Livorno, the lively port city on the Tuscan coast, is often overlooked by travelers heading to more famous destinations like Florence or Pisa. But those who take the time to explore it are rewarded with authentic charm, beautiful seaside views, and surprising cultural treasures one of which is the newly reopened Medici museum in Livorno.
As a licensed local guide based in Livorno, I’m thrilled to share that the Medici museum in Livorno is once again open to the public! It’s a wonderful opportunity for travelers to explore the rich history of this underrated city, especially during this exciting moment leading up to the bicentennial celebration of Giovanni Fattori’s birth in September.
What to see
The Medici museum in Livorno, located on the upper floor of the Granaries at Villa Mimbelli, immerses visitors in the city’s Medici-era origins. This elegant, modern exhibition space presents a captivating selection of historical artifacts that tell the story of Livorno’s transformation under the Medici family.
🖼️ The Museum’s Collection Includes:
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Rare 17th-century paintings, including portraits of Cosimo I and Ferdinando I de’ Medici
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Original maps and urban plans designed by Bernardo Buontalenti, the Medici’s trusted architect
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Ancient coins and medals that circulated in Livorno’s free port
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Documents and royal decrees that granted freedom of religion, attracting merchants from all over Europe
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Multimedia installations that help visitors understand Livorno’s evolution into a tolerant and cosmopolitan city under the Medici dynasty
This mix of visual art, political history, and maritime influence makes the Medici museum in Livorno one of the most intriguing museum experiences in town.
The Museum’s Setting: Villa Mimbelli
Housed in the historical Granaries of Villa Mimbelli, surrounded by a lush 19th-century park. The same villa is also home to the Museo Civico Giovanni Fattori, dedicated to the great Tuscan painter and leader of the Macchiaioli movement (currently undergoing updates and will reopen in September 2025 to mark a historic occasion: the bicentenary of the birth of Giovanni Fattori)
With both museums located in the same complex, art lovers and history buffs can enjoy a rich, cultural itinerary all within walking distance.
Why You Should Visit the Medici Museum in Livorno
Because this is more than just a collection of beautiful artifacts : it’s a window into a period when Livorno became a beacon of modernity, diversity, and freedom. It highlights how the Medici family’s vision shaped the city’s identity as a global port and cultural crossroads.
As a licensed tour guide in Livorno, I can create custom tours that explore:
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The Medici museum in Livorno
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The Fattori Museum
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The historic district of Venezia Nuova
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The central market
Whether you’re arriving by cruise ship or staying in nearby cities like Pisa or Florence, Livorno offers something fresh and enriching.
Plan Your Tour of the Medici Museum in Livorno
I’m Valentina, a certified tour guide living in Livorno, and I specialize in private tours across Tuscany, including:
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City tours and food tours of Livorno
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Museum visits including the Medici museum in Livorno
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Day trips from Florence or Pisa
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Cruise excursions tailored to your schedule
📧 Contact me directly through my website www.florencepisatours.com to create a custom itinerary that includes the Medici museum in Livorno and other cultural gems.
Don’t Miss Livorno’s Cultural Renaissance
In a region filled with timeless cities, Livorno is one of Tuscany’s best-kept secrets. And now, with the Medici museum in Livorno reopened, it’s the perfect moment to visit.
Experience the Medici legacy, walk through centuries of maritime history, and discover art treasures in a place most tourists never see.
Let Livorno surprise you and let me guide you!
