Terrazza Mascagni: Livorno's Chessboard by the Sea

The Terrazza Mascagni, located along the Viale Italia in Livorno, is more than just a terrace; it's a symbol of the city and a place filled with history and charm. Constructed in the 1920s, it was initially named Terrazza Ciano. The terrace was designed by engineer Enrico Salvais, with collaboration from Luigi Pastore. In the late 1990s, the Terrazza Mascagni underwent a complete restoration, which included the reconstruction of the music gazebo. The gazebo, originally built in the 1930s by Ghino Venturi, had been destroyed during World War II. The terrace is famous for its 8,700 square meter checkered pavement, made up of over 34,000 black and white tiles. A balustrade consisting of 4,000 columns separates the terrace from the sea. Before the Terrazza Mascagni was built, the Forte dei Cavalleggeri, a defensive structure, stood in its place. The fortress was dismantled in the 19th century, paving the way for the creation of this grand square overlooking the sea. Today, the Terrazza Mascagni offers panoramic views of the Tuscan Archipelago and the Meloria shoals. It’s a place where people come to stroll, relax, and soak in the beauty of the Tyrrhenian Sea.