villa tramontalba
a base for exploreres

Cecina, situated in the heart of Livorno province, is a key town in the Etruscan Coast region, located at the end of the Val di Cecina near the river mouth sharing its name. While Cecina itself lies a little over two kilometers inland, its coastal hamlet, known as Cecina Mare or Marina di Cecina, hugs the shoreline. Over time, the two areas have essentially melded together, forming a district along the connecting avenue.

Visitors go to Cecina for its extensive sandy beaches and amazing sea views. Each year, Marina di Cecina earns the prestigious Blue Flag recognition for the exceptional quality of its beaches and seawater.

Cecina’s roots trace back to prehistoric times, with its name possibly stemming from the Etruscan Caecina family, later known as Caecina during Roman rule. Notable landmarks include the villa built by Roman consul Albino Cecina, whose remnants lie in San Vincenzino. Despite periods of decline, significant revival occurred in 1590 when the Grand Duke of Tuscany commissioned the “Fitto di Cecina” palace for administrative purposes. However, the bubonic plague of 1631 and subsequent events led to further challenges.

The turning point arrived in the 19th century with extensive land reclamation efforts by the Lorraine Grand Dukes. Pine forests were cultivated to separate the coast from the hinterland, and railway connectivity was established in 1863. Cecina gained autonomy as a municipality in 1906, initially under Pisa’s jurisdiction before merging with Livorno in 1925. The city played a pivotal role in the Battle of Cecina during World War II, culminating in its liberation by Allied forces in 1944.

What to do:
Today, Cecina and Marina di Cecina offer idyllic beach getaways for families and young travelers alike. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Acqua Village water park, numerous bars, restaurants, clubs, and discos. The coastline features clean seas and expansive sandy beaches, while the hinterland harbors several historic villages and points of interest.

Sea and Beaches:
Cecina and Marina di Cecina offer a stretch of beaches spanning several kilometers, flanked by Rosignano Marittimo to the north and Bibbona to the south. Notable beaches include Le Gorette, Cecina Mare, and the Parco Naturale dei Tomboli di Cecina, each offering unique experiences and amenities.

Art and other attractions:
Despite its coastal allure, Cecina has several cultural attractions, including the Roman villa in San Vincenzino, the Municipal Archaeological Museum La Cinquantina, and the Parco Gallorose, a zoo and farm located south of Cecina along Via Aurelia Sud. These sites offer engaging experiences for visitors of all ages, complementing the town’s natural beauty and seaside charm.