Lirica in Piazza
Grand open-air opera on the steps of the Massa Marittima Cathedral
About Lirica in Piazza
Opera in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma
As one of the most cherished cultural events of the Tuscan summer, Lirica in Piazza annually turns the historic center of Massa Marittima, in the province of Grosseto, into an open-air stage. The setting is among Italy's finest: the steps of the Cathedral of San Cerbone in Piazza Garibaldi, where the dramatic Romanesque-Gothic facade serves as a natural backdrop for the operatic productions.
A consolidated tradition
Established in the late 1980s, the festival has built a loyal and passionate following, drawing both local opera enthusiasts and international travelers visiting the Maremma for their summer holidays. Each edition features three consecutive nights of the most celebrated titles in the Italian operatic repertoire: from Verdi to Puccini, and Donizetti to Bizet, the great works resonate under the stars of this historic mining town.
Artists and orchestra
The stage hosts internationally acclaimed opera singers, accompanied by the Orchestra Internazionale della Campania, an ensemble of over fifty musicians led by Maestro Leonardo Quadrini, who also serves as the festival's artistic director. The stage direction is overseen by the renowned soprano Katia Ricciarelli, ensuring a level of quality and prestige that balances musical rigor with the ability to captivate even those new to the world of opera.
An experience in a medieval village
Attending a night at Lirica in Piazza is also an opportunity to discover Massa Marittima, a stunning village in the Colline Metallifere rich in mining history and artistic treasures. Before the show, a stroll through the narrow streets of the center, dinner at local traditional restaurants, and views over the Maremma countryside complete an experience that goes far beyond a simple concert. The event is organized by the Municipality of Massa Marittima and stands as one of the flagship events of the Tuscany Region's summer calendar.
Why it's worth it
- Great titles of Italian opera performed live with a full orchestra.
- A unique setting: the steps of the Cathedral of San Cerbone illuminated at night.
- Artistic direction and the prestige of a legendary name like Katia Ricciarelli.
- Three consecutive nights in August, perfect for combining with a holiday in the Maremma.
Lirica in Piazza — edition 2026
The 39th edition of Lirica in Piazza is held from August 3 to 5, 2026, in the charming Piazza Garibaldi of Massa Marittima, in front of the Cathedral of San Cerbone. Three evenings dedicated to three masterpieces of the Italian repertoire, performed by the Orchestra Internazionale della Campania conducted by Maestro Leonardo Quadrini, with stage supervision by soprano Katia Ricciarelli. All performances begin at 9:15 PM.
The 2026 novelty is a series of introductory and educational meetings, scheduled for July, designed to bring the public and newcomers closer to the operas performed in August. The Una cena da prima fila (Front Row Dinner) formula is also renewed, offering ticket discounts for those who dine at participating restaurants in the historic center.
Programme Lirica in Piazza 2026
Monday, August 3 — La Traviata (Giuseppe Verdi)
- 9:15 PM — Steps of the Cathedral of San Cerbone
- Director: Katia Ricciarelli
- Violetta: Olga Gogayzel
Tuesday, August 4 — La Bohème (Giacomo Puccini)
- 9:15 PM — Steps of the Cathedral of San Cerbone
- Director: Alessio Rizzitiello
- Rodolfo: Stefano Sorrentino
Wednesday, August 5 — Il Trovatore (Giuseppe Verdi)
- 9:15 PM — Steps of the Cathedral of San Cerbone
- Director: Alberto Paloscia
- Manrico: Michael Spadaccini
All evenings are accompanied by the Orchestra Internazionale della Campania (over 50 musicians) conducted by Maestro Leonardo Quadrini, with stage supervision by Katia Ricciarelli. Production by RTI "Musicainsieme e Bucaneve".
Highlights Lirica in Piazza 2026
Prices Lirica in Piazza 2026
Practical information — Lirica in Piazza
How to get there
Massa Marittima is located in the Colline Metallifere, in the province of Grosseto. By car, it can be reached via the SS439 or from the Follonica exit of the SS1 Aurelia (approx. 20 km). The nearest train station is Follonica-Massa Marittima, on the Rome-Genoa line, from which you can continue by bus or taxi.
Venue
Performances take place on the steps of the Cathedral of San Cerbone in Piazza Garibaldi, in the heart of the historic center. Performances begin at 9:15 PM.
Tickets
Tickets are available online via TicketOne and at authorized sales points. Various seating sectors and subscription packages for the three nights are available. For information: tel. +39 0566 906554, e-mail [email protected].
Tips
We recommend booking in advance and arriving in town during the afternoon to enjoy the village and dine at local restaurants before the show.
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Where does it take place — Lirica in Piazza
Sagrato della Cattedrale di San Cerbone (Piazza Garibaldi)
Piazza Garibaldi, 58024 Massa Marittima