Livorno’s Boccale Castle: Explore the Spectacular Sunset Views of Tuscany’s Southern Coast
One of the most spectacular panoramic points in Livorno is found on an elevated position along the southern coast of the Tuscan city, near Cala dei Pirati. Not far away is also the Torre di Calafuria.
A City Tied to the Sea
Livorno, as we know, is closely tied to the waters that crash against the rocks surrounding it. History transformed Livorno into one of the main ports in Europe when the Medici family decided to enhance its location by expanding the town around the imposing Mastio di Matilde di Canossa.
Following in those footsteps, to the south of the city, in the Antignano district, continuing along the road to Quercianella, stands the Castello del Boccale. This imposing fortification was built on the remains of an ancient Medici tower, also known as the Maroccone or Devil’s Tower, and it majestically overlooks Cala dei Pirati.
The Boccale Apartments
Visiting the rooms of the castle is not permitted because, over time, the structure has been transformed into a private multiple residence. Access is only possible upon invitation from one of the owners or by renting one of the apartments available to tourists for summer holidays. However, it’s worth admiring its profile at sunset, when the fiery tones of the sky add a romantic allure, making the waves that crash against the rocks even more mesmerizing.
During the day, the atmosphere remains tied to the castle’s historical function as a watchtower, part of a network guarding the coast and providing safety to the inland villages. Each of these towers was connected by a signal system to communicate the arrival of guests—friendly or otherwise—from the sea.
The History of the Castle and the Pirates’ Cove
The origins of the castle are linked to the Medici government, which in 1595 built a tower on the remains of a previous Pisan fortification. In the second half of the nineteenth century, the construction of the castle began, designed in a neo-medieval style. The rectangular building is surrounded by three smaller round towers, with the ancient Medici tower facing the sea. The stretch of coast that includes it, extending towards the Torre di Calafuria, is called Cala dei Pirati, in memory of the Saracens who repeatedly raided the Livorno area.
The tower was later acquired by Marchioness Eleonora Ugolini, who added battlements that were eventually removed by the Whitaker-Ingham family in the early twentieth century and replaced with a pitched roof. After restoration by Livorno architect Ivano Falchini, the castle was divided into 11 apartments and 6 annexes with sea views, all privately owned. Visits are therefore limited to the exterior. Access to the sea is possible from the rocks surrounding the castle.
Useful Information for Seeing and Photographing Boccale Castle
Name: Boccale Castle
Location: Livorno
Address: Coastal Road. GPS coordinates 43°28′33.48″N 10°19′47.37″E
Where to photograph the castle: The best spot is located south of the manor. You can park in front of the castle on the west side of the road, then walk down to the rocks starting from the parking lot reserved for motorcycles. Beautiful photos can be taken both from sea level and from halfway up the hill. The best time for photos is at sunset in autumn, winter, and spring. During summer, the castle is slightly backlit, so it’s better to take photos in the morning or early afternoon. The Calafuria Tower is located a few hundred meters further south.
How to Get There
Proceeding from Livorno, starting in the Antignano district, continue along the coastal road to Quercianella, in the stretch of coast called “Boccale” or “Cala dei Pirati.” The Boccale Castle is located near Torre di Calafuria and Castello Sonnino. The area has a parking lot and is also easily accessible by bus.
