From 1442 to 1741 Massa was the capital of the State of the Malaspina before being annexed to the Duchy of Modena. In 1806, the cities of Massa and Carrara were annexed to the principality of Lucca, then to the kingdom of Sardegna in 1859.
Massa has some old monuments such as the Dome, the Palazzo Cybo Malaspina or the church of San Sebastian. The generous use of white marble on the facades, the fountains and sculptures point to the proximity of Carrara. The area enjoys a prime position in close proximity of the sea-side of the Riviera and the Versilia.
Surrounding area
Carrara
Situated on the edge of the massif of the Appuan Alps, the city of Carrara is the undisputed capital of marble. Its industrial activity has continued uninterrupted since Antiquity. It was here that Michelangelo chose the blocks of marble that were to serve for the creation of his masterworks. Carrara’s white marble is known the world over for its particularly fine grain and its translucent whiteness, much sought after by sculptors. There is marble that is slightly tinted, or shot through with dark red, green, blue-grey or orange veins. The presence of these colours is due in part to the minerals found in the original stone. These days, the extraction of marble is concentrated on three regions: Colonnata, Fantiscritti and Ravaccione.
Fivizzano
Surrounded by fortified walls, this market borough boasts an impressive historical heritage within the ramparts built by the Florentine Republic, such as the Piazza Medicea, numerous Renaissance palazzi, and the church of Santi Lacopo (?) e Antonio.
Pontremoli
Pontremoli, the most northern town in Tuscany, is the seat of the prestigious literary prize “Bancarella”. With no significant agricultural land, the inhabitants have developed a true passion for books. Many of them are travelling book-sellers. The city has also conserved a rich architectural heritage over the centuries.
For any question about Agriturismo in Massa, please contact our Tuscany Agriturismo Specialist
Alessandro@dolcevita.be
Tel: +32 2 653 25 20
Ask him for a customized proposal !
