The area used to be a marsh until the end of the XVIII century. Here a rail network was built in 1902: it connected the mines around Massa Marittima to the harbour and it was used to transport iron, pyrite and coal. The network was extended at the beginning of the XX century until Follonica and a passenger transport service was also provided.
In 1944 the railway was definitely closed down and the only part left is the old train station.
By the old train station, a traditional cattle fair takes place on the 1st of September every year.
Recently refurbished, the historic station from which trains once departed for the coast has been given a new lease of life, transformed into a cycle tourism hub from which to begin exploring the area by bike. This project ties in with another major initiative: the 3M cycle tourism routes. The Fonte del Tordino has been restored, the playground refurbished, and the Via dei Chiassarelli – the historic route linking Ghirlanda and Massa Marittima – has been revitalised, transforming it into a tourist trail suitable for walking and cycling, which will connect the park-and-ride car park in the main town with the Fonte del Tordino, the starting point for tours of the surrounding area.
