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The city of Grosseto
In the heart of Tuscany
THE CITY OF GROSSETO
ancient history and breathtaking landscapes
Grosseto is also surrounded by unspoilt nature, with the Maremma Natural Park nearby, offering beautiful landscapes and hiking opportunities. Grosseto’s Etruscan origins and rich historical heritage make it a fascinating place to visit for those interested in ancient history and Tuscan culture.
Surrounded by nature. Unspoilt by the Maremma Natural Park, Grosseto is a refined city in Tuscany. Of Etruscan origin, it was an important commercial and administrative centre of the Romans in the 3rd century BC. The city acquired a significant role during the period of the Republic of Siena in the 14th century, but over the centuries, it suffered various destructions and reconstructions due to wars and natural disasters.
Today, Grosseto is a modern and lively city, but still retains traces of its glorious past with its historical centre characterised by medieval streets, Renaissance architecture and the remains of ancient walls.
Not to be missed is the imposing Cathedral of San Lorenzo located in the main square of the historical centre; construction began in the 13th century, but it underwent various interventions and extensions over the following centuries. The main façade features a Romanesque portal decorated with sculptures and reliefs, including the image of San Lorenzo, the city’s patron saint, and a circular rose window that illuminates the interior of the church.
The interior of the cathedral has a single nave with a wooden truss ceiling and walls decorated with frescoes. Among the most significant works of art are a polyptych by the Master of San Martino and a marble statue of San Lorenzo, as well as a cycle of 15th-century frescoes by the Sienese painter Benvenuto di Giovanni.
One of the symbols of Grosseto is the Bastione Fortezza, built in the 16th century and characterised by an imposing structure with thick walls and battlements. It is strategically located, offering a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings; the fortification is accessible via a flight of steps leading to its main entrance.
Today, the Bastion Fortress houses the Fortress Museum, an important cultural institution dedicated to the history and memory of the city. Inside the museum, it is possible to explore the various exhibition rooms that present objects, documents and photographs related to Grosseto’s military history. One can admire ancient weapons, uniforms, maps and other historical artefacts.
A visit to the city must include Palazzo Aldobrandeschi, which dates back to the 13th century and is an example of Gothic architecture that currently hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, as well as the Teatro degli Industri, where theatrical performances, concerts and other cultural events can be enjoyed.
On your way back, you can stop at the archaeological site of Roselle, an ancient Etruscan and then Roman city. Here you can explore the ruins and admire the Roman theatre and baths.
