Stiava between History, Culture and Landscape

History, Church and the Name of the Town

The parish church of Santa Maria Assunta in Stiava has a bell tower dating from the 19th century. Its feast is celebrated on 15 August. The name of the town also refers to an older tradition: Stiava is considered to derive from “tuguria Sclava.” This designation refers to a small settlement of huts in which Slavic slaves brought to Italy by the successors of Charlemagne lived.

Culture at Villa Gori

Villa Gori in Stiava houses a municipal library and a cultural centre; access is open to everyone. Villa Gori also hosts exhibitions of painting, sculpture and photography. If you would like to combine these art forms with a visit to a municipal library and cultural centre, Villa Gori is one of the town’s specific cultural destinations.

Architecture and Public Space

The La Gora washhouse on Piazza Pertini in Stiava is easily accessible from the town centre. It features a large basin and a valuable loggia with round arches. The outdoor area of Villa Gori has also been upgraded. In addition, a 1,400 m² park was created for events. Stiava therefore brings together historic architectural elements and an open space planned for events.

Other Museums and Buildings

The Museo archeologico di Camaiore is a museum located in the immediate vicinity of Stiava. The surrounding area of Stiava is also home to the Museo del Carnevale di Viareggio and the Museo civici Villa Paolina Bonaparte, both museums, as well as Villa Le Pianore, a palace. These different cultural destinations broaden the perspective beyond the places within the town itself.

Beaches and Mountain Landscape

The beaches Spiaggia Lido di Camaiore, Spiaggia Marina di Pietrasanta and Spiaggia Forte dei Marmi are located around Stiava. Mount Monte Matanna is also in the surrounding area. For planning your trip, this provides coastal destinations and a mountain destination as different points of reference within the landscape.

Routes and Choosing Accommodation

Stiava can be reached after a short 2-kilometre walk over the Montramito hill. The La Panoramica di Massarosa route begins in Stiava, passes through Bargecchia and continues to Panicale, while the return route leads through the forest and back onto a panoramic road. When choosing a hotel, you can weigh up whether you would prefer to focus your stay more on the cultural offerings in Stiava or on destinations and routes in the surrounding area. This allows your accommodation choice to be connected with your interests in local history, art, museums, beaches, mountain landscapes or a route.

Discover More Places

More places: Montigiano, Corsanico-Bargecchia, Miglianello, Bargecchia, Massaciuccoli, Gualdo, Mommio Castello, Pieve A Elici

To the higher-level travel overview: Massarosa.