I recently had the privilege to meet up with one of my favorite people, my middle school math teacher, and one of my mom’s best friends in Livorno, Italy. We had a blast and I absolutely fell in love with Italy and her family!
Livorno is rich in history, and is home to multiple churches that may be unassuming on the outside, but are full of grandeur on the inside. I had the treat of an impromptu tour with Mrs. Azmoudeh’s brother, Karim, who showed us the highlights of the incredible churches in Livorno.
Additionally, Livorno beaches are brilliant, full of natural beauty. The coast is rocky, but has lovely spots of flat sandstone great for laying out next to the clear teal water. The best part, you can literally pull off of the highway in Livorno and climb down to the beach. It’s awesome.
About a 20 minute drive from Livorno is the small town of Pisa, home of the famous leaning tower. Honestly, I had thought the leaning tower of Pisa was somewhat overrated, and just another building. Not so! The tower was amazing. It’s incredible how it really is leaning, yet i structurally sound. Not to mention, the detailed architectural work is eye-catching, to say the least. Plus, the totally touristy photos where you pretend to hold up the tower? That’s the best part of the visit! Definitely a great time to embrace your tourist status and have some fun looking silly laying in the grass or holding your arms in the air.
I was unaware that immediately behind the tower of Pisa is the Cathedral and Baptismal Chapel. You can tour and visit both of these for only 5 euros; ladies, be sure to bring a shawl or sweater to cover your shoulders!
The Baptismal Chapel is behind the Cathedral. The chapel is spacious, simply decorated, and is a totally awesome place to be baptized. Definitely a whole new experience from the small font of holy water in a diocesan church! The best part about the chapel, however, is the sound demonstration. The structure of the chapel was built so that sound reverberates in an incredibly wonderful, beautiful way. Every half hour or so, a man comes in, stands at the foot of the baptismal font, and sings. The resounding qualities of the building make his voice echo melodically, and it sounds like an entire choir is singing. It’s absolutely gorgeous to hear.
The cathedral is ornate on the outside, but the exterior has nothing on the gilded, marbled, and bronzed interior. All of it was ornately decorated, but my favorite part was the various ceilings throughout different parts of the cathedral. Don’t forget to look up!
Pisa and Livorno are both absolutely worth a visit! I had an amazing time with Mrs. Azmoudeh and her family. I adore the Magidis, and I adore these two Italian cities. Gratzie mil and ciao cia0!
xox,
Lauren
