Maremmas

The Maremma is a large, mountainous region in Tuscany, Italy, located in the southern part of the province of Grosseto and the northern part of the province of Rome. It is characterized by its rugged terrain, including forests, marshes, and hills, with a coastline along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Historically, this area was known for its malaria-ridden swamps, which were drained and reclaimed during the 20th century.

The Maremma is divided into two main sub-regions: Maremma Grossetana, which is the larger and more well-known part, and Maremma Laziale, which extends into the Lazio region. The landscape is diverse, featuring national parks like the Parco Nazionale del Circeo and the Parco della Maremma, which protect a rich variety of flora and fauna. Wildlife includes wild boars, deer, wolves, and numerous bird species.

Economically, the Maremma has transitioned from its past as a sparsely populated, agricultural area to a popular tourist destination. It is known for its beaches, Etruscan archaeological sites, medieval towns such as Pitigliano and Sorano, and wine production, particularly the Morellino di Scansano. The region also maintains a strong tradition of pastoralism, with Maremmano cattle and sheep farming still prevalent. The Maremma Shepherd Dog, a large white livestock guardian breed, originates from this area and is named after it. Its unique geography and historical transformation make it a significant cultural and natural area in Italy.