La Spezia
La Spezia is a city and municipality at the head of the Gulf of La Spezia in the eastern part of the Liguria region of Italy, and the capital of the Province of La Spezia. With a population of around 92,711, it is the second-largest municipality in Liguria and one of the largest cities in Italy.
At a glance
- Type
- City and provincial capital
- Period
- Historic port city
- Style
- Ligurian coastal city
- Location
- Gulf of La Spezia, eastern Liguria, Italy
Overview
La Spezia sits at the head of the Gulf of La Spezia, in the eastern part of Liguria. It is the capital of the Province of La Spezia and the second-largest municipality in the region. With a population of about 92,711, it ranks among the larger Italian cities.
History
La Spezia developed around its deep natural gulf on the Ligurian coast. Its sheltered waters have long made the city an important maritime centre. Over time it grew into the administrative seat of its surrounding province in eastern Liguria.
What you see
The city stretches along the head of its gulf, with the harbour and waterfront central to its character. La Spezia serves as the gateway to the eastern Ligurian coast. Its urban core reflects its standing as a provincial capital and busy port.
Cultural significance
As the capital of its province and the second-largest municipality in Liguria, La Spezia is a key urban centre of the region. Its position on the Gulf of La Spezia anchors the eastern stretch of the Ligurian coast.
Practical information
La Spezia is a city and municipality in eastern Liguria. For opening times of museums, sites, and visitor services, check the official municipal and tourism websites before visiting.
Getting there
La Spezia is well connected by Italy’s rail network and by road, sitting on routes along the Ligurian coast. The city is a common base for reaching the surrounding eastern Liguria region and the Gulf of La Spezia.