Museum of Art and History of Mining

The history of the mining industry of Massa Marittima is exhibited in this very small museum.

Admittedly, it’s not the most interesting museum in town. You really have to be interested in mining and minerals to enjoy it.

The most beautiful part of the museum is the room where the personal effects of the 19th and 20th century Massa Marittima miners are displayed. There are lunch boxes, lamps, helmets, shoes, uniforms and many other tools on display. I also really enjoyed looking at the old letters, work books and contracts.

The section dedicated to the tools used in mining in the 20th century is also very fascinating. Keep an eye out for the old-fashioned telephone and signals taken from the actual mines in the area.

The rest of the museum is dedicated to explaining the changes that have occurred in the landscape of Massa Marittima over the centuries and the evolution of mining activity in the area. The maps displayed in these rooms are interesting, but only if you have a geology degree. The same goes for the minerals and rocks on display in the next room.

I know it may sound a little harsh, but this is an educational museum more suited to students studying geology than tourists. I would say only visit if you really love mining or if you have just come from Mining Museum and you want to better understand the story behind all this. Definitely not one for kids!