*The garrison public affairs office translates summaries of local news articles for the convenience of non-Italian speaking community members. The information contained in these summaries is originally written by Italian news sources and does not reflect the opinion of U.S. Army Garrison Italy or any of its tenant commands. Direct any questions about the Italian news to the garrison public affairs D’Italia
Italian News from Camp Darby – May 30, 2025
- Paid parking will resume along Pisa coastline
- Rowing competition season begins in Livorno
- Straborgo fest runs from May 30 to June 2
- Tre Ponti beach closed for 10 days
- Ship Amerigo Vespucci open for visits
- Palio del Cero in Volterra
- The “Ficattola” food fest in Bientina
- “Festa dell’ allegria” in Morrona
Paid parking will resume along Pisa coastline – May 30, Il Tirreno
PISA – Starting June 1, paid parking will resume along the Pisa coastline, lasting until Sept. 15. The blue parking zones and meters will be active, with tariffs unchanged from last year. Zone 1 charges €1 per hour, €4.50 for six hours, and €6 for a full day, with specific streets and piazzas included. Zones 2, 3, and 4 offer free parking for the first 30 minutes, followed by €1 per hour, with varying timeframes and locations in Marina di Pisa and Tirrenia. Seasonal parking subscriptions are available. Residents of Pisa can obtain reduced-rate seasonal passes for €70, while non-residents can purchase monthly passes for €80 or seasonal passes for €150. Free seasonal passes are available for residents of Marina, Tirrenia and Calambrone who lack private parking, with restrictions on the number of passes per household. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Rowing competition season begins in Livorno – May 30, Il Tirreno
LIVORNO – The Tito Neri 2025 Risiatori Cup, the city’s historic rowing event, now in its 46th year, will take place over the weekend May 31–June 1 with a program full of races, performances and festive moments. In the afternoon, from 3:30 to 7 p.m., the stretch of water between the Novi Lena and Darsena Nuova docks will host category races, in four-oar boats, along a racecourse divided into four lanes marked by special buoys. At the same time, in the land area of the Porta a Mare Shopping Center, the activities of the Special Olympics category will take place. Sunday, June 1, will be the day dedicated to 10-oar boats. A women’s 10-oar “gozzo” race is scheduled at 5 p.m. in the stretch of water in front of Scali Novi Lena and Porto Mediceo. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Straborgo festival runs from May 30 to June 2 – May 30, PisaToday
LIVORNO – The 2025 Straborgo festival, which takes place in the Borgo neighborhood of Livorno from May 30 to June 2, will open with a concert by the Modena City Ramblers. As usual, Piazza Mazzini will be the festival’s focal point, with its large stage hosting three concerts (all beginning at 10 p.m.) and a fun-filled evening. Admission to all activities is free. The streets, squares and other outdoor areas that define the neighborhood will be the locations of Straborgo’s other initiatives including antique market, kid-friendly rides and traditional booths offering handicrafts. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Tre Ponti beach closed for 10 days – May 30, LivornoToday
LIVORNO – Tre Ponti (Three Bridges) beach will be off limit from June 3–13 for beach cleaning and restoration work. The aim is to make the shoreline fully usable for customers in view of the beginning of summer. That stretch of shoreline is in fact currently “invaded” by Posidonia (a type of seagrass) that makes it difficult even to lie down. For this reason, the administration has scheduled these cleaning operations that could last even less than 10 days, if the cleaning company manages to finish the work earlier than the established date. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Ship Amerigo Vespucci open for visits – May 30, LivornoToday
LIVORNO – The “Amerigo Vespucci” is about to return to Livorno after touring the world. The world’s most beautiful ship, the pride of the Navy, will be in town at the Capitaneria pier from June 4 to 8, but to board, reservations are required by connecting to this link https://tourvespucci.it/livorno-4-8-giugno-2025/. Tours will be available on June 4 (2 to 8 p.m.), 5 (4 to 9 p.m.) and 6 (3 to 9 p.m.). At the time of booking, a QR Code will be issued with which you can board the Vespucci Ship. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
“Palio del Cero” in Volterra – May 30, TerrediPisa
VOLTERRA – On June 2, Palio del Cero begins with the parades of the eight districts (contrade) that start from different points of the city and meet in the square. After the blessing of the ‘canapi’ and of the tower-like figure – where the salt needed to weigh it down was placed (salt coming from the Volterra Salt Mines) – the costumed contestants enter the square and the competition begins. Each ‘Contrada’ has a team of eight members, six men and two women, and the teams compete with a series of tug-of-war competitions. At the top of the tower there is a cero or taper, (hence the name “Palio del Cero”), painted every year by an artist from Volterra, which will belong to the winning ‘Contrada’ together with the white and red flag of the Municipality of Volterra. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
The “Ficattola” food fest in Bientina – May 30, TerrediPisa
BIENTINA (Pisa) – The traditional festival, now in its 31st year, returns for three weekends from May 30 to June 8. The festival takes place at the Parco delle Sughere, with food stands opening from 7.30 p.m. onwards. Every evening a musical show, access is free. The “ficattola” is nothing more than a type of flour-based pasta, fried in hot oil, to be eaten plain or stuffed with cold cuts or other delicacies. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
“Festa dell’ allegria” in Morrona – May 30, TerrediPisa
MORRONA (Pisa) – Morrona, a small village nestling in the hills, awaits you with genuine flavors and good wine, with art, shows and entertainment for young and old at its “Festa dell’ allegria” (Happiness Fest). Every evening for dinner and on Sunday also for lunch at the food stands of the festival with traditional dishes, from the first courses still cooked the old-fashioned way by the women of Morrona to grilled meat, side dishes and homemade desserts, all accompanied by local wines. There will be a wine bar with tastings of the best wines from the Pisan hills, in Geppetto’s woods on Sunday afternoon a jump among the wooden games of the past and live music concerts in Piazza Alessandro da Morrona with free admission. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Recent Italian News highlights
Pisa Palazzo Blu hosts “La Razza Umana” exhibit – May 27, PisaToday
PISA – The exhibition “Razza Umana” (the human race) by Oliviero Toscani Studio arrives at Palazzo Blu in Pisa until June 29. This first Italian showcase of one of Toscani’s most iconic projects, following his recent passing, features more than 500 portraits collected worldwide, including local faces captured in Pisa during the early days of Palazzo Blu in 2007-2008. The project, a socio-political, cultural and anthropological study, showcases the unique characteristics of human morphology. The exhibition located in Lungarno Galilei 9 is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.–7 p.m., and weekends/holidays from 10 a.m.–8 p.m. For more information, visit Palazzo Blu’s website at palazzoblu.it. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
“Tra Sogno Magia & Benessere” returns to Pisa – May 27, PisaToday
PISA – The 41st edition of “Tra Sogno Magia & Benessere” returns to Pisa in its summer format, taking place on May 31, June 1 and 2 at Stazione Leopolda in Piazza Guerrazzi. The event runs from 3 to 11 p.m., offering visitors the chance to enjoy the fair and grab a quick meal at the street food stalls, including vegan and vegetarian options. Conveniently located near Pisa’s train station, Galileo Galilei Airport and major highways, the fair promises a blend of magic, wellness and culinary delights. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Cherry Fest in Lari – May 27, TerrediPisa
LARI (Pisa) – The traditional Sagra della Ciliegia of Lari (cherry fest) celebrates its 67th edition on May 31 and June 1-2. Held in the historic center of Lari, the festival features a cherry market showcasing 14 local IGP-certified varieties, renowned for their unique taste and heritage. Visitors can enjoy gastronomic delights, explore the Castello dei Vicari, and participate in cultural and artistic events. Highlights include the Ciliegia d’Oro award (gold cherry) for the best cherry producer and an exciting market featuring local food and wine products. The festival honors Lari’s centuries-old cherry-growing tradition, rooted in the area’s unique soil, climate and agricultural expertise. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa is preparing for the “Luminara” – May 27, Il Tirreno
PISA – Pisa is preparing for the Luminara di San Ranieri, its most anticipated annual event, set for June 16. Starting mid-May, the city began installing traditional wooden structures, known as “biancherie,” on buildings along the Lungarni to hold approximately 100,000 lumini, or small lights. The event, a symbol of Pisa’s identity and history, has been revitalized by the municipal administration since 2018, addressing issues with aging structures and fostering collaboration with property owners. The 2024 edition marked significant progress, but further improvements are planned. Residents and businesses are encouraged to minimize electric lighting during the Luminara to enhance its magical atmosphere. The Luminara is part of broader efforts to strengthen Pisa’s historical events and cultural identity. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
New speedometers in Livorno province – May 20, Il Tirreno
COLLESALVETTI (Livorno) – Four fixed speed control stations have been installed at locations identified by the decree of the Prefect of Livorno. The locations are in the town of Torretta Vecchia at kilometer 28+370 of Sr 206; in the town of Guasticce at kilometer 5+300 of SP 555 (Via Don Sturzo); in the town of Stagno at kilometer 0+300 of Sp 555 (Via Barontini); and in the area of Ponte Biscottino at kilometer 15+030 of Ss 67-bis Arnaccio. All stations are bidirectional, covering both directions of travel. Currently, only the Ponte Biscottino station is active, as the other three require the installation of pre-signage as mandated by current regulations. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa is enhancing security with surveillance cameras – May 20, Il Tirreno
PISA – Pisa is enhancing its security and surveillance system with the installation of 63 new license plate reading cameras. These cameras will be strategically placed to cover all city access points, adding to the existing eight cameras. The project, funded with €1,040,000 by the municipal administration, aims to improve access control, road safety and support for law enforcement investigations. Once activated, the cameras will be connected to the operational centers of the police forces. The total number of surveillance devices in the city will increase to 263, including 164 surveillance cameras and 99 license plate reading cameras. The installation will be completed in three phases, with the first phase covering Coltano, the second Pisa North, and the third Pisa South. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Workers leveling beaches in Marina di Pisa – May 15, PisaToday
MARINA DI PISA – Workers are currently leveling the gravel beaches in Marina di Pisa. Reconstruction of the cliffs between Bagno Arcobaleno and Bagno Marta will also begin in the next few days. The project was financed by the Municipality of Pisa with a contribution from the Tuscany Region, totaling approximately 64,000 euros. Maintenance work will also soon begin on the reefs in the same area, with a project cost of 215,000 euros. (Summary by Andrea Culletto)
Sale of Pam in Pisa sparks state of agitation – May 15, PisaToday
PISA – The sale of the historic Pam Supermarket on Via Cascine in Pisa is imminent. Slated to be purchased by Micasa Shop srl, the sale has caused concern within the unions about the potential loss of employment for 19 current Pam employees. Saturday, May 17, is the last day the store will be open to the public. Workers will be emptying the branch until May 31, following which they will be placed on vacation for the entire month of June. What happens after that is yet to be confirmed. (Summary by Andrea Culletto)
Record brood in Porcari with four chicks in the nest – May 13, Il Tirreno
PORCARI (Lucca) – In Porcari, a record brood of four stork chicks has been observed in the nest on Via Diaccio. The relationship between Porcari and these storks began in 2010 when a pair of storks built a nest on an electricity pylon. The white stork, once common in Roman times, had been absent from the area for centuries until the early 2000s. The first wild nest in Tuscany was recorded in 2005 in the Fucecchio marshes. Since 2010, storks have returned to the province of Lucca, leading to protective measures and the construction of a custom nest by Enel to ensure their safety. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Livorno is the cheapest town for pizza – May 12, Il Tirreno
LIVORNO – Consumers in Livorno spend less money on pizza and drinks than anywhere else in Italy, at €8.75 per dinner. As a result, it is the most affordable meal in the country. The cost of what essentially defines the Made in Italy around the world has risen by 18.3 percent in the last six years, reaching an average of €12.14 per person. Reggio Emilia is the city with the highest pizza prices, with an average dinner at a pizzeria costing around €17.58. Siena, on the other hand, ranks second, with an average price of €17.24 for a pizza and a drink. This is followed by Macerata (€16.25). Of the 59 provinces analyzed, seven have an average spending of more than €14 with drink. After Livorno, the least expensive destinations are Reggio Calabria (€9.15), Pescara (€9.37) and Catanzaro (€9.96). The survey states that these are the only cities where you can pay less than €10. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Dengue fever, one case in Pisa province – May 9, Il Tirreno
CASCINA (Pisa) – The mayor has issued an ordinance directed at all residents, condominium administrators, commercial operators and managers of productive activities to allow access for pest control personnel to carry out larvicidal and adulticidal treatments and remove larval breeding sites in private outdoor areas. Following a report from the ASL about a case of arboviruses from the Dengue virus transmitted by the tiger mosquito, the Municipality of Cascina, in the province of Pisa, will conduct adulticidal, larvicidal and larval breeding site elimination interventions as soon as weather conditions permit. Affected Areas include Via di Mezzo Nord, from house number 397 to 511 (south side) and from 218 to 274 (north side) and Via Laiano di Sotto from house number 1 to 4. In public areas, street drains, private areas and green areas pertaining to residences within the intervention area, the following actions will be taken including disinfestation of the affected area with insecticides, both adulticidal and larvicidal, on public and private properties; search and elimination of peri-domestic larval breeding sites with “door-to-door” inspections of homes within the indicated area. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Montenero funicular free on Sundays – May 5, LivornoToday
LIVORNO – Until Oct. 26, the Montenero funicular will be free on Sundays. Celebrating the 2025 Jubilee, the City of Livorno, in partnership with Autolinee Toscane, has adopted this initiative. “The administration’s plan to improve and revive public transportation includes this effort. Among other things, the funicular will develop into a major tourist destination, contributing to the revitalization of the Montenero district,” said Giovanna Cepparello, Livorno councilor for Mobility. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa-Rome line: delays and cancellations starting from May 5 – April 17, PisaToday
PISA– Starting May 5, passengers traveling on the Pisa-Grosseto-Rome train line should expect delays and cancellations for approximately three months due to major infrastructure upgrades. The work, totaling nearly 100 million euros, includes installing a new European Railway Traffic Management System (ERTMS) and renewing 15 kilometers of track. Regional trains: delays averaging 10 minutes, some schedule adjustments and occasional cancellations on specific routes. Intercity trains: delays of 10-20 minutes, schedule adjustments and route diversions for overnight trains impacting stops in Rome, Civitavecchia, Grosseto and Livorno. Frecciabianca (high-speed) trains: schedule changes on the Rome-Genoa route via Civitavecchia-Grosseto-Livorno. Passengers are advised to check train schedules closer to their travel dates using Trenitalia’s information channels. This investment aims to improve the line's technology, safety and efficiency in the long run. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Five hidden gems for a day trip in Tuscany – April 17, Il Tirreno
TUSCANY – Here are five hidden gems in Tuscany for a peaceful getaway suggested by blogger Riccardo Franchini:
Val di Merse, immerse yourself in silent woods and discover hidden churches. Ideal for off-the-grid walks, fresh air and reconnecting with nature.
Montegiovi, this tiny village perched in the Val d'Orcia offers tranquility and breathtaking views. Perfect for escaping noise, finding inspiration, and enjoying the company of welcoming locals.
Isola Santa, this village nestled in the Apuan Alps overlooks an emerald lake, creating a surreal and peaceful atmosphere. Disconnect from technology and find solace in the beauty of your surroundings.
Poggio di Montieri, located in the heart of Grosseto’s hinterland, this ancient ridge is ideal for getting lost in nature with a loved one or finding solitude. Wake up to stunning views and the simple pleasures of life.
Badia Prataglia, this enchanting village lies within the Casentino Forests National Park. Explore ancient beech and fir forests, discover hidden paths and embrace the tranquility of this magical place. Each destination offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and nature. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Maintenance work in Pisa – April 15, PisaToday
PISA – The city of Pisa has launched an extensive road resurfacing project involving more than 20 streets. This two-month project, which is planned to be completed by June 7, marks the final stage of a significant infrastructure revamp. This work comprises total road rehabilitation in areas where water and sewage networks were previously renovated. Several streets are set to be repaved including Via Squartini; Via Pontecorvo; Via Capiteta; Via Arginone; Via Emilia and Via Malasoma. The resurfacing efforts follow the completion of an update to the city’s sewage and purification systems. The cost of this project is €16 million and includes more than 25 kilometers of new pipelines, connecting numerous new customers to the sewage network and eliminating the final untreated direct discharges. It is considerably improving the quality and sustainability of the urban water supply. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Road closures for the summer – April 8, Il Tirreno
LIVORNO – Until Oct. 15, the Romito seaside route in Livorno, will be restricted to heavy traffic. This six-month closure, which was prolonged from the previous July-August period, affects the section from Maroccone to Chioma, as well as the SS206 between Vicarello and Malandrone. Traffic will be routed via the A12 motorway between Collesalvetti and Rosignano Marittimo. The CNA (National Confederation of Crafts and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises) is concerned about the longer closure and lack of notification, citing increased expenses for local transportation companies owing to tolls, mileage and driving time. They seek reimbursement from local governments as well as a system for calculating transit through the affected toll booths. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Wolf sighted near the sea at Vecchiano – April 8, Il Tirreno
PISA – A wolf, nicknamed as the “sea wolf,” has been observed prowling the beach at Bufalina, on the border of Vecchiano and Torre del Lago. A video shows the wolf walking down the beach during the day. This sighting comes after reports of a pack of wolves seen at night on Torre del Lago beach, prompting recommendations to keep pets on leashes. While these wolves are common in the area, they are not members of the established pack in the Pisa sector of the Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli Park. The park confirms that a distinct wolf family lives in San Rossore, contributing to the ecosystem by regulating the deer population. Researchers are monitoring wolf numbers in the park using a variety of tracking techniques. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Livorno church seeks revival – April 7, Il Tirreno
LIVORNO – The Chiesa dell'Apparizione (Church of the Apparition) in Livorno, Italy, closed for 19 years, is seeking to reopen. The Vallombrosan monks who own the church have launched a fundraising campaign to restore the building, which holds significant historical and religious importance as the site where, according to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to a shepherd boy in 1345. The initial fundraising goal is €300,000 to repair the damaged roof, with a total of 600,000 euros needed for a complete restoration of the church and adjacent rectory. Don Luca Giustarini, prior of the Montenero Abbey, is appealing to the Tuscan community and beyond for donations. Plans for the restored church include resuming mass celebrations, creating a parking area for pilgrims, establishing a retreat space in the rectory and housing seminarians who will care for the church. Donations can be made by contacting santamariadimontenero@gmail.com. A committee of monks and laypeople will oversee the transparent management of the funds. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Historical reenactment of the Ardenza circuit – April 7, LivornoToday
LIVORNO – Everything is ready for the seventh edition of the Circuito dell’Ardenza, a car reenactment of the historic race of Sept. 12, 1937, which, for the first time in the history of the Italian Grand Prix, left the Monza circuit to be held in Livorno. The crews are going to be in Piazza della Repubblica on April 12 and 13. The participants will travel through beautiful villages, tree-lined streets, the Tyrrhenian seashore, the high Maremma and the Tuscan hills of the provinces between Pisa and Livorno. The tour will include one-of-a-kind beauties, such as the cypress-lined avenue of Bolgheri in Castagneto Carducci and the towns of Cecina; Rosignano, Bibbona; Casale Marittimo; Guardistallo; Montescudaio; Riparbella; Castellina Marittima and Santa Luce to close the circle back in Livorno with the gala evening at the prestigious Yacht Club. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Marina di Pisa seafront goes car-free on holidays
MARINA DI PISA – Until June 8, the Marina di Pisa promenade will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sundays and public holidays, including those falling in the middle of the week, from 2 to 8 p.m. During these closure times, bicycles and comparable vehicles are permitted on the bike route within the closed-off area, but only at a walking pace. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Beaches to have mandatory lifeguards starting May 1 – March 28, LivornoToday
LIVORNO – New Tuscany regulations now require lifeguard services at beach facilities from May 1 to Sept. 30, corresponding with the extended tourist season. Unlike earlier traditions, where lifeguards were mostly present on weekends, the new laws demand their attendance throughout the establishment’s operating hours, including weekdays. However, it has raised concerns among beach operators, who anticipate a substantial shortfall of experienced lifeguards to handle the increased demand. To address these concerns and clarify the new laws, beach operators and the Port Captaincy have met, including a productive discussion with important stakeholders and officials on March 26. The goal is to ensure consistent safety standards throughout all Tuscan beaches, in line with norms in other Italian regions. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Summer vibes return with the reopening of seaside kiosks – March 28, Il Tirreno
PISA – Summer has returned to the shore between Livorno and Quercianella, with the reopening of popular seaside kiosks including the Baretto dell'Accademia, which commemorated its 10th anniversary on March 29; the “twin” kiosk at Tre Ponti opened on April 1. Il Pinguino, a street food and burger restaurant, will also reopen in April. Further south, La Spiaggetta in Quercianella will continue its long tradition of “peace and love” theme. These kiosks provide a casual setting for chatting, enjoying the beach, and commemorating the beginning of the summer season. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Jennifer Lopez in concert at Lucca Summer Festival – April 8, Il Tirreno
LUCCA – Jennifer Lopez announces her “It's My Party” tour with a stop in Lucca, on July 21, 2025, as part of the Lucca Summer Festival. Tickets will be available starting April 11 at 11 a.m. Ticket prices range from €86 for standing room to €250 for numbered seating (Sector 1). Fans can expect a performance featuring her greatest hits. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Tap&tap service available on regional trains
LIVORNO – The new rapid ticket purchasing channel for regional trains in Tuscany has arrived. The "Tap&Tap" system is operational as of Dec. 19, and it will enable passengers to save time when purchasing the voucher by allowing contactless payment cards to be passed straight from the station’s specific validators. The system is currently in operation at the 16 stops on the Florence-Pisa-Livorno route. To purchase a ticket, simply bring your contactless payment card, smartphone or enabled smartwatches close to the readers located in the validators at the departure station and then perform the same operation at the arrival station. With the same card, it is possible to purchase a ticket for only one adult passenger (ordinary adult fare in second class), while at the checkpoint on board the train it will be sufficient to communicate the last four numbers of the payment card used. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
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