A port city on the western coast of Tuscany and overlooking the Ligurian Sea, Livorno is full of history and wonders to discover. The city is the capital of the Livorno Province and the third-largest city in Tuscany, and features a rich heritage that drew people from around the Mediterranean in the 16th century. Characterized by a mix of ancient fortresses, regal churches, and Venetian-inspired canals, Livorno has no shortage of places to explore, sights to see, and things to do. Stimulate your senses in the coastal city with everything from incredible architecture to fascinating history and sumptuous cuisine.
Areas & Neighborhoods in Province of Livorno
Livorno's many historic streets, canals, and sprawling piazzas give it a unique character unlike other cities in the Tuscan region. Get to know the one-of-a-kind city as you explore, traveling from bustling markets to tranquil seaside ports.
Venezia Nuova - Literally translated to "New Venice," Venezia Nuova is modeled after the floating city and known as the Tuscan Venice. The area was established in 1629 is bound on both ends by Fortezza Vecchia and Fortezza Nuova. Landmarks like the Church of Santa Caterina, San Ferdinando Church, and the old Teatro San Marco stand over the network of canals, retaining the original feel of the district.
Via della Madonna - The partly pedestrian street of Via della Madonna runs through the center of Livorno between Via Grande and the Scali del Vescovado. The road is lined with churches that reflect the diverse history and culture of the city, including the façade of the former San Gregorio Illuminatore Armenian Church, the Santissima Annunziata or Greek United Church, and the Church of the Madonna, which houses altars for the French, Portuguese, Dutch, and Corsican communities.
Medici Fortresses - Livorno is home to 2 Medici fortresses: the old fort of Fortezza Vecchia in Medici Port, and Fortezza Nuova on the boundary of Venezia Nuova. Fortezza Vecchia dates back to medieval times, but was built up in the 1500s before the construction of Fortezza Nuova later that century. The fortresses act as symbols of the city, and Fortezza Vecchia is home to the Church of San Francesco, while Fortezza Nuova functions as a public park with views over Piazza della Repubblica.
What to See in Livorno
Livorno is packed with impressive architecture, statues, and landmarks that date back hundreds of years. One of the city's most popular icons is the Monument of the Four Moors, a 1626 monument in Piazza Micheli that commemorates the victories of Ferdinand I of Tuscany over the Ottomans. The Sanctuary of Montenegro, which is dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie, is a popular pilgrimage destination south of the city. In addition to breathtaking churches like the Cathedral of Livorno, Church of San Ferdinando, and Church of Santa Giulia, Livorno is also home to the historic Synagogue of Livorno, or Tempio Maggiore.
Sightseeing in Province of Livorno
Explore the history and culture of Livorno by roaming its many comprehensive museums. The public gallery of Museo Fattori showcases Tuscan art and is housed in the beautiful gardens of the 19th-century Villa Mimbelli. Learn about the long heritage of the Jewish community in the city with a visit to the Yeshiva Marini Jewish Museum, which features antiques from Livorno's original 17th-century synagogue that was destroyed during World War II. The Natural History Museum offers insight in the entire Mediterranean region as well. Take time to relax in the sprawling and immaculate parks of the city, such as Villa Fabbricotti-the largest park in Livorno featuring an 18th-century mansion at its core-and the serene Villa Corridi. The region is Tuscany is famous for its food and wine, and Livorno is no exception. Explore the rolling vineyards of the Tuscan countryside just a short distance from the city, or immerse yourself in the mouthwatering cuisine of the country by dining or partaking in a cooking class. The bustling market of Mercado delle Vettovaglie features hundreds of stalls where you can sample fish, food, and drink while absorbing the local atmosphere. For a change of pace, make a day trip to cities like Pisa or Florence before returning to Livorno for an unbeatable sunset over its canals.
