Set on the top of two hills and overshadowed by a fortress, Campiglia Marittima is a maze of streets and alleys welcoming visitors arriving from the seaside or from the hinterland. In its Pisan-style tower houses and 19th century residences, you can read the transformations of time. Towards the sea, the view sweeps over the valley to the islands of the Tuscan archipelago, Corsica and Argentario. The urban layout retains much of the materials and colours of its medieval past, the ancient stones blend with the borgo’s vibrant murals made by local young artists in the public spaces and gardens, the sweet aroma of local schiaccia, still made to an ancient recipe, emanates from the bakeries. The Fortress occupies a semi-circular area on the highest hill and includes a dungeon, an ancient cistern and imposing crenellated walls. It houses a museum of artefacts from the fortress, including an almost complete suit of armour, a helmet and a small collection of weapons. The 19th century Teatro dei Concordi, the Church of San Lorenzo, the Museum of Sacred Art and the Churches of Sant’Antonio and San Sebastiano are also worth visiting. The Praetorian Palace dating back to the 13th century, was the home of the Capitano di Giustizia sent from Florence to administer justice, secure and defend the borgo between the 15th and 17th centuries.

Must-see

•The Romanesque Church of San Giovanni is built outside the walls, on a hill in front of the town. It hosts a marble relief with scenes symbolizing the defeat of evil by Christ from the 12th century.
•The Venturina Terme hamlet has an Art Nouveau heart, a contemporary soul and Roman roots. It is also a renowned spa, its thermal waters were known to the Etruscans and Romans. Visitors can bathe all year round in its thermal swimming pools and ponds.