Piazza Alberica Travel Guide

Piazza Alberica, known locally as Piazza Albèrica, stands as the most important historical square in Carrara. Once an uninhabited area used as a cattle market called Platea Porcorum, its transformation began in 1557 when Prince Alberico I Cybo-Malaspina initiated the expansion of the city walls, shifting Carrara's center from the Duomo area to this new square.The square quickly became a hub for the aristocracy and the marble trade, shaping Carrara's economic and political landscape. Opulent palaces like Palazzo Del Medico, distinguished by its red facade, and Palazzo Diana (Palazzo delle Logge) were constructed around the square. The birthplace of sculptor Pietro Tacca, known for the bronze piglet in Florence, is also located here.At the heart of Piazza Alberica is the monument to Maria Beatrice d'Este, the Duchess of Massa and Princess of Carrara, sculpted by Pietro Fontana in 1826. The statue depicts her as Juno, the goddess of fertility, and the fountain features a basin and sphinxes inspired by the Louvre's Egyptian collection. During World War II, an air raid shelter was built beneath the square. Today, Piazza Alberica remains a focal point, surrounded by cafes and restaurants where visitors can experience the city's atmosphere.