La Spezia, Liguria
La Spezia is located in the gulf of the same name, also called Il Golfo dei Poeti (The Gulf of Poets). The town was a popular inspirational location for poets including Byron, Dante and Shelley. It is one of the classiest and cleanest ports in Italy, according to some, and it is noted for its palm-lined streets and parks filled with citrus trees.
History
La Spezia was heavily attacked during World War II because of its naval base
and artillery. It has successfully recovered from the damage, though, and evolved
into a major commercial port, a departure point for Corsica and a stop on the
way to Cinque Terre.
Sights
The collection at the Museo Navale features diving suits from World War II,
carved prows of 19th century ships, huge iron anchors and small replicas of
Egyptian, Roman and European boats. La Spezia's naval base is next to the museum,
but it is only open to the public on March 19, the feast of San Giuseppe. Museo
Amadeo Lia is in the ancient church and convent of the Friars of St. Francis
from Paola. Its beautiful paintings include the works of Raphael. The Castello
di San Giorgio was built in the 14th century when Genoa ruled the town. It now
has an archeological museum and offers extensive views of the port. Scuba diving
in the port is also a popular attraction (call The Federazione Italiana Pesca
Sportiva at 0187 51 12 22 for more information).
Tips
La Spezia's main tourist office is located at the port at Viale G Mazzini 47.
It is open daily from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3 to 6 pm. Call 0187 77 09 00 for
more information.
Transportation
La Spezia is located on the Genoa-Pisa train line or take the A12.
Links
http://www.comune.sp.it
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