Leghorn

Leghorn or Livorno, city in central Italy, capital of the province of Livorno, in Tuscany Region on the Ligurian Sea. Leghorn is a large seaport and commercial centre. Shipbuilding is the leading industry, followed by metalworking (iron, steel, copper, and aluminium), petroleum refining, and the manufacture of electric motors, glass, and chemicals.

Leghorn is largely a modern city. The Italian naval academy, naval shipyards, and a naval arsenal are located here. Places of interest include the cathedral (late 16th century, restored after being severely damaged during World War II) and the Fortezza Vecchia (Italian “Old Fort”), erected in 1521-1534 as part of a defence system for the harbour.

In 1421 Leghorn, then a fishing village with a small fortified port, was subjugated by Florence. During the 16th century its harbour facilities were enlarged, and a canal was constructed (1573) connecting Leghorn with the nearby port of Pisa. Under the Medici Ferdinand I, grand duke of Tuscany, Leghorn was opened to settlement by traders of all nations. By the end of his rule it had surpassed Pisa in importance as a port. In 1691 Leghorn was declared a free port, a status it retained until 1868. During World War II heavy bombardment levelled the city centre, destroying many landmarks and damaging the area around the port. Population (1990 estimate) 171,265.