Valpiana
Valpiana: a charming village in Tuscany
Valpiana is a village located in the municipality of Massa Marittima, in Tuscany. Known mainly for its important iron production during the Middle Ages, the village has consolidated its appearance over time and is now a tourist attraction for visitors who want to discover the beauty and history of this area.
Physical geography
Valpiana is located in a flat area between the Ronna and Venelle streams and is surrounded by beautiful forests. The village is halfway between the cities of Massa Marittima and Follonica and is about 45 km from Grosseto. Valpiana's location, close to the river Pecora, contributes to creating a mild and pleasant climate all year round.
Climate
Valpiana has a mild and pleasant climate throughout the year, thanks to its proximity to the Pecora river. According to data collected by the Tuscany Regional Meteorological Service, in winter the average temperature is around 11 degrees Celsius, while in summer the maximum temperature reaches 30 degrees Celsius.
History
Valpiana has a long history dating back to the Etruscan period and their iron production in this area. However, the village consolidated itself as an industrial center in the Maremma region in the 14th century, when an ironworks was built to process iron brought from the Island of Elba. In the 16th century, the Grand Duke of Tuscany Cosimo I de' Medici acquired control of the region's iron activities, and one of the companies founded for this purpose, Magona, allowed the construction of the Cima, Mezzo, and Fondo ironworks and restructuring work. During the Grand Duchy of Tuscany of the Lorraine family, the ironworks village grew even more thanks to the expansion of the surrounding forests, which were cut and cleared to fuel the large furnace. In 1885, with the consolidation of Follonica as an industrial hub, the ironworks in Valpiana ceased its activities.
Monuments and places of interest
Valpiana has several monuments and places of interest that are open to tourists. One of the most interesting places to visit is the Church of Christ the King, the parish building of the village, dating back to the early 18th century, which has a simple facade with a small bell tower with volutes. In addition, the remains of the ironworks, furnaces, and the old metallurgical hub have become monuments of the village that can be visited by tourists.
Conclusions
Valpiana is a charming village in Tuscany that has a long and interesting history, thanks to its iron production and its location close to the Pecora river. Today, the village is a place of interest for tourists who want to discover the beauty and history of this area of Tuscany.
