The province of Massa-Carrara in the northwestern corner of the Tuscany, is different significantly geologically and economically from the rest of the provinces of the Tuscany. The two scenic cities of Massa and Carrara are in an almost unbelievably beautiful scenery, formed by the Ligurian Sea in the west and the mountains of the Apuan Alps, with the widely luminous white marble quarries. For the guests from home and abroad was the area at the foot of the mountains, the Versilia, always popular. In the evening, the entire coast from Marina di Carrara to Viareggio is full of light, and under the palms of the waterfront promenade, the people are strolling. Now concerts and theaters, cafes, ice cream parlors, discos and nightclubs are waiting for the guests. The provincial capital Massa (67 000 pop.) covers both sides of the Autostrada della Versilia from the seaside resort of Marina to the densely wooded foothills of the Apuan Alps.

Castello Malaspina The original fort over the city was turned in the 16th Century into a renaissance palace. Wonderful views to the sea! July to Sept. Tue-Sun 9.30am-12.30pm and 4pm to 8pm, Oct.-June Sat 9.30am-12.30pm and Sun 3pm-6pm.

Duomo Nicely marble facade, baroque interior and a princely tomb. Palazzo Cybo-Malaspina A gloomy palace from 1560 with a lovely courtyard. Piazza Aranci

where to stay Massa is the Galleria (18 bedrooms, Viale della Democracy, 2) recommended. In Marina di Massa are some hotels that are open all year round, and a beautiful beach front located youth hostel (Via delle Pinete, 237).

food                                                                                                                                                                          Il Bottaccio An old mill 5 km outside in Montignoso with an Italian design first-class restaurant with luxury apartments. daily. Via Bottaccio, 1                                                                                                                                                                Il Passeggero Osteria in the basement of an old palazzo in the center of the Piazza Aranci. Typical dishes of the area and excellent dolci. Sun closed. Via Alberica, 1

Carrara The marble city (66 000 pop.) 8 km north of Massa pushes 100 meters higher up the mountains than the 5 km distant sister city. The marble blocks are waiting to be loaded, the "milk stream," which the dust of the marble has dyed white, flows through the city. Marble covered is the romanesque-gothic Duomo (11th century) the "Giant" fountain of Baccio Bandinelli. Marble quarries To the cave of Carrara are well signposted roads to reach it.

Viareggio In the summer thousands of people are enjoying the beach nearly 25 miles southeast, the largest seaside resort (58 000 pop.) at the Versilia, with its Palm Avenue.