Positioned on the Apuan Riviera in the province of Massa-Carrara, the seaside resort of Marina di Massa is known for its beaches, pleasant atmosphere ideal for local visitors, and its proximity to areas such as Carrara, Forte dei Marmi, artistic Pietrasanta, and Viareggio, known for its carnival.
Marina di Massa is closely linked to the marble quarries found in the Apuan Alps and Massa, a thousand-year-old city with roots dating back to Roman and Lombard times, experienced a period of splendor during the Renaissance thanks to the powerful Malaspina family.
In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Marina di Massa, closer to the sea than Massa, was involved in the phenomenon of seaside tourism. Even before it had a real waterfront, the area saw the birth of both the first Art Nouveau vacation villas and the first bathing establishments. In addition, during the Fascist era, the northern part of Marina di Massa, namely the Partaccia locality, became the site of summer colonies for the children of workers in large industries in northern Italy. Prominent among these colonies were the famous Torre Fiat, built in 1933 and now renamed Torre Marina, Colonia Torino and Colonia Ettore Motta. The phenomenon of vacations but especially of colonies gave Marina considerable importance. It was precisely in the resort on the Apuan Riviera that the increase in visitors increased considerably. Today, the hamlet of Partaccia, renowned for its numerous campsites, offers tourists the opportunity to enjoy the place both during the day and in the evening. Whether one is looking for fun with friends, music or simply something tasty to eat, Partaccia is the perfect place. Crepes are especially in vogue in this area: these famous snacks, savory or sweet, with Nutella and coconut, have become a summer must in Marina di Massa. Kids returning from a night out with friends certainly don’t give them up, making them a symbol of local summer fast food.
On the other hand, the center of Marina di Massa and locations further south, such as Ronchi and Poveromo, present characteristics with nearby Versilia, through pine forests, bathing establishments, and hotels. Currently, Marina di Massa’s beaches are the main attraction of the resort. Its shoreline allows tourists and locals to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere the place offers. In the evening, the beaches come alive with young people who, before heading to the local discos, are wont to dine by the sea with a good hot pizza under a sunset sky. The ritual, born by chance, contributes beyond that to making Marina di Massa a truly special place, where the beauty of the landscape is combined with fun.
One point of interest of the shoreline is definitely its pier. The structure, which extends into the sea, affords intense views of the coastline and the Apuan Alps, and at its end, in a large circular area, is a bronze sculpture depicting a little horse, the work of sculptor Riccardo Rossi. Its location allows appreciation of both the seascape and the Apuan Alps.
The pier is additionally an excellent spot for sport fishing. During sea storms, nets called scales are lowered into the sea, and then collected under the curious eyes of tourists who approach to observe the practice up close. In the summertime, on the other hand, the facility is the place from which boats depart for trips to Liguria; the Cinque Terre, for example, are easily reached via the ferry that docks at the wharf every afternoon.
The resort of Marina di Massa has many other attractions in addition to its beaches and wharf. The waterfront is a great place for walking, cycling, and jogging. One of the most popular points of interest is Magliano Park, which has large green spaces where you can relax, eat an ice cream, read a good book, exercise, and enjoy a sunny day. A few miles away from the park, on the other hand, is the WWF forest, a great alternative to a common walk.
Betti Square, on the other hand, is the heart of Marina di Massa; a place where people gather to experience cultural events and entertainment. The square is surrounded by bars, pizzerias, ice cream parlors, and stores, making it a pleasant place for a morning or evening stroll. During the summer also, Betti Square is a treat; it hosts concerts, shows, events and craft markets. Mornings are characterized by serene breakfasts in the cafes that overlook the square or the sea. Between the scent of cappuccino and rice noodles, commonly called pasta di riso, tourists and non-tourists alike can enjoy a pleasant start to the day.
Marina di Massa, however, does not possess only Betti Square: moving on foot or by bicycle, it is possible to arrive at Bad Kissingen Square, which, in addition to overlooking the sea, possesses at its center one of the outstanding contemporary architectures; the marble monument entitled Le Vele, the work of sculptor Pino Castagna.
Marina di Massa is also an excellent starting point for excursions to the nearby Apuan Alps. Indeed, the mountains feature numerous hiking and mountain biking trails, with views of the Tuscan coast and surrounding countryside. Despite being a tourist resort, Marina di Massa maintains many of the local traditions, such as religious festivals and folk celebrations that give visitors an opportunity to enter the local culture. Among the most significant events is the Blessing of the Sea in June, which celebrates the sea through a procession in which a large part of the community participates. Another much-anticipated event is the White Night, during which young people have fun in the city center, respecting the dress code imposed by the evening. The summer season is also enlivened by theme nights and end-of-summer fireworks.