Orbetello, Coastal commune in Tuscany, Italy
Orbetello is a commune in the Tuscan province of Grosseto, sitting on a narrow strip of land in the middle of a lagoon. The settlement connects both shores through an artificial causeway road that splits the water into two basins.
Etruscans founded the settlement in the 4th century BC, before Rome took control in 280 BC and established the colony of Cosa nearby. During the Middle Ages, the town passed between different rulers until Spain established a military garrison here from the 16th century onward.
The old town preserves traces of Spanish rule with a 16th-century Palazzo del Governatore and fortifications from that era. The cathedral, built on ancient foundations, still shows Gothic elements from the 14th century.
The seven districts of Albinia, Ansedonia, Fonteblanda, Giannella, Quattro Strade, San Donato, and Talamone each offer their own coastal access and different facilities. The old town on the peninsula strip can be explored on foot, while the lagoon causeway connects both nature reserves.
The lagoon hosts a WWF nature reserve covering over 26 square kilometers (10 square miles), where numerous migratory birds rest and nest. Flamingos, herons, and other waterfowl use the area during their journeys between Europe and Africa.
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