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Old Fortress of Livorno: History and Breathtaking Views

28/04/2026 - By - Art, Culture, Day trips

The Old Fortress is Livorno’s oldest monument, a Medici castle overlooking the port. Built on a pre-existing Pisan fort, it was expanded by the Medici between 1521 and 1534. Today it is free to visit: climb the Torre della Vittoria for a 360° panorama of the sea and city. Inside, the Fortress Museum tells the story of the port. The parade ground hosts events and exhibitions. Here’s what not to miss:

• The three towers: Ampolletta, Canaviglia, and Pisa, each with a unique story.
• The condemned prisoners’ canal: a secret passage to the sea, used for escapes.
• The Chapel of Santa Maria degli Angeli: a small Renaissance church inside.
• The benches on the bastion: perfect for a picnic with a view of the ships.

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Copertina itinerario Old Fortress of Livorno: History and Breathtaking Views
Imposing Medici fortress by the sea, symbol of Livorno with panoramic towers and historical tales. Stroll along ramparts, cannons, and unique vistas. Free admission, guided tours recommended.

Good to know


  • Introduction
  • Historical notes

    • Introduction

    Arriving at the Fortezza Vecchia is like taking a dive into Livorno’s past. Walking along the waterfront, you see it rise up imposingly, with its dark bricks and sheer walls overlooking the sea. The atmosphere immediately captures you, a mix of history and salty breeze. Entry is free, and that alone puts you in a good mood. I climb up onto the bastions and the view of the port is stunning: ships, boats, the sea stretching to the horizon. You can almost hear the voices of the Medici soldiers. A place that gets under your skin, without many words.
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    Historical notes

    The Fortezza Vecchia is the symbol of Livorno, built on the remains of a Pisan tower. The Medici enlarged it in the 16th century, under Cosimo I, to defend the port. Among its key figures were Grand Duke Ferdinando I and the architect Antonio da Sangallo. Maria de’ Medici also stayed here before becoming Queen of France. Today, it is a monument that blends power and beauty.

    • 1077: first Pisan tower
    • 1521: start of Medici enlargement
    • 1534: visit of Charles V
    • 1860: passed to the Kingdom of Italy
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    💡 Did You Know…?

    According to legend, the fortress is connected by a secret tunnel to the New Fortress, passing under the Fosso Reale. Some say that at night you can hear echoes of chains: they would be the ghosts of prisoners from the Medici era. In the 1700s, the condemned Giuseppe Vadi escaped by lowering himself from the bastion with a rope woven from rags. Even today, locals call the passage ‘Vadi’s Slide’.