La cattedrale di San Francesco.
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Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno

4.3
·962 reviews·Livorno, Italy

A resilient landmark rebuilt after WWII, housing significant 17th-century art and a Fra Angelico masterpiece.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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La cattedrale di San Francesco.

Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A resilient landmark rebuilt after WWII, housing significant 17th-century art and a Fra Angelico masterpiece.

4.3
(962 reviews)

"Well worth a visit here, incredibly well kept and lots to see."

Vertical photo
TIP

🏛️ Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting this sacred site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:

🖼️ Admire the Art

Don't miss the preserved 17th-century paintings and the significant Fra Angelico artwork. :art:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fra Angelico's Masterpiece

Fra Angelico's Masterpiece

Eucharist Chapel

A rare 15th-century painting of Christ with the Crown of Thorns by the renowned Fra Angelico.

Post-War Reconstruction

Post-War Reconstruction

Entire Cathedral

Witness a remarkable example of architectural restoration, rebuilt in its original 1606 form after WWII destruction.

Central Livorno Location

Central Livorno Location

Via Grande

Easily accessible in the heart of Livorno, making it a convenient stop on your city exploration.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno was rebuilt after WWII, so it's a testament to resilience. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate its historical significance and preserved artworks without the crowds.

Understanding its History

This cathedral, originally from 1606, was tragically destroyed in 1943. Its reconstruction in the original form post-war makes it a powerful symbol. Look for the 15th-century Fra Angelico painting.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for appreciating art
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#23 of Italian Forgotten Classics: Cacciucco (Toscana – Livorno) In Livorno, when fishermen didn’t return from the sea, their wives gathered whatever seafood they could — and made Cacciucco. Ingredients (Serves 6): • 500 g octopus (polpo) or moscardini
• 500 g mixed cephalopods (squid, seppie, totani)
• 300–500 g mixed fish for broth and meat — such as:
 – Scorfano (scorpionfish)
 – Gallinella (re...
@massicooksitalian
104.1K likes • 959.8K views

🏛️ Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting this sacred site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:

🖼️ Admire the Art

Don't miss the preserved 17th-century paintings and the significant Fra Angelico artwork. :art:

Livorno, Cattedrale di San Francesco, sede della nuova corale. Vergine Maria Santissima ti prego dammi la forza, perché se le cose fanno avanti così prima o poi scoppio e spacco tutto...
scarity_bat
4 likes • 106 views
Domenica 10 Agosto torna il Concerto di San Lorenzo🎵 Dalle 19:30 nel chiostro della cattedrale l’Orchestra da Camera di Perugia ci delizierà con un concerto gratuito (diffuso anche dal palco in piazza) sulle note di Georg Friedrich Händel A seguire dalle 22 in piazza l’Orchestra Multietnica di Arezzo, i Benvegnù e @nerimarcoreofficial per un omaggio al Maestro Paolo Benvegnù Vi aspettiamo❤️ #pe...
vittoria_ferdinandi
1.3K likes • 58.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Area

Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Fortezza Nuova and Quartiere Venezia. :compass:

📸 Photography Etiquette

Check for any restrictions on photography inside the cathedral before taking pictures. :camerawithflash:

Livorno Sbarcati dalla nave c'è uno shuttle bus gratuito che porta all'uscita del porto (Varco fortezza). Attrazioni: ✓ Fortezza Nuova; ✓ Quartiere Venezia; ✓ Via Grande; ✓ Cattedrale di San Francesco; ✓ Mercato Centrale; ✓ Fosso Reale; ✓ Quattro Mori; ✓ Fortezza vecchia; Percorso condiviso Da Livorno, 57123 LI a Varco Fortezza, 57123 Livorno LI passando per Via Guido Donegani. 1 h 23 min (6,0...
blogger_travel_nails_
0 likes • 490 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🏛️ Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting this sacred site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:

🖼️ Admire the Art

Don't miss the preserved 17th-century paintings and the significant Fra Angelico artwork. :art:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Area

Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Fortezza Nuova and Quartiere Venezia. :compass:

📸 Photography Etiquette

Check for any restrictions on photography inside the cathedral before taking pictures. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(962 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno to be a well-kept and historically significant church, particularly appreciating the preserved 17th-century paintings and the notable Fra Angelico artwork. Its central location makes it an easily accessible point of interest in Livorno.

"Wow! Well worth a visit here.
Incredibly well kept and lots to see"

Alan J Roberts

"Very historical church from World War Era. Maintain properly and preserved many important paintings in the 17th century."

Ezra Pedregosa

"Passed by this beautiful in the central district of Livorno, Italy."

Marc Japitana

What People Like

Well-kept historical church
Preserved paintings
Fra Angelico artwork

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno is centrally located in Livorno, often accessible via shuttle bus from the port if arriving by ship.Instagram It's situated near Via Grande, a main thoroughfare, making it easy to reach on foot from many parts of the city center. Public transport options are also available.

Parking in the central district of Livorno can be challenging. It's advisable to use public transport or walk if possible. If driving, look for paid parking garages in the vicinity of Via Grande. Instagram

While it's a bit of a walk, it's feasible. A free shuttle bus from the port takes you to Varco Fortezza, from where you can navigate to the cathedral. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, entry to cathedrals is free, though donations are often appreciated. It's always a good idea to check for any specific ticketing requirements or special exhibition fees. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially on Sundays and holidays. It's recommended to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

Yes, the Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno is an active place of worship. Mass schedules are typically posted at the entrance or can be found online. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The most notable artwork is a 15th-century painting of Christ with the Crown of Thorns by Fra Angelico, located in the Eucharist Chapel. Reddit

While many historical buildings have accessibility challenges, efforts are often made to accommodate visitors. It's best to inquire directly with the cathedral administration for specific details on ramps or elevators. Reddit

Information on guided tours might be limited. However, the historical significance and preserved artworks offer a rich experience even without a formal tour. Reddit

The cathedral was originally built in 1606 and rebuilt in its original form after WWII. Its style reflects the period of its reconstruction, aiming to preserve its historical appearance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. While some areas might be restricted, especially during services, general photography for personal use is often permitted. Always look for signage or ask a staff member. Instagram

The interior, with its preserved paintings and architectural details, offers many photographic opportunities. The exterior, especially its presence on Via Grande, also makes for a good shot. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno is a place of worship and historical significance, it can still be an engaging visit for families. The story of its destruction and rebuilding can be a powerful lesson in history and resilience. Focus on the Fra Angelico painting as a visual point of interest, perhaps turning it into a 'spot the artwork' game. Reddit

Keep the visit relatively brief to maintain children's attention. Ensure they understand the importance of quiet behavior inside a church. Combining the visit with nearby, more interactive attractions like Fortezza Nuova or exploring the Quartiere Venezia can create a more balanced itinerary for younger visitors. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno offers a compelling narrative of destruction and rebirth. Its original construction in 1606 and its complete devastation in 1943 followed by meticulous reconstruction provide a unique historical perspective. The preserved 17th-century paintings and the significant Fra Angelico artwork add layers of artistic and religious history to explore. Reddit

Delve into the details of its post-war restoration and the efforts made to maintain its original form. Understanding the context of Livorno during WWII and its subsequent recovery will deepen your appreciation for this resilient landmark. The cathedral is a tangible link to the city's past and its ability to overcome adversity. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Symbol of Resilience: Reconstruction After War

The Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, having been completely destroyed by Allied bombers in 1943 during World War II. Its subsequent reconstruction in the original form after the war is a testament to the city's determination to preserve its heritage. This act of rebuilding not only restored a place of worship but also a significant historical landmark for Livorno. Visitors can appreciate the dedication involved in bringing the 1606 structure back to life, making it a poignant site to explore. Reddit

Walking through the cathedral today, one can feel the weight of its history. The careful restoration ensures that the architectural integrity and aesthetic of the original building are maintained. This commitment to historical accuracy allows visitors to experience the cathedral much as it was intended to be, offering a glimpse into Livorno's past. The post-war rebuilding is a crucial part of its narrative, adding a layer of profound meaning to its presence in the city. Reddit

For those interested in architectural history and the impact of conflict on cultural sites, the Cattedrale di San Francesco provides a compelling case study. It’s a place where history is not just observed but felt, reminding us of the enduring spirit of communities in the face of adversity. The restored beauty invites contemplation and appreciation for the efforts made to preserve such important cultural assets. Reddit

Artistic Treasures Within

Beyond its historical significance, the Cattedrale di San Francesco Livorno houses important artistic treasures. The most celebrated is a 15th-century painting of Christ with the Crown of Thorns by Fra Angelico, a masterpiece by the renowned Florentine painter. This significant artwork is housed in the Eucharist Chapel, offering visitors a chance to admire a piece of Renaissance art within a sacred setting. Reddit

In addition to the Fra Angelico, the cathedral is noted for preserving many important paintings from the 17th century. These works contribute to the rich artistic tapestry of the interior, showcasing the devotional art of the period. The careful maintenance and preservation of these pieces ensure their longevity and allow them to continue inspiring visitors. Reddit

When visiting, take time to seek out these artistic highlights. The combination of the cathedral's historical narrative and its valuable artworks creates a deeply enriching experience for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The preserved paintings are a key reason many find the visit worthwhile. Reddit

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