Castle Mago is the former residence of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany. It is situated between the renowned cities of Siena and Lucca, in a triangle of high quality wine production. Notable are Sassicaia and Ornellaia. Today this magnificent "Historical Residence", offers the chance to experience history with all the modern comforts of the 21st century. The castle is open during the summer months and is rented weekly as an exclusive, private villa.
As this is a land famous for the production of DOC and DOCG wines known all over the world, one of the recommended activities is a tour of local producers, such as Sassicaia and Ornellaia. Tours should be booked in advance directly from the castle. Visits can be personalized according to taste and expertise. Wine experts will guide and assist you throughout the itinerary.
Castle Mago is located on the Etruscan Coast in an area with many tourist attractions, including historical sights, art, culture and cuisine. With its splendid medieval towns and landscape, the Etruscan Riviera has many interesting things to discover.
Some places and events worth mentioning are:
- Campiglia Marittima with its festival "Apriti Borgo" (medieval festival, August).
- Suvereto with "Calici Sotto le Stelle" (wine festival, August).
- Bolgheri and its renowned wines, such as Sassicaia and Ornellaia.
- Populonia and Baratti's Etruscan tombs.
- The beautiful Elba Island.
- San Vincenzo and its "Palio della Costa Etrusca" (horse race on the beach, Easter Monday).
- Massa Marittima with "Balestro del Girifalco" (May & August).
A visit to the outstanding Castle Mago will make any holiday an unforgettable experience.
History
Castle Mago was built during the first decade of the 16th century and became the residence of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, during the reclamation of the Maremma land.
Leopold II was born on 3 October, 1797 in Florence and died in Rome on 29 January, 1870. He was the last Grand Duke of Tuscany, reigning from 1824 and abdicating in 1859.
Castle Mago was been the residence of many Grand Dukes of Tuscany, but Leopold II lived there the longest. Documents dating back to 1529 demonstrate the existence of a former palace that was renovated to become the administrative headquarters of the Campiglia Marittima Railways.
In 1860, the Castle passed into the hands of the Merciai family, who transformed it into a "Historical House" open to all those who wished to enjoy an unforgettable holiday while discovering this beautiful land rich in history and art.
Subsequent works carried out since 1900 have been supervised by the Italian Institute of Fine Arts. Today, the castle represents one of the most important monuments of the Tuscan Maremma.
Distances from major touristic sights:
- Castagneto Carducci – Bolgheri and its vineyards: 7 km
- Golf of Baratti: 10 km
- Populonia and the Etruscan Tombs: 10 km
- Pelagone Golf Club: 25 km
- Punta Ala: 20 km
- Massa Marittima – art and wine itineraries: 30 km
- Volterra – Alabaster, “Balze” and museums: 50 km
- San Gimignano and its towers: 75 km
- Siena – Piazza del Campo – Chianti: 95 km
- Lucca: 100 km
- Florence: 160 km
- Rome: 250 km
- Nearest airport - Pisa
