Livorno Shore Excursions

The bustling port city of Livorno is not only well known for being designed as an "Ideal town" by the Medicis, but has an amazing Jewish heritage - and on our Livorno Jewish Shore Excursion we will explain why in the 19th century most of the books in the Mediterranean area were printed in Livorno.

In the 16^th century, Jewish immigrants flooded into Livorno, most of whom were expelled from Spain and Portugal following the Alhambra decree. The community flourished. Livorno was tolerant, expressly offering religious freedom in the city, and Jews played a prominent role in the arts and mercantile developments that propelled Livorno into one of the most important Renaissance ports. There were no ghettos in Livorno.

Upon incorporation into the Kingdom of Italy, Livorno lost its special status as a free port and subsequently lost most of its international influence.  During WW2, many Jews fled and the city was bombed extensively. The famed Synagogue of Livorno was among the countless historic buildings destroyed. After the war, the community rebuilt and today there are approximately 700 members of the Jewish community.

See the Synagogue of Livorno, famous for its stunning and unique design. Tour the Jewish Museum that chronicles the unique history of the Jews of Livorno. Visit the Jewish Cemeteries that commemorate the loss of Jewish life in WW1 and WW2. And admire the Monumento dei Quattro Morri, celebrating the ruler of Livorno who invited persecuted Jews to the city. All of this and more are waiting for you, discover Jewish Livorno with Milk & Honey Tours!