La Spezia
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 19 November 2023
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The city of La Spezia is the capital city of the Province of La Spezia with a population of 93,229 inhabitants.
Located on the shores of the Ligurian Sea, it covers a total area of 51 km² and lies 101 km south east of Genoa, the capital of Liguria. Some of the main sights of La Spezia include the Museo Amedeo Lia and the harbour with its large promenade. La Spezia is blessed with one of the most important ports in Italy, both in terms of commerce and the military. |
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Napoleon Bonaparte built a substantial naval complex here during the 19th century but a negative consequence of that was that it marked the city out as a target for Allied bombing raids during World War Two. The damage caused by those bombing raids led to much of the city having to be rebuilt so while in some areas it trails behind other Ligurian cities in terms of old world charm, it does carry some interesting modern features. A stroll along Piazza Verdi for example will reward you with an open-air display of modern art by Daniel Buren while even more memorable is the eye-catching Cattedrale di Cristo Re, quite unlike any other cathedral in Italy or Christendom in general.
The cathedral is situated on Piazza Europa, just behind the main promenade of Viale Europa. Other busy areas of this sprawling city are Via Chiodo which flanks the public gardens and the market square of Piazza Cavour in the heart of the centro storico (old town).
The cathedral is situated on Piazza Europa, just behind the main promenade of Viale Europa. Other busy areas of this sprawling city are Via Chiodo which flanks the public gardens and the market square of Piazza Cavour in the heart of the centro storico (old town).
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La Spezia is a port town located on the Ligurian coast of Italy. It serves as the capital of the La Spezia province and is renowned for its beautiful coastline, maritime heritage, and access to the stunning Cinque Terre region.
History
La Spezia's history can be traced back to Roman times when it was an important commercial center due to its strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea. Over the centuries, it experienced the influence of various powers, including the Byzantines, Lombards, and Genoese Republic. In the 19th century, La Spezia became a significant naval base under the Kingdom of Sardinia and later played a crucial role in the unification of Italy.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Museo Tecnico Navale (Naval Technical Museum): This museum showcases the city's rich maritime history and the development of its naval fleet. It displays a wide range of naval artifacts, models, and historical documents.
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta: Located in the heart of La Spezia, this beautiful church features an impressive marble facade and elegant interiors. It's a place of historical and architectural significance.
- Waterfront Promenade: La Spezia boasts a picturesque waterfront promenade, perfect for leisurely walks, enjoying views of the harbor, and taking in the sea breeze.
- Amedeo Lia Museum: This art museum houses an impressive collection of Italian and European art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
- Piazza Garibaldi: This central square is a lively gathering place where visitors can enjoy outdoor cafes, shops, and the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
- San Giorgio Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking La Spezia, this historic castle offers panoramic views of the city and the Gulf of Poets.
- Gulf of Poets: La Spezia's Gulf of Poets is a beautiful stretch of coastline that has inspired many artists and poets. Boat tours are available to explore the scenic area and its poetic history.
- Shopping and Dining: The town offers a variety of shopping options, from boutiques to local markets. Visitors can also savor the delectable Ligurian cuisine, including fresh seafood and famous pesto dishes.
Comune di La Spezia
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Province: La Spezia
Region: Liguria Population: 92,441 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022) Size: 51 km² Top sights: Cattedrale di Cristo Re, Museo Amedeo Lia, harbour Close by: Fezzano, Le Grazie, Portovenere, Lerici, Cinque Terre Recommended accommodation: The Poet Hotel |
La Spezia Travel
Aside from its own attractions, La Spezia draws a huge number of visitors due its close proximity to the Cinque Terre. Indeed, such is the scarcity of affordable accommodation in the Cinque Terre, along with the almost insurmountable challenge of driving in the area, that La Spezia becomes a very attractive option.
The best way to visit Le Cinque Terre is by train and from La Spezia's train station it's just a 10 minute journey to the first stop, Riomaggiore. The trains run 3 or 4 times an hour and you can buy a ticket that covers a whole day of hopping from one village to the next. If you really want to you can see all 5 villages on the same day but it's better to spend at least two days there if time allows.
Another way of reaching Le Cinque Terre from La Spezia is by sea. Tours are available from the main harbour with various prices and options including stops at the seaside towns of Portovenere and Rapallo.
The best way to visit Le Cinque Terre is by train and from La Spezia's train station it's just a 10 minute journey to the first stop, Riomaggiore. The trains run 3 or 4 times an hour and you can buy a ticket that covers a whole day of hopping from one village to the next. If you really want to you can see all 5 villages on the same day but it's better to spend at least two days there if time allows.
Another way of reaching Le Cinque Terre from La Spezia is by sea. Tours are available from the main harbour with various prices and options including stops at the seaside towns of Portovenere and Rapallo.
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Public transport: central train station, ferries, local buses
By train: Riomaggiore - 10 min, Chiavari - 40 min, Genoa - 1 hr 20' |
By car: Genoa - 1 hr 22' (102 km), Savona - 1 hr 58' (161 km)
Fly to: Genoa Christopher Columbus Airport - 1 hr 25' (115 km) |
