Collesalvetti: Discover History, Sources and Trails

Collesalvetti combines architectural history, protected landscapes and trails for active days. The area offers several distinct points of interest: the Acquedotto Leopoldino, historical evidence such as the Roman Mansio di Torretta Vecchia, and the springs of Colognole.

From the Aqueduct to Municipal Art

Construction of the Acquedotto Leopoldino began in 1793 and was completed in 1868. Its route runs from Colognole in Collesalvetti to Livorno via Via delle Sorgenti. It was originally conceived as a walkable “aqueduct promenade”. The Pinacoteca Comunale Carlo Servolini, founded in 2007, adds another cultural dimension. Together, these places provide access to architectural history and art, although the two subjects have different characteristics.

Historical Evidence with Clear Limitations

The Villa Medicea di Collesalvetti is also part of the area’s history: it was acquired by Lorenzo and Giuliano de’ Medici in 1476. Today, the villa is a private residence and cannot be visited. The core of the Eremo della Sambuca is older, dating from 1100. The Eremo is a protected national monument; its interior cannot be visited. The Roman Mansio di Torretta Vecchia lies along the Via Aemilia Scauri. It remained in operation at least until the middle of the 6th century AD and is a well-organized complex covering more than 600 square metres.

Landscape of Springs and Trails near Colognole

The protected Sorgenti di Colognole area extends across the south-western part of the municipality of Collesalvetti, just outside the village of Colognole. The Parco dei Monti Livornesi covers 1,300 hectares in the municipalities of Livorno, Collesalvetti and Rosignano Marittimo. The Parco dei Monti Livornesi extends beyond Collesalvetti, while the Sorgenti di Colognole lies within the municipality. For walks around the springs of the Acquedotto di Colognole, there is a 5.9-kilometre trail along CAI trails 199, 125, 125P and 119. A 9.2-kilometre hiking trail leads to the Eremo della Sambuca via CAI trails 100 and 100B. Anyone choosing the route to the Eremo should allow more time for it than for the route around the springs, as the two distances set different parameters for a day of hiking.

Activities and Regional Impressions

Collesalvetti offers opportunities for hiking, cycling and horse riding. The different trail lengths give you a concrete framework if you want to divide your days between a shorter walk and a longer hike. Culinary connections are also part of the local diversity: the village of Nugola is associated with the “Settembre di..vino” event, which includes tastings and meetings with wine producers.

Other Places for Your Planning

Guasticce, Castell'anselmo Li, Colognole and Parrana San Giusto

For the main travel overview: Livorno.

More Destinations

More places within the same destination:

San Piero In Campo, Casalappi, Campiglia Marittima, La Cinquantina.