Tagliata Etrusca: A marvel of ancient engineering

The Tagliata Etrusca, located near Ansedonia in the province of Grosseto, is a remarkable feat of ancient hydraulic engineering. Despite its name, it is believed to have been constructed by the Romans during the Republican era, rather than by the Etruscans. This impressive canal was carved into the rocky promontory to prevent the silting up of the ancient Portus Cusanus, the port of the Roman city of Cosa. The Tagliata Etrusca served to maintain a constant water flow, preventing stagnation and silting by creating counter-currents from the sea and the emissary canal of nearby Lake Burano. The canal is equipped with gates that were opened seasonally to regulate water flow. Visitors can climb stairs carved into the rocks to admire the sea channeling through the underground grottos. Nearby, you'll find the Spacco della Regina, a natural fissure in the rock linked to legends of an Etruscan queen named Ansedonia. This crevice may have served a similar drainage function. The beach around the Tagliata Etrusca features dark sand and clear turquoise waters. The remains of the ancient city of Cosa are also nearby, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.