Val di Cornia blends hills and coastline where archaeology meets landscapes shaped by iron and copper mining history. The Val di Cornia Parks system (UNESCO Global Geopark) brings together archaeological sites, museums and natural areas linked by walking and cycling routes.
The Baratti and Populonia Archaeological Park stretches between the Gulf of Baratti and the Piombino headland and preserves the only Etruscan city built on the sea. Visit the acropolis of upper Populonia, the necropolises (including San Cerbone with monumental tombs) and the evidence of metalworking linked to Elban ore. Inside the park you can follow themed trails such as the Iron Route or the Quarries Route, with different durations and difficulty.
Nearby villages are worth a stop: Suvereto (Orange Flag and Borghi più belli d'Italia), Campiglia Marittima with its old town, and inland Massa Marittima. Don't miss Rocca San Silvestro, a medieval mining village in the woods within the San Silvestro Archaeo-mining Park.
We recommend checking online for opening times, tickets and bookings for archaeological sites; in peak season, plan ahead for the busiest areas.
