Piazza del Luogo Pio

Piazza del Luogo Pio is a canal-side square in Livorno's Venezia Nuova district. Its Baroque church, former orphanage and contemporary museum entrance bring together distinct layers of the neighbourhood's history.

Why it matters

The square grew around the Chiesa del Luogo Pio, built between 1713 and 1715 as the place of worship for a charitable foundation that cared for orphaned girls. The church and square preserve the memory of that institution within the merchant quarter.

What to notice

The church's restrained gabled façade and small bell gable contrast with its richly decorated Baroque interior. Now deconsecrated, the building forms part of the Museo della Città and displays Pino Pascali's Grande Rettile against the historic stucco. A contemporary three-dimensional arch marks the museum entrance; nearby stands the Baroque church of San Ferdinando.

Context and history

Grand-ducal architect Giovanni del Fantasia designed the church for the Luogo Pio, and work took place from 1713 to 1715. The orphanage was destroyed in the post-war period. The church survived, was deconsecrated and later became an exhibition space for the city's contemporary art collection. The square was redeveloped as part of the museum's setting along the Viale Caprera canal.