Where is Castiglione della Pescaia located?
The ancient seaside town of Castiglione della Pescaia is located in the province of Grosseto in the Tuscany region. The town developed around a medieval castle and is well known as a center of European tourism. Additionally, there is a seaport where coal and timber were once traded. The population of Castiglione della Pescaia is over 8,000 people.
History of Castiglione della Pescaia
Castiglione della Pescaia was founded by the Etruscans, who were engaged in agriculture and mining and created unique works of art. During Roman times, the advanced Etruscan civilization was assimilated, and the town was renamed Salebrone. The town grew on a coastal hill; nearby was Lake Prelius, rich in fish, as well as salt deposits in salt mines.
During the Middle Ages, Castiglione della Pescaia suffered significantly from pirate attacks. The town's current name was first mentioned in the 9th century AD, when it was part of the Republic of Pisa as a key element of the Tyrrhenian coastal defense system. Three towers connected by a wall were built on the hilltop and still overlook the town today.
In the 13th century, Castiglione della Pescaia gained the status of an independent municipality. Under the Lorraine dynasty, the town became part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, which contributed to its development and several major projects. Later, for two centuries, it was owned by the family of Duke Cosimo I de' Medici, who traded grain, timber, and fish.
Castiglione della Pescaia became part of Italy in 1859, and in the early 20th century, a railway to Livorno and Rome was built here. After World War II, the town turned into an exclusive resort.
In the surroundings — on the hills, by the Bruna River, and near the port — archaeologists discovered various artifacts from the Paleolithic era, the Etruscan civilization, and Roman rule.
