Tuscany Maremma:
Monte Argentario

Maremma: Monte Argentario

Monte Argentario is among the most famous spots in the Maremma and all of Tuscany. Its natural beauty and the facilities provided have made it a major tourist attraction.

The Promontory’s coast has rocky cliffs covered by Mediterranean scrub alternating with olive groves and vineyards which produce excellent wine such as Ansonico and Riminese.

Monte Argentario - Photo © ITALIAN BOY

It was originally an island called Insula Matidiae because it belonged to Trajan’s niece, Matidia.

As a result of sand drift, it eventually became connected to the Tyrrenian coast by two sand bars, the Tombolo della Feniglia to the south and the Tombolo della Giannella to the north.

It was called Promontorio Cosano for the Roman colony of 273 B.C., Cosa. The name Argentario was first mentioned with the name in a poem “De reditu” by Rutilio Namaziano (5th century A.D.). The name may derive from the luster of the micaceous rock or from the position as bankers held by the Roman family of the Domizi Enobardi who owned the promontory.

After a long period of abandon, both the Pisans and the Sienese fortified it to defend the coast from Saracen raids. Later Spain incorporated both Porto Ercole and Porto Santo Stefano into its fortification plan, creating the Stato dei Presidi (Garrison State).

Historical evidence indicates that fishermen from Liguria and Elba settled Santo Stefano between the 15th and 16th centuries to practice both fishing and agriculture. An increase in population occurred at the beginning of the 17th century when the governor of the Stato dei Presidi, Nuno Orejon, made it the base for a sizeable sailing fleet.

On August 15th every year the “Palio marinaro”(sea race) is held in memory of a fishing boat saved from the Saracen attack and of Santo Stefano’s seafaring tradition. The race is preceded by a spectacular procession in Spanish costumes.

Today Porto Ercole is one of the most prestigious spots on the Tuscan coast, a cosmopolitan center frequented by tourists and vacationers alike. Fashionable shops, clubs and night spots face the small port.

Nearby is Cala Galera, a charming, natural small bay where the new port has been built. Here, every summer, innumerable yachts stop, attracted by efficiency of the structure and the extensive facilities offered by this exclusive landing.

Text courtesy of APT Maremma

© 1997-2010 Enrico Massetti
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