Ponte dell’Abbadia, a monumental structure that connected the coast to the inland area in Etruscan times and later in the Middle Ages.
Day 3: Sovana and Pitigliano, the Tuff Civilisation
The third day is dedicated to the evocative Tufo Area, a unique landscape where history, nature and mystery merge.
Start from Sovana, an ancient Etruscan city and perfectly preserved medieval village. Visit the Romanesque cathedral, the Aldobrandesca Fortress and the ancient noble palaces. Then immerse yourself in the silence of the rock necropolises, including the Ildebranda Tomb, the Sirena Tomb, the Pola Tomb and the spectacular Tomb of the Winged Demons, brought to light thanks to recent excavations. End the day in Pitigliano, one of the most iconic villages in the Maremma. Known as “Little Jerusalem” for its historic Jewish community, Pitigliano is a maze of narrow streets, tuff houses and breathtaking views. Don’t miss the panoramic view from the Renaissance walls.
Day 4: Vetulonia, burial mounds and museum
Your itinerary ends in Vetulonia, an ancient Etruscan city famous for its monumental tombs. Stroll among the burial mounds such as the Tomba della Pietrera or the Tomba del Diavolino, extraordinary examples of Etruscan funerary architecture.
Don’t miss a visit to the Isidoro Falchi Civic Archaeological Museum, a modern and interactive space where you can learn more about the history of Vetulonia and admire artefacts from urban excavations and surrounding necropolises.
Experience the Maremma beyond the sea.
Four intense days of excavations, museums, medieval villages and unspoilt nature. Enrich your holiday at Residence La Rosa di Nettuno with a unique experience in the footsteps of the Etruscans.
Contact us for advice, personalised maps and to organise your archaeological excursion in the Maremma!
