better known as il fosso reale
"Fossi" medicei of Livorno
Unesco Heritage
Like the canals typical of Venice
The word “Fosso” is equivalent to a moat; in fact the Fosso Reale follows the borders of defense of the city of Livorno. A canal, like those you find in Venice, are for irrigation or navigation. They are like little roads – and Livorno has its fair share of those as well. The building of the moat was a monumental task and its completion was executed by Claudio Cogorano with the help (in a manner of speaking) of 2000 slaves and 5000 farmers. In 2002, these waterways were added to UNESCO’s World Heritage sites.
It is an unmissable experience for those who want to get to know Livorno from an unu- sual and evocative perspective. Comfortably transported by a boat, you travel slowly into the historic heart, navigating through the canals, passing under the bridges, delighted by the ochre and pinks of the ancient noble palaces of this district, very similar to certain glimpses of Venice. The canals curve sinuously between the profiles of the palaces passing under the bridges, through the stairways that give access to the cellars on the water, where the ancient seafaring tradition is still visible on fishermen’s faces, intent on repairing their nets.
Important churches and palaces make a fine show of themselves during the boat trip, such as the octagonal dome of the Church of Santa Caterina, which houses the precious 16th cen- tury Coronation of the Virgin by Giorgio Vasari.
One of the best ways to see this amazing feat is to participate in a boat tour, (also available in English and German) starting from the port and taking you into the city. A fantastic idea for those with children or who would prefer to relax and not do a lot of walking. Click here for the official website for Livorno By Boat.
