Casciana Terme Lari is a comune (municipality) in the Province of Pisa, within the Italian region of Tuscany. The municipality was established on 1 January 2014 through the merger of the former comuni of Casciana Terme and Lari, as part of a regional initiative to consolidate local administrations.
Geography
The comune covers an area of approximately 124 km² (48 sq mi) and is situated in the western part of the Tuscan plain, at an elevation of about 130 m (425 ft) above sea level. It lies roughly 45 km (28 mi) southwest of the provincial capital, Pisa, and is bordered by the municipalities of Palaia, Peccioli, and Montaione, among others. Coordinates are approximately 43°41′ N latitude and 10°38′ E longitude.
Demographics
According to the most recent data from the Italian National Institute of Statistics (Istat) available up to 2022, Casciana Terme Lari had a resident population of roughly 13 000 inhabitants. The demographic profile reflects a mixture of long‑standing local families and residents attracted by the area's thermal spa facilities and rural tourism.
Administration
The municipal government is headed by a mayor (sindaco) and a council (consiglio comunale) elected under the Italian local‑government system. The administrative seat is located in the former town of Casciana Terme.
Economy
The local economy is diversified, with notable contributions from:
- Thermal tourism – Casciana Terme is renowned for its natural hot springs, which have been developed into spa and wellness centers attracting both domestic and international visitors.
- Agriculture – The surrounding countryside supports cultivation of olives, grapes, and cereals, typical of Tuscan agricultural practices.
- Small‑scale manufacturing and services – Including artisanal food production, retail, and hospitality sectors that serve both residents and tourists.
Cultural and Historical Sites
- Parco Termale di Casciana – A public park surrounding the thermal springs, featuring historic bathhouses and landscaped gardens.
- Castello di Lari – A medieval castle located in the historic center of Lari, now serving as a cultural venue and museum.
- Churches and chapels – Several religious structures dating from the Romanesque to the Baroque periods, such as the Church of San Lorenzo in Lari and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Terme in Casciana Terme.
- Annual events – The comune hosts cultural festivals, including a traditional “Festa della Castagna” (Chestnut Festival) and various religious processions.
Transportation
Casciana Terme Lari is accessible via the SS67 regional road, which connects the area to Pisa and Florence. The nearest railway stations are located in the neighboring towns of Poggibonsi and Pontedera, providing regional train services. Public bus lines operated by the provincial transport authority serve the local communities.
References
- Italian National Institute of Statistics (Istat), demographic and statistical data.
- Official website of the Comune di Casciana Terme Lari.
- Regional law (Legge Regionale Toscana) establishing the municipal merger, 2013.