Viareggio is a town located on the Tuscan coast. It is a destination with a thousand artistic resources ranging from the most ancient art to be admired on a succession of beautiful buildings up to the more contemporary art linked to the Carnival tradition that manifests itself, as well as during the typical parade, also in the inevitable museums dedicated to this party. If all this fascinates you, find out more about what to see and what to do in Viareggio!
The Lungomare di Viareggio 😎, also known as Passeggiata Margherita, is best known for hosting the famous Carnival of Viareggio. However, it is called a promenade not only because it runs along the beach as is customary on any Lungomare, but also because on the other side of the road is a true artistic street with a succession of historic buildings in the Art Nouveau style. Along the walk, you will observe domes, balconies, and artistic facades that will leave you speechless and you will meet important structures such as the Gran Caffè Margherita, the Clock Tower, the Palazzo delle Muse, and the Politeama Theater.
Villa Argentina 🏯 is a stately home in Viareggio’s historic center, one of the city’s many historic buildings but one of the most elegant. Villa Argentina was also designed in the 19th century in the Art Nouveau style, and its ceramic decorations, soft colors, and other elements characteristic of the style are instantly noticeable. Outside, a vast garden stands out, while inside, halls are embellished with sculptures, columns, carvings, ceramics, and mosaics. The villa hosts art shows and other activities from time to time, so if you’re in Viareggio, ask about it.
Villa Paolina 🏯 is a historic building in Viareggio that belonged to Napoleon’s niece, Paolina Bonaparte, and was designed in the 19th century. The villa was restored before being opened to the public as the home of the Civic Museums, specifically the archaeological museum and the museum of musical instruments, as well as the contemporary art gallery.
San Paolino Church ⛪ is a minor basilica in the historic center of the city. It was constructed around 1896 and enlarged a few years later, but the bell tower was added later in 1921 and was immediately demolished during WWII, even though no time was lost in rebuilding it. The Church’s interior features three naves, a massive organ, and a triumphal arch, but it’s the mosaic of San Paolino and the angels on a gold background that stands out.
The Matilde Tower 🗼, which dates from the 16th century, is Viareggio’s oldest structure. Even though the name “Matilda” was incorrectly assigned when it was assumed that its design was in some way related to Matilda di Canossa, the tower is an example of military architecture. This structure, on the other hand, served as a major supervisory structure and was later used as a jail, but it is still open to the public to enjoy a stunning view of the coast and is used on a regular basis to host art exhibits and new book launches.
The Cittadella del Carnevale 🎭 is a Viareggio square where the great event that has made the town popular begins. The square is dedicated to masks in Italy: inside are concentrated the laboratories in which the builders work and where the gigantic wagons are kept, in addition, two museums have been opened, of which you will read specifically later.
In addition to the Carnival, we would like to remind you that Viareggio is a well-known seaside resort 🏖: there will be a long stretch of golden sand along which various bathing establishments will alternate with free beach areas. Any type of tourist service, such as umbrellas, showers, change rooms, restaurants, sports rentals, and beach volleyball fields, can be found on Viareggio’s beaches.
Useful, Hope you find my last article too ❤️