Mercato Centrale

Livorno


The largest covered market in Italy, this 95m-long neoclassical building miraculously survived Allied WWII bombing. Arresting both gastronomically and architecturally, its central hall with emerald-green painted steelwork is a real feast for the eyes. Italian painter Amedeo Modigliani (1184–1920) once had his studio on the upper floor (now offices).

After wandering the aisles, enjoy lunch, a snack or an aperitivo at the excellent Alle Vettovaglie. Other businesses to investigate include coffee roaster Torrefazione Caffè San Paulo, gluten-free bakery Manalù and pasta shop Pastificio Chiesa. The latter is known for its gold-leaf-filled pasta, which sells internationally for over €200 per piece. Bizarre.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Livorno attractions

1. Fortezza Medicea

29.57 MILES

The 14th-century Fortezza Medicea, later altered by Lorenzo Il Magnifico, is nowadays a prison (admission: one felony), but the 'Nuova Fortezza' within…