The Meloria Southern Lighthouse stands on a small island 10 km from the Livorno coast, within the Meloria Marine Protected Area. A perfect spot for a boat trip, with crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and opportunities to spot gulls and cormorants. Here’s what makes it special:
- Historic lighthouse from 1867, still operational with its distinctive red and white color.
- Boat excursions departing from the Port of Livorno, lasting about 3 hours.
- Snorkeling in the protected waters of the reserve, rich in posidonia and colorful fish.
- Breathtaking sunset views over the Livorno coastline.
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31/01/2026 - 02/06/2026
The Meloria Southern Lighthouse is a historic symbol of Livorno, set within a unique marine reserve. Accessible by sea, it offers spectacular sunsets and migratory bird sightings.
Good to know
A Lighthouse Between Sky and Sea
The Meloria Southern Lighthouse is no ordinary lighthouse. It’s a watchtower rising from the shallow waters of the Meloria, just a few miles from Livorno. When you see it from afar, it seems suspended between the blue of the sea and the azure of the sky. The first time I went there, I thought: ‘How does it manage to stand there, all alone, in the middle of nowhere?’ It’s a strange, almost magical feeling. Around it, the marine reserve teems with life. If you’re lucky, you’ll see cormorants diving or seagulls soaring. And the sunset is truly unforgettable: the sun plunges into the sea, and the lighthouse turns to gold.
Historical Notes
The history of Meloria is ancient and marked by shipwrecks. The Romans already knew it as Mala Hora because of its dangers. The current lighthouse was built in 1961 to replace a 19th-century tower destroyed during the war. But the true legend is the Torre della Meloria, erected by the Republic of Pisa in 1156 (later collapsed). The Battle of Meloria took place here in 1284, when the Genoese defeated the Pisans. A handful of rocks bears witness to that past.
- 1156: construction of the Pisan Tower
- 1284: Battle of Meloria
- 1867: first modern lighthouse
- 1961: current lighthouse
The Marine Reserve: A Submerged Paradise
The waters around Meloria are part of the Secche della Meloria Marine Protected Area. Here, the seabed is a carpet of posidonia and rocks that hosts an incredible biodiversity. On boat tours with a glass bottom – or, if you dive in, with mask and snorkel – you can see sea bream, saddled sea bream, and, with a bit of luck, an octopus. The water is crystal clear, almost Caribbean-like on calm days. A tip: bring a wetsuit because even in summer the water is cool. It’s an unmissable experience for snorkeling lovers.
Birdwatching and Beyond: What You Might Spot
Meloria is a stopover for migratory birds. In spring and autumn, you’ll see skuas, shearwaters, and yellow-legged gulls. I once watched a marsh harrier gliding low over the water—a sight I’ll never forget. If you’re into birdwatching, bring your binoculars: there are so many species. But you don’t have to be an expert—just watching the gulls fly as the sun sets is pure peace. And every now and then, a dolphin pops up. Yes, I’ve heard stories of dolphins swimming alongside boats. It hasn’t happened to me yet, but who knows?
Why Visit
1) A unique experience in Tuscany: there is no other lighthouse surrounded by a protected marine reserve. It’s a place that combines history, nature, and relaxation. 2) Postcard sunsets: the lighthouse at sunset is the perfect subject for stunning photos. Boats often organize sunset tours with an aperitif on board. 3) Quality snorkeling: the Secche della Meloria are among the best snorkeling spots in Tuscany, with rich underwater life. You don’t need to be an expert diver—just a mask is enough.
When to Go
The most enchanting moment is undoubtedly sunset: the warm light colors the lighthouse and the sea, and the atmosphere becomes magical. During the day, the high sun makes the water clearer for snorkeling. Best time? From May to September when the sea is calm and excursions are frequent. But also in spring and autumn, for migratory bird sightings and softer light. I went in June and found it perfect: not too crowded, warm water.
In the Surroundings
In Livorno, don’t miss the Terrazza Mascagni with its sea view – a classic. If you have time, visit the Livorno Aquarium to learn more about the local marine fauna. For a dive into history, the Museo della Città tells the story of Livorno’s relationship with the sea. But the real gem is the Venezia Quarter, with its canals and fish market. A walk there after a boat trip is the perfect ending.
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💡 Did You Know…?
Local legend has it that the lighthouse is haunted by the ghost of a solitary keeper who died in 1901 during a storm. Fishermen swear they still see his lantern wandering among the rocks on moonless nights. Fun fact: in 2021, the lighthouse was listed among the architectural assets of historical and cultural interest in Tuscany.