Piazza Alberica, Lunigiana Travel Guide

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Discover Piazza Alberica, Carrara's historic heart: marble palaces, monuments, and vibrant atmosphere in the city's most important square.

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Piazza Alberica

Piazza Alberica is Carrara's largest and most historically significant square, evolving from a cattle market to the city's vibrant center. Named after Prince Alberico I Cybo-Malaspina, it showcases stunning architecture and a monument to Maria Beatrice d'Este.

A brief summary to Piazza Alberica

Piazza Alberica, 3, Carrara, Province of Massa and Carrara, 54033, IT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Piazza Alberica.

Visit on weekdays for a less crowded experience.
Try a traditional Italian coffee at one of the piazza's cafes.
Explore nearby attractions like Palazzo delle Logge and Palazzo Del Medico.

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Explore Piazza Alberica on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Piazza Alberica, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Piazza Alberica is located in the heart of Carrara's historic center, making it easily accessible on foot from most points within the city. From the Carrara Cathedral, walk southwest along Via Santa Maria, then turn left onto Via Loris Giorgi, which leads directly into Piazza Alberica. The walk is approximately 3 minutes. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

Carrara's public transport network, primarily operated by CTT Nord Massa Carrara, provides bus services to Piazza Alberica. From Carrara-Avenza train station, take bus line L70 towards Carrara. Alight at Piazza Matteotti, a short walk from Piazza Alberica. The bus fare is approximately €2. Bus services run hourly.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Carrara. A taxi from Carrara-Avenza train station to Piazza Alberica typically costs between €9 and €11 and takes approximately 5 minutes. Taxi stands are located near the train station and in the city center. Ride-sharing services may also be available.

Discover more about Piazza Alberica

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.