Livorno. Italy

National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago (Parco nazionale dell "Arcipelago Toscano)

According to legend, when Venus was born from a wave of the sea, several precious stones fell from her tiara, becoming seven islands off the Tuscan coast, starting with the large Elba (223 sq. km) and ending with the legendary but modest Montecristo (just over 1000 hectares). All the islands of the archipelago, with the exception of Montecristo, today are part of a marine reserve, which exists mainly on income from biological tourism.

The national park was created in 1996 to preserve the unique ecosystem of the islands. In addition to land areas, its borders cover 60 thousand hectares of the sea that washes them. The local biodiversity is based on typical Mediterranean flora and fauna, but there are rare species such as Neptune's brush algae and monk seals, extirpated from most Italian coasts.

In the off-season, bird lovers can watch huge flocks stopping here to rest during flights between Africa and Europe. There are enough permanently inhabiting birds on the islands of the archipelago: large and Pianosa have become home to shy red partridges, and about a third of the world population of the Corsican gull, which has become a symbol of the national park, nests here.

The Tuscan Archipelago National Park is located east of Livorno.

Old Fortress (Fortezza Vecchia)

No matter how strange it may sound, the Old Fortress is one of the youngest buildings in the Livorno embankment area. The Second World War almost completely destroyed the impregnable symbol of city power, created back in the 11th century, and it required more than serious reconstruction. About 60 years ago, the historical buildings were recreated, all possible historical elements were preserved. Visitors are allowed into the fortress territory free of charge.

New Fortress (Fortezza Nuova)

This fortress was built in the 16th century for the Medici family, it is located in the area known as Little or New Venice, because. it is penetrated by a network of narrow channels. Initially, the fortress had the shape of a five-pointed star and was protected by ditches and canals. But the rapid growth of the city beyond the powerful walls diminished their importance, and after World War II, the surviving premises ceased to be used altogether.

Today, behind the red brick fortress walls there is a large city park, which has become home to dozens of stray cats.

Leopold's Wall (Mura Leopoldine)

The growing port went beyond the fortress walls, and by order of Prince Leopoldo II, the construction zone was surrounded by a new barrier. Protection was required mainly from possible smuggling of goods. The wall stretches for 8 kilometers and served the city during its defense against the Austrians in 1849. Most of it was destroyed by the bombing of World War II; only a few fragments survived. At this time, the issue of reconstructing some areas and creating park areas along them is being decided.

Museum of Natural History of the Mediterranean (Museo di storia naturale del Mediterraneo)

The natural science museum is located in the historic Villa Henderson, and its exhibition is entirely dedicated to the biology of the Mediterranean Sea. In 2009, a seed bank was created on the basis of the museum, working together with other large gene repositories in Europe.

The museum is located at 234 Roman Street. It is open from 9:00 to 13:00 from Tuesday to Friday and from 15:00 to 19:00 on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. An adult ticket costs 10 euros, a child ticket costs 5 euros.

Giovanni Fattori Museum

Dedicated to the work of Macchiaioli artists and named after one of the brightest representatives of this style of painting, it opened in 1994 in the beautiful Villa Mimbelli. The exhibition began in 1877, during the lifetime of active participants in the Macchiaioli movement, and was fully formed in the 30s of the last century.

Villa Mimbelli is located in the suburbs of Livorno, south of the city center. The museum is open from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00 from Tuesday to Sunday. The entrance ticket costs 4 euros.

Cathedral (Duomo di Livorno)

The city cathedral is the main decoration of the central pentagonal square of Livorno. It was built at the end of the 16th century in the style of Renaissance architecture and received the patronage of St. Francis. It is believed that it was this building that inspired Inigo Jones, a pioneer of English Renaissance architecture, to build Covent Garden.

The most striking, in the truest sense of the word, detail of the Cathedral is its façade. It was rebuilt and significantly changed at the beginning of the 20th century, the material was gray stone, significantly different in color from the main walls. The interior decoration consists of several large paintings on biblical themes, and the tombs of two governors who ruled the city in the 18th century are located here. In 2006, the cathedral received a new gate by Antonio Vinciguerra depicting the most significant episodes from the history of Livorno.

Church of St. Catherine of Siena (Chiesa di Santa Caterina)

The tall tower of the bell tower of the Church of St. Catherine dominates the urban landscape of the Nueva Venezia district. This church took a long century and a half to build and began functioning as a Dominican monastery long before construction was completed. During the Napoleonic era, the building was converted into a prison, which was transferred from here only in the last decades of the 20th century. After restoration work, services began here again.

The interior of the church is decorated with 1,500 square meters of frescoes from the 19th century - this is one of the largest surfaces in Tuscany. The choir houses the famous painting by Giorgio Vasari “The Coronation of the Virgin”, brought in 2007. At the side entrance there is a gallery containing a large organ. In one of the chapels of the church there are holy relics transferred here from Cagliari.

Temple of the Madonna delle Grazie

This church building is also known as the Sanctuary of Montenero, it stands on the hill of the same name, is dedicated to the patron saint of the Tuscan lands and serves as the burial place of several famous residents of Livorno.

Despite its rather modern appearance, the temple has ancient origins, beginning with a healing miracle in 1345. Construction and expansion of the temple on the top of the hill continued from the 15th to the 18th centuries. In 1603, a small chapel of the Apparition (Cappella dell'Apparizione) was built for numerous pilgrims at the foot of the hill, and only in 1956 it was replaced by a larger church, from where today the ascent to the sanctuary begins.

The temple complex of the Madonna delle Grazie is located on a rectangular platform, accessible by stairs. The main building is preceded by a portico and several memorial stones. Not far from the porch is a bas-relief by Antonio Vinciguerra depicting Pope John Paul II, installed in honor of the Pontiff's visit in 1982. The interior space is decorated with paintings by Filippo Maria Galletti, the wooden ceiling is decorated with carvings by Pietro Giambelli. The temple is equipped with a three-keyboard organ.

Museum of Jewish Culture and History (Museo ebraico Yeshivà Marini)

The museum is located at 21 Mikali Street, in a 19th-century neoclassical oratory that served as a synagogue. Its exhibition demonstrates examples of Jewish culture and evidence of Nazi persecution in Italy and Europe.

Jewish cemeteries (Cimiteri ebraici di Livorno)

Traditionally, Livorno is home to one of the largest Jewish communities, but they had to bury their dead on the Milinacci beach, until in the middle of the 17th century an area was allocated for this purpose not far from one of the city cemeteries. Ninety years later, a second cemetery appeared in Via Corallo, but in 1939 it was decided to dismantle all the graves and move them to the Stagno area to be combined with the larger cemetery opened in 1837. It functions to this day and contains the memory of those killed in the First World War and the Holocaust.

Naval Academy (L"Accademia Navale di Livorno)

The Military University in Livorno trains officers of the Italian Navy. For two centuries after construction, the building housed a hospital, and later a prison and barracks. The educational institution opened here in 1881 and, in addition to sailors, at one time it also trained pilots.

The main part of the sprawling educational complex consists of a large three-story building with three wings located at right angles. The main building is topped by a square tower with a clock on each side and the motto "Honor and Fatherland". The Naval Academy complex covers an area of ​​about 215 square meters and annually receives 1,250 students for training and retraining.

Monument to the Four Moors (Monumento dei Quattro mori)

This monument, located in Piazza Micheli, is the most famous in the city. Its installation at the end of the 16th century symbolized the revival of Livorno and the construction of new areas. Ferdinand I, whose statue tops the monument, supervised the work and was revered as the founder of the city. The figures of four captive Moors at the foot serve as a symbol of resounding victories over the pirates. They are the ones that are of greatest interest from an artistic point of view. Despite their similarity to each other, the images are carefully selected and simultaneously represent four nationalities and four stages of human life.

In the 30s of the 17th century, it was planned to supplement the composition with two fountains, made in the mannerist style and depicting sea monsters, but as fate would have it, they never left Florence, now decorating Piazza Santissima Annunziata.

During World War II, city residents did everything to save their relic: the monument was divided into separate figures, which were hidden in different hiding places. In June 1950, the monument was assembled and hoisted into place, right in the middle of the ruins of the city destroyed by bombing.

Tower on the island of Meloria (Torre della Meloria)

On an artificial island 7 kilometers away, directly opposite the port of Livorno, there is a quadrangular lighthouse tower. It was erected in 1709 and became the third in a row on this site. The island of Meloria, famous as the site of the double battle between Genoa and Pisa, is only slightly raised above the water, so the massive tower rests on four pillars, connected in pairs along the perimeter by arches, so as not to resist the lapping waves.

Teatro Carlo Goldoni

This theater was built in 1842 and is the only one of all the major theaters in Livorno that was able to survive the devastating bombing of the Second World War. The building also houses the Pietro Mascagni Museum, which contains a collection of the maestro’s personal belongings.

There was a long break in the theater's activities from the 80s until 2004, when it was closed for restoration, but was still able to restore its former glory and grandeur. The height of the auditorium is 26 meters, and a glass insert is built into the center of its roof. Initially, the hall was designed for 3,000 people, but after reconstruction, for safety reasons, the number of seats was reduced to 900.

Thermal resort (Stabilimento termale Acque della Salute)

In Piazza Dante (Via Orosi), not far from the train station, you can see an abandoned resort complex. The dilapidated buildings were abandoned several decades ago, after a fire in 1968, and the issue of their restoration has not yet been resolved.

The complex, built in 1904 in the quiet eastern part of the city, consists of three buildings standing on the site of four springs with different types of mineral water. Healing waters were discovered here back in 1854, on the site of an ancient vineyard. To be able to accommodate everyone, the luxurious Corallo Hotel was built nearby.

Despite the decline, the buildings of the former hospital are still of great cultural value, being one of the city's best examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Here you can see wooden frames decorated with fine intricate carvings. Many design elements reflect natural motifs.

Livorno is a fabulous Italian city, known for its wonderful golden beaches, mild climate, magnificent nature and unique architectural monuments. Canals, ancient relief bridges, narrow cozy streets, fortresses, churches and sculptures - all this seems to breathe the ancient Middle Ages.

What to see in Livorno on your own?

Beautiful places and main attractions: photos with descriptions in Russian.

Castello del Boccale

On the seashore in one of the southern quarters of the city is the Castello del Boccale castle (in Italian: Castello del Boccale). It gets its name from the coastline, which locals call Boccale, which translates as “jug.”

In the 16th century, an observation tower was located here, soldiers and a caretaker lived in it. It was built on the ruins of an ancient building. When the tower became the property of Marchioness Eleonora Ugolini in the 19th century, it was made part of a large residence.

The building was erected in a medieval style and has a rectangular shape, surrounded by three round towers at the corners. The facade of the residence, facing the sea, smoothly turns into an observation tower. After extensive restoration at the end of the 20th century, the building was converted into living quarters.

• Address: Strada Statale 1 Aurelia, Livorno, Italy

Temple of Montenero

On Mount Negro there is a religious complex, which is a place of pilgrimage for many Christians. The Temple of Montenero (in Italian: Santuario di Montenero), which is consecrated in honor of the patroness of the region, the Blessed Virgin Mary of Graces, was erected in 1380.

According to legend, a local shepherd accidentally found the miraculous image of the Mother of God and took it to the mountain. At that time, Monte Negro was considered a haven of bandits, robbers and thieves, so they tried to avoid this gloomy place. After news of the miraculous discovery spread, it was decided to build a basilica on the mountain.

In the 18th century, the temple fell into disrepair and was partially destroyed. Over time, it was restored and now it houses a large gallery with ancient objects. Behind the temple there are caves that are carved right into the mountain. They once served as a refuge for bandits, and now, after strengthening their vaults, they are available for inspection.

• Address: Piazza di Montenero 9, Livorno, Italy
• Opening hours: Mon - Sat 6:30 - 12:30, 14:30 - 18:00; Sun 6:30 - 13:00, 14:30 - 19:00

Church of Our Lady

One of the most interesting buildings in Livorno is the Church of Our Lady (in Italian: Chiesa della Madonna). It was built in 1607-1611 according to the design of the architect Alessandro Pieroni. In 1645, a 27-meter-high bell tower was added to the main building. In the mid-20th century, the building was heavily damaged during the bombing of the city. It was completely restored, and the façade was covered with light-colored marble tiles.

The church was built in the Baroque style and is decorated with unusual windows on the second floor. The internal space is represented by one nave, on the sides there are 6 side altars, which date back to the 17th century. Each of them has its own characteristics - wooden and marble sculptures, paintings by artists or frescoes. Above the main altar you can see a painting of the Apostle John the Evangelist by the painter Francesco Carri.

Castello Sonnino

On a high cliff, which is located near Livorno, is the castle of Castello Sonnino (in Italian: Castello Sonnino). It was named after the first owner, Baron Sidney Sonnino, on whose orders the castle was built in the 19th century. The residence was built from the square medieval fortress of Torre San Salvatore from the 16th century, which was expanded and rebuilt.

The castle is made in a medieval style; its facade is crowned with battlements, which makes the building more impressive. The main decoration of the interior are carved wooden doors with inlay in the neo-Gothic style. In 1922, at the request of the baron, he was buried in one of the grottoes. Not far from the castle there is a chapel built in 1895. Currently, the residence is privately owned, so it is rarely open to visitors.

• Address: Via del Littorale, Livorno, Italy

Armenian Church of Gregory the Illuminator

On the city street named after Our Lady, there is the Armenian Church of Gregory the Illuminator (in Italian: Chiesa armena di San Gregorio Illuminatore or Chiesa degli Armeni). It was built at the beginning of the 18th century with donations from Armenian merchants who moved to the territory of Livorno to establish trade with local residents.

The facade of the building is made in the style of classicism, it is decorated with four columns forming an arch and statues above the main entrance. The interior decoration is represented by sculptures of the 19th century and a canvas by the artist Alessandro Gherardini, which depicts the Assumption of the Virgin. There is a cemetery not far from the building, but it has been abandoned since the mid-20th century. Currently, the church is the cultural center of the city.

• Address: Via della Madonna, Livorno, Italy

Cisternoni buildings

Some of the most interesting buildings in Livorno are the three Cisternone buildings (in Italian: Cisternone). They are part of the water purification system and aqueduct reservoirs. It is Cisternoni that supplies the entire city and the large port with fresh water. Translated from Italian, their name translates as “huge tank,” which reflects their main function. Cisternoni's buildings were built in the 19th century according to the design of Pasquale Poccianti.

Their facade is made in neoclassical architectural style. The largest reservoir is La Gran Conserva, which was built in 1829 and has a very unusual appearance. Its main feature is its unusual dome, which is reminiscent of the Roman Pantheon.

In 1845, a second, smaller cistern, Cisternino di Pian di Rota, was built. It is distinguished by a massive portico on the symmetrical façade. Three years later, Cisternino di Citta was erected, which is decorated with a large loggia with columns and narrow windows. Since the mid-20th century, it has housed a cultural center.

• Address: Piazza del Cisternone, Livorno, Italy

Dutch Church

Between the two city squares Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza Cavour there is a unique building - the Dutch Church (in Italian: Chiesa della Congregazione Olandese Alemanna). It was erected in 1862-1864 according to the design of Dario Giacomelli.

Construction of the church began due to the large number of parishioners of the Dutch-German congregation, which appeared in Italy in the 17th century. The façade of the building is made in a neo-Gothic architectural style and is decorated with three rose windows. Above the main entrance there are pointed arches and stained glass windows.

After 1960, the congregation ceased to exist, and the church gradually fell into disrepair. Now the interior of the building is in deplorable condition. Visits to the church are prohibited for security reasons, but its appearance still retains some of its former beauty.

• Address: Tra Piazza Cavour e Piazza Della Repubblica, Livorno, Italy

Mausoleum of Chano

On the outskirts of Livorno is the Mausoleum of Ciano (in Italian: Mausoleo di Ciano). It was erected in 1939 as a crypt for the family of Costanzo Ciano, who at the time led the Fascist Party. According to the design of Gaetano Rapisardi, the mausoleum was supposed to be a colossal structure consisting of a huge base, which was crowned with a 12-meter marble sculpture by Chano and a 50-meter lighthouse.

Sculptor Arturo Dazzi was appointed to carry out the grandiose construction. A year later, a lighthouse was erected, which, according to the author of the project, should reflect the immortal spirit of Costanzo, but after some time it was blown up. All that remained of the building was the tower, the height of which was about 17 meters. The sculpture was never installed on its base, although it was almost finished. Currently, the mausoleum has fallen into disrepair. The interior is in poor condition; only small fragments remain of the stairs and elevator shaft.

• Address: Localit Monteburrone, Livorno, Italy

Aquarium Diacinto Cestoni

One of the most fascinating places in the city is the Diacinto Cestoni Aquarium (in Italian: L’Acquario comunale Diacinto Cestoni). It is named after the famous 17th century explorer. The building was built in the early 19th century to house a heliotherapy center. After reconstruction in 1937, it was rebuilt to create an aquarium. During the bombing of the city, the building was completely destroyed; it was restored only in 1950. At the beginning of the 21st century, a global restoration of the aquarium was carried out; it was divided into several separate buildings.

The main building is located in the very center of the complex. It is made in the shape of a rectangle, on one side there is a building in the form of a semicircle, and on the other - in the form of a cube. The aquarium has an area of ​​about 3 thousand square meters. It consists of 65 pools, which are home to 1,200 different species of fish and animals.

• Address: Piazzale Pietro Mascagni 1, Livorno, Italy
• Opening hours: Mon - Sun 10:00-18:00 (April - June), Mon - Sun 10:00-19:30 (July - August), Sat - Sun 10:00-18:00 (September - March)
• Entrance fee: 14 euros

Greek Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The most beautiful religious building in Livorno is the Greek Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (in Italian: Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata or Chiesa dei Greci Uniti). It was built at the beginning of the 17th century by the Greek community. The first Greeks worked on ships owned by Cosimo de' Medici and his descendants. In the 16th century they settled in the city and created their own community.

The façade of the building is made of light-colored marble in the Baroque style. It is decorated with many decorative elements - columns, two sculptures symbolizing Innocence and Meekness, a triangular pediment and others. The interior consists of one rectangular nave. The wooden ceiling is decorated with magnificent stucco and gilding. Particularly noteworthy is the altar, which was made in 1610 by the Greek sculptor Antimos Kolasa.

• Address: Via della Madonna | Incrocio - Via Delle Galere, Livorno, Italy

Palazzo Hugens

In the very center of one of the city's quarters called New Venice is Palazzo Huigens (in Italian: Palazzo Huigens). It was built in 1705 as a residence for local aristocrat Antonio Hugens. The building is located on one of the main streets of the city, Via Borra.

The palazzo consists of 4 floors and has a rectangular shape. Its facade is made in the Baroque architectural style and is decorated with elegant cornices, and there is a balcony above the main entrance. The courtyard of the building is decorated with magnificent decorative elements made of stucco.

During its history, the palazzo changed its owners more than once, who rebuilt the interior. During the Second World War it was heavily damaged by bombing, but over time it was restored. Nowadays the palazzo houses residential apartments.

• Address: Via Borra, Livorno, Italy

Church of San Martino

One of the oldest buildings in the city is the Church of San Martino (in Italian: Chiesa di San Martino). It was founded in the 11th century on the site of a dilapidated medieval temple. In the mid-17th century, the church was significantly expanded and rebuilt. As a result of reconstruction, it almost lost its original appearance.

In the 18th century, a priest's house was built near the church, and some time later the archive building of the Order of Santissimo Sacramento was built. The church turned into an entire religious complex consisting of several rooms. Next to it is the city cemetery. Prominent citizens of Livorno are buried there, including the famous sculptor Paolo Emilio Demi.

The main feature of the church is the apse, which has been preserved from the medieval temple and is harmoniously integrated into the current building. The facade of the church is made in the Romanesque architectural style, and the interior is in the Baroque style. Behind the altar is a 17th century painting of the Virgin and Child.

• Address: Livorno, Italy

Villa Letizia

On the outskirts of the Ardenza city quarter is Villa Letizia (in Italian: Villa Letizia) or Villa Poniatowski. It was built in the 19th century for the sons of Prince Svyatoslav Poniatowski. But after some time it was sold to another owner. The building changed its owners several times, and as a result of redevelopment and reconstruction, its appearance changed greatly.

At the end of the 19th century, an octagonal tower was added to the villa, and the rooms on the north side were converted into a hippodrome, which was later named after Federico Caprilli. In the 20th century, the building fell into disrepair, and the premises were in very poor condition. Only decades later it was restored and turned first into a summer cottage, and then the Leonardo da Vinci school was located here.

The building has a rectangular shape, and its façade is made in the Tuscan style and is decorated with a staircase and a belvedere. Now the villa is surrounded by dense vegetation and is surrounded by iron bars.

• Address: Livorno, Italy

Villa Mimbelli

On Via San Jacopo Acquaviva there is Villa Mimbelli (in Italian: Villa Mimbelli). It was built in 1865-1875 under the direction of the architect Vincenzo Micheli. The building was built for the family of a wealthy aristocrat, Francesco Mimbelli. The villa is surrounded by a magnificent garden, which was laid out in 1871.

In the 20th century, the building was badly damaged during the bombing of the city and was abandoned for some time. In the 90s, the villa was completely restored and is open to the public. The residence has a very unusual facade that stands out from other buildings. It is decorated with decorative elements and masquerons. In front of the main entrance of the villa there is a large cast-iron canopy, under which an entire carriage could previously fit.

The back wall of the building is decorated with a staircase with sculptures of ceramic cupids. The interior is covered with stucco and frescoes by Annibale Gatti. Currently, the villa houses the Giovanni Fattori Museum.

Church of Saint Ferdinando

On Piazza Anita Garibaldi is the Church of St. Ferdinando (in Italian: Chiesa di San Ferdinando). It was built in 1707-1716 according to the design of the architect Giovanni Battista Foggini.

The facade of the building is made without a specific style; there is not a single decorative element on it. The interior decoration amazes with its diversity and magnificent sculptures. The interior perfectly conveys the Baroque style thanks to a large number of stucco details. Behind the main altar of the church there are white marble statues by the sculptor Giovanni Baratta, which convey the moment of the liberation of the slaves.

In addition, the chapels are decorated with bas-reliefs, paintings and niches with pilasters, which contain sculptures of 6 canonized kings. In the mid-20th century, the building was heavily damaged by air strikes, but over time it was completely restored.

• Address: Piazza Anita Garibaldi 1, Livorno, Italy

Palazzo Mediceo

One of the oldest buildings in the city is the Palazzo Mediceo (in Italian: Palazzo Mediceo). It was built in 1543 by order of Duke Cosimo I de' Medici and was used as a residence. The palazzo was located near the Fortezza Vecchia fortress, of which only ruins now remain.

The facade of the building is made in the architectural style of Mannerism. It is characterized by the presence of a large number of decorative stone elements along the edges of the facade and around the windows of the first floor, as well as an unusual balcony on the second floor. Over several centuries, the palazzo was rebuilt and reconstructed many times. Commissars lived in its premises, there was an office and statistics. Now the headquarters of the tax office is located in the palazzo.

• Address: Piazza delle Fiamme Gialle, Livorno, Italy

Church of St. Catherine of Siena

In the Nova Venezia quarter of Livorno is the Church of St. Catherine of Siena (in Italian: Chiesa Santa Caterina da Siena). Its construction began in 1720 according to the design of the famous architect Giovanni Del Fantasia for followers of the Dominican Order, but work progressed very slowly. After 30 years, the building was built, but the façade and interior were missing.

In 1808, by order of Napoleon Bonaparte, the premises began to be used as a prison, but after some time the church was returned to the order. It underwent a major reconstruction. In 1869, a 63-meter-high tower was added to the church. At the same time, frescoes by the artist Cesare Maffei with scenes from the Gospel appeared inside. Behind the main altar you can see paintings by an unknown artist depicting the Madonna of Purgatory.

• Address: Via del Forte San Pietro 3, Livorno, Italy

Porta San Marco

A little away from most of the city's attractions is the San Marco Gate (in Italian: Porta San Marco). They were built in the mid-19th century as part of a wall and led to the port of Livorno. The wall served an administrative function rather than a protective one, since it showed the boundaries of the duty-free trade zone.

The gate is made up of stonework in light and dark shades which gives it a stunning look. A winged lion rises above the entrance, holding an open book in its paws. On the sides of the gate there are symmetrical projections, which are decorated with wonderfully preserved bas-reliefs. The passage is supported by metal columns and a magnificent arch. Currently, the gates are in excellent condition and through them you can still get to the city’s port.

• Address: Via Solferino, Livorno, Italy

Old fortress

One of the most unique buildings in the city is the Old Fortress (in Italian: Fortezza Vecchia). It was erected in 1377, and at that time it consisted of a sea fort and a square tower. At the beginning of the 15th century, two more forts were added to the fortress. The defensive fortification was complemented by a large number of different weapons.

In the first half of the 16th century, a major reconstruction was carried out in the premises of the fortress, of which a memorial tablet still reminds. Over time, a small church of St. Francis appeared on its territory, and ruler Cosimo de Medici ordered the construction of his residence here. When the need for defense ceased, the building was used as a barracks and then turned into a prison.

You can only enter the fortress from the city side. It is an asymmetrical building, which consists of three bastions. Although the appearance of the fortress is majestic and monumental, the interior is in disrepair and requires major repairs.

• Address: Piazza Dei Marmi, Livorno, Italy

New fortress

The large structure, the construction of which was founded by the New Venice quarter, is called the New Fortress (in Italian: Fortezza Nuova). It was built in 1590-1604 according to the design of the architect Buontalenti. The fortress served to protect the city from land. It is made in the shape of a five-pointed star, surrounded on all sides by moats with water. At each corner there is one bastion, which are connected by a high wall.

At the end of the 17th century, the territory of the fortress was significantly reduced due to the need to build residential buildings and the growing population of the city. The building began to be used as barracks, and then it was converted into a warehouse. During the Second World War, the fortress was heavily damaged by bombing, which destroyed almost all internal buildings. You can get into it only by bridge, since it is surrounded on all sides by water canals. Currently, there is a beautiful public park inside the fortress.

• Address: Viale Degli Avvalorati, Livorno, Italy

Monument to the Four Moors

One of the symbols of the city is the monument to the Four Moors (in Italian: Monumento dei Quattro Mori), which is located in Piazza Giuseppe Micheli. It was built in 1595-1624 according to the design of the sculptor Giovanni Bandini by order of Francesco I de' Medici. Initially, it was an ordinary monument to the ruler, but in the 17th century it was supplemented with statues of 4 chained Moors, on whose faces pain and hopelessness were written. It is built of bronze and marble and symbolizes the military power of the commander.

In 1799, the monument was practically destroyed by French soldiers, who saw in it the personification of tyranny and oppression of the people. At the last moment, local residents managed to save him, although he was badly injured. The monument was restored, but was again partially destroyed during the bombings of World War II. It was restored again in 1950 and is currently in excellent condition.

• Address: Piazza Giuseppe Micheli, Livorno, Italy

Terrace Maskani

One of the best places for walking and cycling is the Mascagni terrace (in Italian: Terrazza Mascagni). It is named after the talented composer Petro Mascagni, who was a resident of Livorno.

The terrace consists of landscaped paths, on either side of which there are green islands of vegetation, small shops and cafes. A magnificent esplanade leads to the terrace, which is made of gray stone and consists of 4 thousand columns. The pavement is laid out with slabs of light and dark colors in the form of a chessboard.

In the 19th century, a city park was located on this site, which over time turned into a terrace. The stone gazebo, built in the 1930s, is very popular among newlyweds. It consists of a round dome supported by 10 columns. Now the terrace is a favorite place for relaxation for city residents and tourists.

• Address: Viale Italia 191 | Terrazza Mascagni, Livorno, Italy

Cathedral of St. Francis

On the main square of the city is the Cathedral of St. Francis (in Italian: Cattedrale di San Francesco or Duomo di Livorno). It was designed by the famous architect Alessandro Pieroni and erected in 1606 under the direction of Antonio Cantagallino. The cathedral was originally consecrated in honor of the three saints Mary, Francis and Julia.

At the beginning of the 18th century, two additional side chapels were added to the main building, and in 1806 the cathedral received the status of a cathedral, which it still has. During the Second World War, the building was completely destroyed during the bombing of the city. After some time, it was restored according to old diagrams and drawings.

The facade is made of gray marble and decorated with columns and the coat of arms of the Medici family. Inside the cathedral you can see magnificent frescoes by Jacopo Ligozzi, Domenico Crespi and Clementi da Empoli. Visitors' attention is drawn to the 18th century altar, created by the sculptor Giovanni Baratta.

• Address: Largo del Duomo, 23, Livorno, Italy
• Opening hours: Mon - Sun 9:00−12:00, 17:00−19:00

Piazza Grande

In the very center of the city is the main square of Livorno, Piazza Grande (in Italian: Piazza Grande). At the end of the 16th century, the architect Buontalenti created a design for the central part of the city, which was supposed to consist of a square and a large church. It was erected in 1606 and consecrated in honor of St. Francis. A small rectangular platform was to appear in front of the central entrance of the building to provide unobstructed access to the church.

Over time, the most important buildings of the city were built around the square - Palazzo Grande, Palazzo Comunale, Palazzo Granducale and many others. During the bombings of World War II, the square was heavily damaged and many surrounding buildings were destroyed. Its reconstruction began after the restoration of the Cathedral of St. Francis. Like many centuries ago, Piazza Grande is now the cultural center of Livorno.

• Address: Piazza Grande, Livorno, Italy

Church of St. Julia

Not far from the central square of the city, Piazza Granta, is the Church of St. Julia (in Italian: Chiesa di Santa Giulia). It was erected in 1602.

During the Second World War, all the church's archival documents, furniture and the stunning carved wooden ceiling were destroyed. The facade of the building is made of white stone in the Baroque style. It is distinguished by its simplicity; among the decorations on it you can only see sculptures of Saints Paul and Peter. The interior has the shape of a rectangle. G

The main attraction of the church is the altar, which was built in the 17th century on an ancient pedestal from the 13th century. The side oratory retains 18th-century frescoes and a magnificent marble floor. The paintings are in excellent condition thanks to restoration in the mid-20th century.

• Address: Largo del Duomo 1, Livorno, Italy

Church of Saint Sebastian

On one of the central streets is the Church of St. Sebastian (in Italian: Chiesa di San Sebastiano). It was built in 1633 after the end of the great plague epidemic and was consecrated in honor of the heavenly deliverer Saint Sebastian.

The building was designed by the architect Giovanni Francesco Cantagallina for the followers of the Barnabite order. The facade is made in the Baroque architectural style and has a very modest appearance. It is decorated only with two sculptures of Saints Lawrence and Stephen on either side of the main entrance. The space inside the church consists of one nave and a side chapel.

The main pride of the building is the altar, framed by columns that end in semicircular cornices with statues of Faith and Love. Its central part is occupied by a painting by the artist Giorgio Vasari. The chapel is decorated with a bas-relief by Giovanni Dupre.

• Address: Via San Francesco 26, Livorno, Italy

Quarter "New Venice"

Not far from the busy central streets of the city is the calm quarter “New Venice” (in Italian: Venezia Nuova). It got its name because of the large number of small canals that permeate the entire area, which makes it look like a real Venice.

The main attraction of the quarter is the New Fortress, which amazes with its monumentality and silent grandeur. The streets of New Venice provide an opportunity to see the ancient city. They look the same as they did in the 17th and 18th centuries. At the beginning of Via Borra there is the unusual Ponte di Marmo bridge. Its parapets are made of marble, and on the left side you can see the 17th century inscriptions made by local residents in memory of their lovers.

In one of the squares in the area called Piazza dei Dominicani, there is the Church of Santa Caterina, which was built in the 18th century. The square offers a wonderful view of the canals and the New Fortress.

• Address: Via Della Venezia, Livorno, Italy

Naval Academy building

On the small street Viale Italia there is the building of the Naval Academy (in Italian: Palazzo dell "Accademia Navale). It was built in the 18th century, at that time the hospital named after St. Jacopo was located here. Members of the crews of arriving ships were treated there. The hospital consisted of several main buildings, two chapels and two cemeteries.

The recovery area was divided into two parts: one for officers, the second for ordinary sailors. In addition, goods that required quarantine were stored in separate buildings. Over time, the hospital premises began to be used as barracks and then a prison. The Naval Academy opened here in 1881.

The main building has three floors and is topped by a square clock tower. Three additional wings extend from the building. The area of ​​the academy is 215 square meters. Every year more than 1,200 people study and undergo retraining here.

• Address: Viale Italia 72, Livorno, Italy

Church of San Jacopo in Acquaviva

In the city square of the same name is the Church of San Jacopo in Acquaviva (in Italian: Chiesa di San Jacopo in Acquaviva). The first mention of it dates back to 1163, but scientists were unable to establish a reliable date for its construction.

The facade of the building is made in the neo-Renaissance style. It is characterized by the presence of a triangular pediment and decorative elements in the form of pilasters. It was completely restored in 2011. Next to the church there is a bell tower 27 meters high. The main building is built in the form of a Latin cross.

The interior space is represented by one nave. It is decorated with magnificent paintings and beautiful bronze statues. In the church you can see three altars made by local sculptor Antonio Vinciguerra.

• Address: Piazza San Jacopo in Acquaviva, Livorno, Italy

Civic Museum Giovanni Fattori

The premises of Villa Mimbelli house the Giovanni Fattori Museum (in Italian: Museum Fattori Livorno). It was opened in 1877, and in 1896 it was named after the Italian artist Giovanni Fattori. The museum's collection contains paintings by famous painters Enrico Pollastrini, Raffaello Gambogi, Adolfo Tommasi and many others.

In the 20th century, the exhibition was replenished with archaeological finds, sketches of statues, bas-reliefs by the sculptor Francois Duquesnoy, bronze masks by Pietro Tacchi and many other objects. The museum is located on three floors: on the first there are ticket offices and premises for cultural events, and the second and third floors are occupied by 13 thematic halls.

• Address: Via San Jacopo Acquaviva, Livorno, Italy
• Opening hours: Tue - Sun 10:00 - 13:00, 16:00 - 19:00
• Entrance fee: 4 euros

The wonderful resort of Livorno leaves no one indifferent and year after year delights tourists and travelers from all over the world.

The trip took place in August - the height of the tourist season. The price tag for housing in the Tuscan coast area was off the charts, so I bought these designer apartments - a loft under the very roof in the city center:

And a large marker on the map “Livorno” (hoping that there will be not just a cottage seaside strip, but an original city).

Otherwise! Livorno is a real port city, large by Italian standards, and very well located geographically!

About the architecture, decoration and color of the city!

Firstly, Livorno is not a tourist city at all. Usually cruise ships come here to take tourists for a few hours to “walk” along its famous “checkers” embankment:

It is she who is depicted on all postcards with the inscription "Livorno"

Otherwise, Livorno is a quiet provincial Italian town. And of course, in terms of architectural decoration, it is not even close to Florence, Venice and Rome... This is not worth expecting here, people come here for the measured Italian simple and unhurried life.

There are several architectural monuments, a couple of temples, the fortresses of Fortezza Vecchia and Fortezza Nuova (not that impressive, but worth a walk to them). In general, it is modest, but the overall appearance of the city is very pleasant.

Transport:

Livorno has a wonderful feature: the LIVORNO CARD tourist card, which for 5 Euro gives free travel for 3 days on all buses in the city + discounts in museums (all information on Livornonow.com)

About the sea:

This is the minus of Livorno - Livorno is a port, and therefore open there is no access to the sea. You need to go to the edge of the city by bus to the Antignano area, and the beach awaits you so-so...

My sadness knew no bounds about this, but, fortunately, there is a railway station in the city. Thus, on high-speed trains TrentItalia in 5-10 minutes you can get from Livorno to seaside cottage towns, where there are more or less pleasant swimming areas.

The entire journey from home to the beach towns took about 30 minutes:

The zones look like this: that is, an inexperienced tourist should remember that without special. You can't go into the water with rubber slippers, and in general, swimming with the local Italians means lying on rocks in the water.

My favorite nearby bathing town has become Castilionagello- there is a small park and a relatively clear beach area (photo above)

About the location:

Despite the disadvantages with the sea, Livorno is still a very convenient location.

Livorno - very conveniently located between Florence and Rome(it takes 2 hours to get to each city), so you can easily arrange a one-day visit to the cultural capitals of Italy.

Pisa: Everyone knows about Pisa that there is the Leaning Tower of Pisa and that apart from it there is nothing special to see there. So Pisa is 15-20 minutes from Livorno. You can't help but go.

Other cities (where to go from Livorno):

Cinque Terre.

While staying in Livorno, you can’t help but visit the famous Cinque Terre(a series of authentic seaside villages - the pearl of Tuscany). By the way, everything is OK here with the beaches, but what places... the heart skips a beat and melts (and a separate note is written report on the Cinque Terre). Must watch:

Lucca.

And also not far from Livorno there is a famous Lucca leather goods manufacturing center(who dreams of the vaunted Italian leather - MUST visit), and in general, the souvenir business here is beyond praise. Although, well, all kinds of shopping! Walking through the cozy streets of this ancient city, where a whole defensive ring of city walls and towers has been erected, where everything is literally saturated with medieval antiquity, is a special pleasure!

And again about Livorno:

On the Internet, in traveler reports, you can find mentions that Livorno has very inexpensive shopping. This is true: there are inexpensive cafes on the embankment, the most inexpensive coffee that I have encountered in all my travels. And the price tag for clothes and shoes is clearly “non-tourist”. But I can’t say that there is a great abundance of shops in Livorno. Rather, if you walk deeper into the city, you will find small shops and mini-shops with locally made shoes.

Livorno is one of the youngest but most special cities in Italy. It is located in a picturesque bay along the Tuscany promenade and is washed by the Ligurian Sea.

The Livorno hills surround the city and give it an advantageous location to attract tourists.

Livorno on the map of Italy is located in the east of the Ligurian coast.

Livorno on the map of Italy

It is a major port, administrative, industrial and cultural center, which is famous for its extraordinary number of attractions and events.

Based on the results of the work of archaeologists, it is believed that the settlement of the modern territory of Tuscany occurred during the Neolithic period. In the 10th century, the Aurelian Way was built between Rome and Gaul. To protect it, a security tower was built, which was located in the bay. After some time, a small village is formed here.
The name Livorno is mentioned in the documentation of 1017. Presumably, this name comes from the word Liburna, which means “fast ship”.
The construction of the port began at the end of the 13th century, after the Pisa harbor flooded, as a result of which the passage of ships there became more difficult.

The construction of a lighthouse in 1303 and a fortress in 1377 marked the beginning of the life of the new port city of Livorno.

The development of the city during the reign of the Duke of Florence gained momentum. The construction of fortifications and the construction of a canal to connect with the city of Pisa is underway.
Beginning of the 18th century – this is a time of prosperity and enrichment of the port. But the end of the century is characterized by some regression due to the capture of Tuscany by Napoleon.
The port suffered great damage during World War II. A huge part of historical monuments was destroyed during the bombing. Over time, some of them were restored.

Attractions

Guests of Livorno should definitely see the main attractions:

You can take a virtual walk around the city by watching the video:

Beach holiday

The cargo port of Livorno occupies a significant part of the water area, so the beaches in the central part of the city are not very spacious and not very suitable for tourists.

You won't find sun loungers or other beach accessories here.

The northern part of Livorno, where the snow-white beach stretches for a long distance to the village of Marina di Pisa, is a good place to sunbathe.

Free beaches in Italy are less common than good roads in Russia.

The beach in the Antignano area is perfect for relaxation. But keep in mind that the terrain here is rocky. This place is unlikely to be suitable for families with children and diving.

An excellent option for family fun is the sandy beach of Cecina Mare. This beach has a fee. Closer to the pine forest there are free recreation areas.

In the bay between Livorno and Piombino there is another beach, Marina di Bibbona, where you can practice various water sports and relax in a nearby restaurant; there are a sufficient number of them on the embankment.
The beach season in Livorno starts in June and ends in October. During this period of time, the average water temperature is 23-25 ​​degrees.

Shopping

The city center of Livorno is the place where shopping lovers should definitely go, because this is where all kinds of shops and markets are concentrated. The best streets for shopping are Via Magenta and Via Ricasoli. Antiques and luxury clothing can be purchased in shops along the ancient street of Bora.

The assortment is usual for Italian cities - branded clothing, accessories, appliances, jewelry.

In the central square Delle Erbe there is an open-air vegetable market. Nearby is the Central Market, where a huge variety of products are presented.

Holidays and festivals

In addition to sightseeing, beach holidays and shopping, Livorno offers tourists a lot of spectacular events. The city's entertainment program is filled with many festivals and cultural events.

Kitchen

Local cuisine includes an abundance of all kinds of fish and seafood. Signature fish soup Cacciucco, Livorno-style mullet and stuffed squid are the culinary calling card of the city of Livorno.

These dishes can be found in any restaurant in the city.

They eat absolutely any fish and seafood - cod, sardines, shellfish, crustaceans, and even shark.

Cacciucco is a traditional Italian fish soup. Like all soups from this Tuscan region, it is very thick.

Livorno's signature desserts are custard and anise donuts.

There is also a custom to eat certain foods on some religious holidays.

For example, chestnuts are baked for the feast of St. Catherine and St. Nicholas, and rice pancakes are prepared for St. Joseph’s Day.

How to get there

Airplane.
The airports closest to Livorno are in Rome, Pisa, and Florence. You can get from Rome or Florence to Livorno by train. An intercity bus runs from Pisa to the port.

Train.

• By rail, Livorno can be reached from Rome (Roma Termini station) within 3-4 hours;
• From the Firenze S.M. Novella station in Florence, the train will take you 1.5 hours;
• The train will cover the distance between Pisa and Livorno in 15 minutes.

Bus.

• Travel time from Florence to Livorno will be from 3.5 to 4 hours;
• From Pisa Station you can easily reach the city within an hour;
• There is no bus service between Rome and Livorno.

Automobile.
When leaving Florence by car, take the Firenze-Pisa-Livorno motorway. Taking the A12 Rome – Civitavecchia motorway and the SS-1/E80 motorway you are guaranteed to reach the port of Livorno.

Local landscapes fascinate travelers

Ferry. In Livorno you can try out a means of transportation such as a ferry. The cost of ferry tickets depends on the date of your trip - the earlier you book, the better.

The ferry from Livorno to Sardinia operates daily in summer. Travel time is 6 hours 30 minutes.

The ferry from Livorno to Corsica takes about 4 hours. Also in Livorno there are ferry crossings to Sicily, Spain, and Morocco.

Hotels

There are about 38 hotels and inns on the territory of Livorno. Starting from budget 2-star hotels and ending with luxurious 5-star hotels.

Livorno, although not the most ancient place in Italy, is a rather beautiful and hospitable town that puts its snow-white beaches, medieval attractions, incredible festival atmosphere and miraculous breath of the sea at the disposal of any guest!

Livorno is an Italian city located on the northwestern coast of the Apennine Peninsula. This is a large port city, known since the 16th century. Most vacationers find themselves in Livorno passing through on the way to the more popular cities of Tuscany - Pisa or Lucca. However, if fate brought you to this Italian town for a day, a lot of interesting attractions of Livorno will easily allow you to immerse yourself in the usual Italian life.

Today Blogoitaliano will talk about how to organize your holiday in Livorno, what to see and what to try first, as well as how to quickly get from Livorno to Florence or Pisa.

Sights of Livorno

It’s hard to imagine a holiday in Livorno without sightseeing. Being a major port city for centuries, Livorno attracted merchants from different countries, who had a significant influence on the formation of its appearance. It is not for nothing that it is called the city of a hundred nationalities. During the bombing of World War II, Livorno was practically wiped off the face of the earth, so for the most part, all that can now be seen here are restored buildings on medieval foundations, preserving the romance of 500 years ago.

Livorno is a famous port city since the 16th century.

The main attraction and real symbol of Livorno is the Old Fortress. Despite the fact that it was built back in the 11th century, and then noticeably transformed in the 16th century, that impregnable symbol of the power of Livorno was practically destroyed. And strange as it may sound, the Old Fortress today is considered one of the youngest buildings in the city. Its restoration began some 50 years ago and continues to be restored to this day. Anyone can visit the old fortress completely free of charge.

The Old Fortress is the most recognizable landmark of Livorno

Another one historical landmark of Livorno - New Fortress, built for the Medici family in the 16th century. in the picturesque area of ​​New Venice. Initially, the fortress looked like a five-pointed star, surrounded by ditches and canals, but with the growth of the city, the massive walls lost their significance, and after the bombing of the 20th century. and completely ceased to be used for its intended purpose. Now the fortress houses a cozy city park.

New fortress in the picturesque area of ​​New Venice

The area in which the New Fortress is located is also interesting. It's called Little or New Venice thanks to the large number of canals, bridges and preserved architecture of the 16th-17th centuries. In the Middle Ages, this area was chosen by wealthy merchants; several elegant baroque mansions and villas have been preserved to this day as a reminder of their stay.

Cathedral in Piazza Granda (Livorno, Italy)

Central square of Livorno, Piazza Granda, adorns another famous landmark - Duomo di Livorno Cathedral. It is easy to recognize thanks to its gray façade, which is significantly different from the main color of the rest of the walls. The main doors of the cathedral are also interesting, depicting the most significant episodes in the history of the city.

It is believed that it was this cathedral, built back in the 16th century, that inspired Inigo Jones to build Covent Garden.

In addition to the cathedral, other religious buildings are of interest in Livorno: the Dutch Church - Chiesa della Congregazione Olandese Alemanna, the Waldensian Church of St. Andrew, the Anglican Church of St. George, the Armenian Church of San Gregorio Illuminatore, the Greek Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin, the Church of St. Catherine of Siena and rising on the hill Montenero Temple of the Madonna delle Grazie. Such an abundance of faiths and religions once again reminds us of the historical multinational past of the Italian town of Livorno.

The Armenian Church of St. Gregory is one of the examples of the multinationality of Livorno

Located on Piazza Michelli, you should not ignore monument to the four moors- the most popular and famous monument in the city. It was installed at the end of the 16th century. in honor of the great victories of Ferdinand I over sea pirates. It is the pirates in the form of the Moors that are of the greatest interest. According to the author, they personify 4 different nationalities at different stages of human life.

Monument to the Four Moors in Livorno (Italy)

Museum lovers tired of the bustle of the city can visit the famous one in Livorno Museum of Natural History of the Mediterranean, which is entirely dedicated to the biological diversity of this region. The museum is located in the historic Villa Henderson at Viale Roma, 234, around which there is a quiet and cozy English garden.

Maskani Terrace – a place for leisurely walks

When all the sights have been explored, museums have been explored and you want to take a leisurely stroll along the coast, go to Maskani terrace. This is one of the favorite vacation spots of the townspeople. Numerous cafes and shops, perennial trees that provide the long-awaited coolness and freshness of the sea breeze - all this can be found on the Maskani terrace. It ends at the city aquarium, which has collected more than 150 species of marine fauna. If you still have some strength left, it’s worth stopping by here, for good reason Aquarium Livorno considered the third largest in Italy.

Where to eat and what to try in Livorno?

The cuisine of Livorno incorporates all the traditions of Tuscany accumulated over centuries, complementing them with exquisite fish delicacies of the Mediterranean. Therefore, it is definitely worth trying the local dishes.

You can start the day in one of the many city cafes with a cup of cappuccino and a bagel with jam or cream, as the locals themselves do. In addition, for breakfast we recommend trying the very tasty local dessert Budino di Riso.

After a hearty breakfast, you can go to the central fish market of Livorno - Mercato Centrale, where every day except Sunday, from 6 am to noon, they sell the freshest seafood, Mediterranean vegetables and fruits, famous Italian pasta and very inexpensive aromatic olive oil. Here you can easily pick up food for a picnic, which you can then arrange in the Villa Fabbricotti park. Don't forget to take home the local pie “Torta di Ceci”.

The Central Market is one of the main attractions of the city

As an afternoon snack, locals prefer Schiacciata - a piece of flat bread with olive oil, sausages and cheese, or Roschette - small rings of dough. In general, bakery products play an important role in the life of Livornians.

Livorno also loves seafood delicacies. All the exquisite tastes of the sea can be enjoyed at the Cantina Senese restaurant, located at Borgo dei Cappuccini 95, or at the Ca’ Moro boat restaurant in Piazza del Pamiglione. Regardless of your choice of location, we recommend trying the local Cacciucco, which is made from five types of sea creatures and served with garlic bread.

You can also have an inexpensive meal at the La Barrocciaia osteria on Piazza Cavallotti 13. If you find a free table, feel free to take it, you can save a lot on the main dishes, but if you’re unlucky, take a large sandwich with you for only 5-7 euros.

Tuscan meat dishes are best prepared at the Cantina Senese tavern, which can be found in the Borgo di Livorno area.

Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Tuscan wines. They are served both in traditional restaurants and in famous enotecas Parole e Cibi, Cantina Nardi, La Botte e il Tappo and others.

Well, you can complete your gastronomic journey through Livorno with the most delicious ice cream in Tuscany, which can be found in numerous gelaterias both in the city and on the seashore.

Beaches of Livorno

Livorno is not the best choice in terms of a beach holiday. The city has several very small beaches, more like an equipped place for going into the water. And the nearby industrial port has a negative impact on water quality.

Despite the fact that Livorno is located on the seashore, there are not many beaches here

However, for those who like to lazily bask in the sun on the picturesque seashore, there is an excellent way out. It is enough to go north outside the city, to where the city canal connects the Arno River with the sea. There is an excellent sandy beach stretching almost 10 km all the way to Marina di Pisa. There are also good beaches in the south of the city in the Antignano and Ardense areas.

Livorno Hotels

For those who don’t like the crowds on the city beach, you can choose a hotel in Livorno with its own beach. There are few such hotels and they are all located far from the center. Among the most popular:

• Hotel Rex**** (located in the south of the city in the Antignano area, 6 km from the center)
• Hotel Gennarino*** (located in an elegant early 20th century villa in the south of the city)
• Villaggio Miramare (also located in the south of Lirovno, 7 km from the center. Guests are provided with separate bungalows on the coast with their own kitchen and access to the sea)

Hotel Rex – a hotel where you can admire incredible scenery right from your balcony

If the presence of a beach is not a fundamental condition for you, finding a decent hotel at reasonable prices in the city center will not be difficult. You can do this using the link below.

How to get from Livorno to Florence or Pisa

For those who consider a stop in the city of Livorno in Italy only as a transit on the way to such famous cities as Pisa or Florence, Blogoitaliano has prepared several recommendations on how to organize your trip to see one of them or 2 cities at once in 1 day.

• The first, simplest and most popular method is. Our guide to Tuscany, Natalia, about whom Blogoitaliano already wrote in the article “”, will help organize such an excursion.
• The second popular way is to rent a car [link] and see two cities on your own or choose one of them. Fortunately, it’s not that far from Livorno to Pisa and Florence: it’s 27 km to Pisa, and 94 km to Florence. You can pick up a car in the city center, where shuttle buses deliver all vacationers from the port. Don't want to waste time and wait for the shuttle? Use a taxi service. A transfer to the city center will not cost that much. For those planning to travel around Italy in a rented car, we recommend reading the article: “”
• And finally, the third way is to get to Florence or Pisa by public transport. There are two options here: the first is to take the shuttle to Piazza Grande and buy a bus or train ticket to Florence or Pisa at a tobacconist; the second option is to go from the port directly to the Livorno train station by bus number 1, and then by train to Pisa, Florence or Lucca.

Attention! Don't forget to validate your tickets before boarding the train. You can read about how to do this in the article “”