Massarella between Pieve, Palio and Padule

Massarella combines a landscape between the Cerbaie and the Padule with sacred and local cultural heritage. The low hills overlook the important wetland; rare plant and flower species live there, and migratory waterfowl also pass through the area. Activities that continue to be carried out include gathering marsh grasses, which are shipped from Massarella throughout Italy for handicraft work. Massarella thus combines nature observation, rural work and cultural history.

Pieve and frescoes as cultural points of reference

The Pieve di Santa Maria in Massarella has been documented since 998 in a deed issued by Emperor Otto III. The present-day Pieve was built in 1639 by expanding the original Pieve, which dates from the pre-Romanesque period. The Chiesa di S. Maria a Massarella contains a fresco cycle by Romano Stefanelli: it includes the Crucifixion from 1983, the Nativity from 1996 and the Resurrection from 1998. Those interested in culture can experience medieval local history, sacred architecture and more recent religious art together here.

Processions and the Palio dei Barchini

The patron saint Madonna of the Pieve di Santa Maria in Massarella is celebrated every year on September 8 with a solemn procession through the streets of Massarella. The Quantore rites for the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament also continue to be observed and celebrated in Massarella. The Palio dei Barchini likewise combines religious and local tradition: the competition featuring typical boats from the marshlands opens on the eve with a solemn procession of the Madonna in Barca. For several years now, the women's competition has been held on a shorter course without bends.

Zuppa and Marginine

The first Sagra della Zuppa took place in 1971. The zuppa with bread served there is considered a typical Tuscan dish made from simple, healthy ingredients from the region. These include fresh vegetables, cabbage, beans, good olive oil, salt, pepper and stale bread. The traditional Marginine of Massarella are a distinct local form of small religious monuments: small tabernacles with sacred images and sculptures that are always decorated with fresh flowers.

Memorial sites and local community life

A plaque on the outer wall of the Pieve di Santa Maria commemorates six civilians and a Carabiniere from Massarella. The Parco della Rimembranza in Massarella includes an extensive garden. Seven names are inscribed on two rectangular iron plates; along a path are heart-shaped metal structures bearing the names of the deceased. The site concludes with a marble memorial plaque bearing a dedication. The town's sporting activities include the Gran Premio Andrea Caciagli cycling race, organized by Polisportiva Massarella for forty years.

Getting to Massarella

By car, Massarella can be reached via the A11 Firenze–Pisa motorway, taking the Chiesina Uzzanese exit, or via the FI-PI-LI expressway, taking the San Miniato exit. Then follow the signs to Fucecchio and subsequently to Massarella. The nearest railway stations include San Miniato Basso and Empoli; both are connected by taxi service. San Miniato is also connected by shuttle buses running between the station and Fucecchio.

More destinations

For further travel planning, you can also discover Cerreto Guidi, San Piero a Sieve, Sesto Fiorentino, Signa, Marcignana, Barberino Val D'elsa, Capraia E Limite and Incisa In Val D'arno as well.

To the main travel overview: Florence.