Piazza Grande: Livorno's Historic Heart

Piazza Grande, located in the center of Livorno, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and resilience. Originally constructed in 1594 as Piazza d'Arme, the square was part of the Medicean city plan designed by Bernardo Buontalenti. The square's design, with its porticoes and central buildings, is believed to have inspired Inigo Jones, the architect of London's Covent Garden. Before the Second World War, Piazza Grande was much larger, stretching to the Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall). However, the bombings significantly damaged the area, leading to a post-war reconstruction that divided the square with the construction of the Palazzo Grande. Today, the square is bisected by the Via Grande, a major traffic artery, but remains a central point for city life and tourism. The most prominent building on Piazza Grande is the Livorno Cathedral, dedicated to San Francesco, built between 1594 and 1606. The cathedral houses several works of art that survived the war. Opposite the cathedral stands the Palazzo Grande, a controversial building erected after the war. It now serves as a multi-purpose space with conference facilities, offices, and galleries. Despite the changes, Piazza Grande continues to be a vibrant center, surrounded by shops, cafes and historical landmarks.