Culture of Livorno. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Livorno lost many of its historical monuments during the years of the Second World War. Only a few of them have managed to survive, so locals had to rebuild many sumptuous buildings from the ruins. The old fortress Fortezza Vecchia has been the city's main symbol for almost a thousand years. The first defensive structure was erected on its site in the 11th century. In subsequent 500 years, the fortress has been repeatedly rebuilt and expanded in scale.

It has participated in many serious battles and continued to be impregnable. Fortezza Vecchia has retained its original historical appearance by the beginning of the 20th century. During the war, the castle was almost completely destroyed. Its restoration began with the advent of peace and is still ongoing. The fortress is being rebuilt in accordance with historical traditions, which makes it look very impressive. The ancient castle is the venue for many bright holidays and festivals. In recent years, it has been used as a cultural center.

Many other historic buildings are presently occupied by interesting museums and galleries. A luxurious 19th-century villa houses the Museo civico Giovanni Fattori. This villa is one of the few that have managed to survive during the war years. Chic frescoes and other unique design elements have been preserved as well. The museum keeps a collection of paintings by famous Tuscan artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. Many fragments of the old villa's decoration are valuable museum exhibits themselves. The museum is surrounded by a magnificent garden, which is a true oasis of tranquility amidst the busy city streets. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Livorno's most valuable religious monument is the Cathedral of Livorno (Duomo di Livorno) built in the early 17th century. After the war, it was almost completely destroyed and lay in ruins. It took almost ten years to restore the city's main cathedral. It was possible to recreate not only old architectural elements but also unique artistic decorations. Visitors can see frescoes on the ceiling and walls of the cathedral. The shrine was furnished with massive wooden furniture in the style of past years. Now it contains valuable religious artifacts.

No less interesting religious monument is the church Chiesa della Congregazione Olandese Alemanna, which is considered a true example of the neo-Gothic style. The construction of the church was completed in 1864. Today, the architectural monument is being prepared for a major reconstruction. The church has never been rebuilt over its long history so it has become very dilapidated. Now, for safety reasons, it's not allowed to get inside, so visitors to the city can only admire its external appearance.

Another historical monument that has managed to survive in wartime is Chiesa Di Sant'Andrea. It was erected in the middle of the 19th century in the neo-Gothic style typical of that time. The church was erected on the initiative of the local Scottish community, which lived in Livorno at that time. The chief architect of the project was the famous Scottish specialist Rumball. The church turned out to be completely different from other religious monuments that have been built in the city by that time. Now guests of the city recognize it by the high clock tower, which is visible from many streets.

Chiesa di San Giorgio consecrated in 1844 looks very much like an ancient temple. Its entrance is decorated with tall slender columns, this church is considered a vivid neoclassical monument. Since its founding, the main parishioners of the church were Romanian immigrants who founded a rather large community in the city in the mid-19th century. The old church is still functional and often holds divine services. During major religious holidays, beautiful celebrations are organized near the church.

One of the oldest buildings in town is Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata, which is also known under the unofficial name of “Greek Church”. It was built in the early 17th century for Greek sailors who arrived in Livorno to serve. Despite the fact that many years have passed since this important historical event, the nickname of the religious monument remains relevant. The church building is distinguished by skillful facade decoration with preserved old sculptures and stucco elements. The interior of the church is very restrained and elegant. reminding parishioners of the beautiful traditions of past years. The picturesque historic district of La Venezia has also been preserved in Livorno. Besides valuable architectural monuments located here, it is famous for its beautiful canals. The area would be ideal for walks.