La California: Local History and Nature in Tuscany

La California: History on the Via Aurelia

If you would like to understand a Tuscan place not only through its landscape but also through its origins, La California offers several specific points of reference. The origins of the town are traced to around 1840, at a crossroads where the Via Aurelia met the road to Bibbona. The name La California was first recorded there in the first municipal population register in 1865. An osteria run by Attilio Fabbri had been established at the same crossroads. The 1881 census documents that Amerigo Gabbani took over the innkeeper’s business from Fabbri. Through the Demi family, heirs of the Gabbani family, this tradition continued until after the Second World War. Historical postcards show the Osteria Gabbani in La California. This makes the town’s history tangible in a specific place, without restricting yourself to a general account of Tuscany.

Church and Regional Traditions

Another prominent building is the parish church of Nostra Signora di Fatima. It was inaugurated and consecrated in October 1968. Its modern style is reflected in low walls and a high roof reminiscent of a hut. As early as March 1958, the autonomous parish of Nostra Signora di Fatima had been separated from the parish of S. Ilario in Bibbona. The reasons given were the growing population and the increasing flow of tourists. Regional agriculture and livestock farming are also part of the documented life of the town. From 20 to 23 August 2026, the 94th Fiera della Zootecnia was scheduled to take place in La California. Four days were dedicated to agriculture, livestock farming, and the traditions of the region; once again, the Chianina cattle breed was at the center of the event.

Protected Landscapes and Paths

In the surroundings of La California, the Pineta di Marina is part of the Riserva Naturale Tomboli di Cecina nature reserve. There is a five-kilometre-long path there that can be used on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback. In the vicinity of La California, the Pineta di Marina can be reached via the La California exit of the SS1 Aurelia. Then follow the signs to Marina di Bibbona. The Riserva Naturale Biogenetica Bibbona is also located in the surroundings of La California. Access on foot is unrestricted; access by vehicle is prohibited except for authorised vehicles. The area is predominantly wooded and characterised by Mediterranean maquis, including holm oaks, strawberry trees, and myrtles. A footpath of approximately 2.1 kilometres leads from the natural car park to the central area of the Grotte Gialle.

Practical Points of Interest in the Town

In La California, there is a car park along Via della Camminata serving the activities and services located there. For children between 3 and 12 years old, the playground on Via Togliatti has a slide tower with climbing elements and a swing. There is also a dog exercise area described as spacious, free of charge, and safe. This makes it possible to take different interests into account when planning a day without losing sight of the town’s history and natural attractions. The bus service operated by Autolinee Toscane connects Cecina, California, and Marina di Bibbona. You can also check Stazione Bolgheri and Marina Di Bibbona.

For the overarching travel overview: Bibbona.