Puntone
Il Puntone di Scarlino: a destination on the Tuscan Tyrrhenian coast
The Puntone di Scarlino is a fraction of the municipality of Scarlino, in the province of Grosseto. It is located along the Tyrrhenian coast, in the bay of Portiglioni, about 40 km from Grosseto and just over 7 km from the municipal capital. The location is situated within the gulf of Follonica, at the mouth of the canal connecting the Scarlino marsh, an area that once hosted manufacturing and steel settlements.
The history of the Puntone di Scarlino
The history of the Puntone di Scarlino dates back to the 4th century BC, when a manufacturing and steel settlement developed on the banks of the Scarlino marsh. In the 3rd century BC, a lively port was born between Puntone and Portiglioni, called "Portus Scabris", active in the trade of iron minerals from the island of Elba, wine, oil, and pottery. The settlement became a large-scale industrial center, and thermal plants, reception structures, and the "Manliana" building complex were built, a post station for travelers to rest and refresh.
At the end of the 1st century BC, the steel industry underwent a crisis, and agriculture became the prevalent activity. Numerous villas and farms were built around the lake and the port settlement. The vital center became Portus Scabris, which after the fall of the Roman Empire continued to offer shelter and supplies to the ships. In the high-medieval era, it became part of the territory of the castle of Pian d'Alma and was called Portiglione. In the 14th century, it was considered a small port but still capable of accommodating a large-sized ship.
Puntone di Scarlino: today
Today, the Puntone di Scarlino is a tourist destination that offers services such as restaurants, pizzerias, bars, beach establishments, and free beaches. There is a marina for tourists and a dock for fishing boats. Water sports such as sailing and windsurfing can be practiced, and there is also an equipped picnic area. The location is mainly frequented in summer but also in the spring and autumn months. The beach has a golden sandy shore and crystal clear sea, surrounded by unspoiled nature.
Conclusion
The Puntone di Scarlino is a destination on the Tuscan Tyrrhenian coast with an ancient and interesting history characterized by a manufacturing and steel settlement and a port active in the trade of various goods. Today, it has become a tourist destination mainly visited in the summer, thanks to the presence of services, an enchanting beach, and a mild climate.
