Nestled between the coast and mountains of Tuscany, this province has ancient fortresses, beach resorts, hilltop villages and spectacular marble caves.
Massa Carrara is famous throughout the world as the home of Carrara marble. This province stretches from the Apuan Alps to the shores of the Ligurian Sea. The scenic landscape of Massa Carrara is exquisite, with marble-covered mountain peaks, dense forests, sprawling vineyards and golden-sand beaches. Tour the historic monuments of its major cities, enjoy sublime culinary experiences at rural villages, hike amid pristine countryside and relax at seaside towns.
Massa, the provincial capital set in the foothills of the Apuan Alps, is a good place to start your visit. Wander the narrow streets of the historic center, built over centuries by the city’s medieval residents and the noble Cybo Malaspina family. Find attractive squares, such as Piazza Mercurio, framed by colorful mansions. Notable attractions include the Malaspina Castle, Massa Cathedral and Palazzo Cybo Malaspina.
Nearby Carrara has a backdrop of olive groves and alpine peaks where marble has been excavated since Roman times. Lunar-like landscapes rise up from behind architectural masterpieces such as the marble Carrara Cathedral. Among other notable sights is the Palazzo delle Loggia and Piazza Antonio Gramsci. Learn about marble excavation at the Civic Marble Museum and admire fascinating marble sculptures at the Cava Museo a Fantiscritti.
During the summer months the beaches of the Ligurian Sea are ideal for sunbathing and water sports. Hang out at the lidos (beach clubs) spread along the coast at Marina di Carrara and Marina di Massa.
Head inland to Campocecina and visit the Cava dei Poeti to see a cave decorated with the inscriptions of known poets. Hop between the villages of the Lunigiana region, many of which sit on the ancient Via Francigena pilgrim route. Aulla, Fivizzano, Filattiera, Fosdinovo and Pontremoli are all worth a day trip. These villages offer great opportunities to sample testaroli (thin dough with pecorino cheese and pesto) and the tender Zeri lamb.
Reach Massa Carrara by flying to Genoa or Florence and then rent a car to discover the province’s delights. Both Massa and Carrara are on the train route that serves Italy’s northwestern coastline.