Start the journey through the rich history at the stand-alone Saint Mark Gate. The only remaining gate of the city walls, topped by a majestic lion statue, overlooks a tranquil square in memory of the fallen during the Independence War, whose names are commemorated on a plaque on the stonework.
On the way to Livorno’s beating heart: the lively New Venice district, crisscrossed by a dense system of canals, you will first encounter the 19th-century San Marco Theatre, once one of the biggest in the city. Unfortunately destroyed during the Second World War, the historic ruins of great testimonial value witnessed the founding congress of the Italian Communist Party, featuring illustrious Livornese and Ilio Barontini.
Just a stone’s throw away, marvel at the immersive world inside the Church of Saint Catherine of Siena and the precious canvas “Coronation of Mary”, which used to be in the Vatican. In contrast to its simplistic appearance, the 18th-century Baroque temple is considered the biggest frescoed church in Tuscany.
Proceed to relive the turbulent past in the New Fortress, majestically standing in the middle of a lake and connecting with the city through a small bridge. The integral part of Livorno’s mighty defensive system played a critical role in defending Livorno in fierce medieval and modern wars. The weathered structure now serves as a public park hosting colorful cultural events celebrating Livorno’s rich maritime heritage.
Next, stroll across the bright Republic Square under the solemn stares of the imposing statues of Ferdinando III and Leopoldo II. Interestingly, the living piece of history is actually a bridge connecting the center of Livorno to the rest of the city in the historic 19th-century urban development project and proudly called the “widest bridge in Europe” here.
To the west of the square starts Grande street, Livorno’s biggest shopping street. Browsing through elegant porticoes of the 16th-century street, under which the main shops of Livorno nestle, you will be able to admire the splendid façade of Livorno Cathedral, made by Inigo Jones, the father of English Renaissance architecture.
Finally, admire the photogenic Monument of the Four Moors, overlooking the beautiful cruise dock at the end of the street. Ironically, the four writhing bronze figures depicting the Moorish pirates with extreme anatomical perfection totally steal the show from the majestic white marble statue representing Grand Duke Ferdinand and also started the legend that whoever can see the four noses at the same time will be lucky. Don’t miss out on a marked spot on the pavement where you can exactly capture the angel!
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