Old Fortress of Livorno

The old fortress of Livorno is located in the port of Medici. Livorno is a beautiful port city located in Italian Tuscany on the Ligurian coast. And one of its most recognizable sights is the Old Fortress (the Italian name is Fortezza Vecchia). Locals say that it is worth a visit to any tourist who finds himself in these places. Access to the territory of the attraction is free of charge.

History of the fortress

One of the parts of the construction of the Old Livorno Fortress, the round tower of Countess Matilda of Tuscany, has existed since the 11th century. However, it was the fortress (that is, a defensive, fortification) that arose on this site in 1377. At the beginning of the XV century, when Livorno was captured by the Genoese, three well-armed forts were built here. And in the 16th century, the city was under the rule of the famous Medici family. During this period, the fortress was also being rebuilt.

It is known that from 1521 to 1534, the Florentine architect Antonio da Sangallo was engaged in its alteration. On top of that, at some point, Duke Cosimo I de' Medici ordered his palace to be built inside the Old Fortress. And later, military barracks and even a prison were set up here.

During the Second World War, the Old Livorno Fortress was destroyed by bombing. However, on the initiative of volunteers, this legendary building began to be rebuilt from the rubble. The restoration process continues to this day (and the work is still far from complete).

Location and appearance

The old fortress of Livorno is located in the old dock of the port of Livorno, not far from Marmi Square. The fortress is shaped like an asymmetrical polygon. You can enter it directly from the city (although in the old days it was completely surrounded by the sea and had to be reached by ferry).

Important elements of the Old Fortress of Livorno are three bastions facing in different directions - Capitana, Canavilla and Ampoletta. The last two are decorated with metal lion faces. However, we must admit that these are only copies of the original bronze sculptures.

What can be seen inside

The building doesn't have a single roof, but its majestic vaults are truly impressive. In addition, the church of San Francesco is located on the territory of the fortress. It is quite small in size, and is interesting, for example, because the altar in it is arranged directly against the background of red brickwork.

Also, if desired, tourists can climb the spiral staircase to the Matilda Tower to enjoy the views of the city from there and fully experience the port romance.

Finally, it should be noted that music concerts and other similar events are sometimes held in the Old Fortress of Livorno.