Livorno (pop. 167,512) is a major Italian seaport. It is sometimes called Leghorn. Livorno lies on the shore of the Ligurian Sea, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) southwest of Florence. It is an important industrial city, with steelworks, glass factories, and automobile plants. Livorno hats, made from wheat straw, and coral ornaments are exported. The city’s other exports include marble, olive oil, boric acid, silk, and wine. Livorno has many canals.
The most interesting of Livorno’s public buildings include the cathedral, a synagogue, the Academy of Sciences, and the naval academy. The Tower of the Sculptured Lion, a leading landmark, is a relic of the days when the city was a free port.
Livorno was a little fishing village when the Florentines seized it in 1421. It has grown steadily in importance and prosperity. The sulfur springs and sea bathing attract many visitors.
