*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 office.*
Italian News from Camp Darby – December 5, 2025
- Livorno offers free bus service
- Pisa tree lighting
- Livorno welcomes the Olympic torch
- Livorno Christmas market relocated
- Bientina Nativity scene treasure hunt
Livorno offers free bus service – December 5, LivornoToday
LIVORNO – Buses and funicular railroads are free on Dec.7, 8, 14 and 21 in Livorno. This Christmas season, the City Council, in conjunction with Autolinee Toscane (public transportation company), reiterates its commitment to sustainable mobility. The campaign intends to promote the use of public transportation on days when traffic to and from the city center is heavy. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa tree lighting – December 5, PisaToday
PISA – The program of events that will enliven the city of Pisa during the Christmas season, which runs until Jan. 6, 2026, begins on Friday, Dec. 5. In addition to the big, decorated tree in Piazza XX Settembre, which will be lit as is customary on Monday, Dec. 8, smaller trees and installations will brighten other parts of the city. The tree will be lit up. At 5 p.m., Christmas carols will be sung by a traveling choir that will start from Piazza Vittorio Emanuele and arrive in Piazza XX Settembre; there, at 6 p.m., the tree will be lit up. Numerous Christmas markets will also enliven the city, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, will host 18 kiosks selling handicrafts and presents. Logge dei Banchi will hold a special market with 17 stalls, including a handmade nativity scene and Santa’s House. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Livorno welcomes the Olympic torch – December 5, LivornoToday
LIVORNO – Actor and comedian Leonardo Fiaschi, former fencing champion Aldo Montano, Paralympic athlete Ambra Sabatini and former Livorno Calcio striker Igor Protti are among the torchbearers who will proudly carry the Olympic flame of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Games along a section of the city’s road on Friday, Dec. 12. The brazier is slated to be lit at 7:30 p.m., and a temporary Olympic village will be established in Piazza della Repubblica. Olympic and Paralympic athletes, Summer and Winter Olympic champions, celebrities from the entertainment industry, of universal inspiration will all be featured in the Olympic torch relay. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Livorno Christmas market relocated – December 5, Il Tirreno
LIVORNO – Workers had already begun setting up the stalls when they were stopped by the authorities. The Christmas market was intended to light up Via Ricasoli from Saturday, Dec. 6 until Christmas Eve, but something went wrong. In fact, the wooden stalls that were meant to “host” traditional products in preparation for the impending holidays exceeded the originally planned size. Mayor Luca Salvetti explained, they are “bigger than those disclosed and approved.” Moving the stalls in Piazza Grande is the primary relocation plan. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Bientina Nativity scene treasure hunt – December 5, TerrediPisa
BIENTINA (Pisa) – The second edition of the “Nativity Scene Treasure Hunt” returns to Bientina, transforming the small town into a widespread journey of creativity and tradition. Each registered nativity scene becomes a stop on the trail, helping to build a map that visitors can follow during the holidays. The nativity scene must be displayed in a place visible to the public from Dec. 5 to Jan. 6, 2026. Check out www.prolocobientina.it for details about holiday related events. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Recent Italian News highlights
Tuscany improves in Italy’s quality-of-life ranking – December 2, Il Tirreno
TUSCANY– According to Il Sole 24 Ore’s annual quality of life ranking, Livorno is ranked 49th. Compared to 2024, when the city came in at number 62, this is a huge improvement. The city of Pisa also increased the quality of life by five points compared to 2024. As for Tuscany, Siena ranks top (21st) followed by Pisa (29th); Florence (36th); Prato (38th); Arezzo (44th); Lucca (58th); Grosseto (59th); Massa-Carrara (64th) and Pistoia (66th). (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
San Rossore Christmas market – December 2, PisaToday
PISA – On Saturday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., the Sala Gronchi in Cascine Vecchie, close to the entrance to San Rossore, will host the Christmas market, which will feature items from the park and locally sourced goods from the Migliarino San Rossore and Massaciuccoli protected area. This year's new offerings include honey from bees that gather nectar from flowers growing in the nature reserve and locally sourced meat from the San Rossore organic farm. You will also find the renowned San Rossore pine nuts, beach honey with its powerful and recognizable flavor, and seasonal vegetables. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pontedera Christmas in art– December 2, TerrediPisa
PONTEDERA (Pisa) – Pontedera is preparing to celebrate the Christmas holidays with a rich program of shows and events for adults and children. Beginning Dec. 8, a journey through art and wonder, with sculptures and a special tribute to Pinocchio. The atrium of Palazzo Stefanelli, the town hall, Piazza Cavour and roundabouts are just some of the locations hosting the works of artist Giuliano Tomaino. Artist’s creations will be displayed in the town center, during Christmas time. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Volterra at Christmas – December 2, TerrediPisa
VOLTERRA (Pisa) – Volterra celebrates Christmas and New Year’s Eve with a program of events of various kinds and for all ages taking place in the beautiful historic center. From Dec. 6–8 with the “Puzzle Tour,” you can explore the heart of the historic center, discover ancient crafts and collect pieces hidden in the shops. On Dec. 11, the Olympic flame will pass through the city, while on Dec. 14, the streets of the city center will come alive with travelling shows, music, children’s activities and the arrival of Santa Claus. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Livorno hosts Christmas markets – December 1, LivornoToday
LIVORNO – The Christmas Market in Via Ricasoli will shortly open in addition to the numerous Christmas-related events. From Dec. 6 to 24, the wooden houses will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. There will be booths offering typical products; candies; mulled wine; chestnuts; jewelry; books and much more. Santa Claus will also be present every afternoon to give the kids candy and pose with them for pictures. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa Teatro Verdi opera program – November 28, TerrediPisa
PISA – The Verdi Theatre in Pisa, one of Italy’s finest traditional theaters and a prime example of 19th-century theater design, is where the opera season usually begins. Below is the program for the coming months. Le Bal Masquè: Nov. 28 at 8:30 p.m. and Nov. 30 at 3:30 p.m. Carmen: Jan. 23, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. and Jan. 25 at 3:30 p.m. The Turn of the Screw: Feb. 27, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. and March 1 at 3:30 p.m. L’Elisir d’amore: March 27, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. and March 29 at 3:30 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Volterra guided tour to salt mine – November 28, TerrediPisa
VOLTERRA (Pisa) – A journey into the world of salt with guided tours of the former State Saltworks in Saline di Volterra, where the purest salt in Italy is produced: the salt of Volterra. The visit includes a stop to the emporium where you can discover the products and the various uses of salt: from salt pearls to mother water for beauty and body care, up to the tasty salt beer. Opening hours are Friday from 2 to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 to noon and from 2 to 5 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa guided tour of Egyptian collection – November 28, TerrediPisa
PISA – The Edda Bresciani Egyptian Collections are part of the University of Pisa Museum System. On Saturday, Nov. 29 at 4 p.m., there will be a guided tour to discover the history, curiosities and stories behind some of the most precious artefacts preserved in the museum’s collections. Reservations are available until all places are filled by sending an email to info.collezioni-egittologiche@sma.unipi.it and providing a telephone number. Please note that admission is free on the first Sunday of the month. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa monument restoration approved and commissioned – November 25, Pisatoday
PISA – The Municipality of Pisa has approved the executive project and commissioned the repair of the Niccola Pisano monument in Piazza del Carmine. The intervention aims to restore a major piece of the city’s creative history in need of urgent repair. Salvino Salvini created the sculpture in 1862 from white Carrara marble. It shows architect and sculptor Niccola Pisano, a master of 13th-century Italian art, dressed in a cloak and carrying a chisel and mallet, symbols of his craft. The renovation is expected to take approximately three months and will not significantly affect traffic flow in the square. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Lucca dresses up for the holidays – November 25, Il Tirreno
LUCCA – The first stage of this year’s journey to “paint” the city’s monuments with dazzling light installation began on Nov. 22. The celebrations opened with the lighting of the tree in Piazza San Michele, the unveiling of the nativity scene at Palazzo Pretorio, and the launch of the French Christmas Village in Piazza Napoleone, where the facade of Palazzo Ducale transforms into a vibrant canvas of colors and artistic projections. Adding to the magic, the refurbished Ice Park was revealed on the city walls in front of the Caffè delle Mura: a panoramic and larger skating rink nestled among illuminated trees with views of the city center. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pontedera Piaggio Museum special opening – November 25, TerrediPisa
PONTEDERA (Pisa) – The Piaggio Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, on the second and fourth Sundays of the month (closed on Mondays) Free visit: the duration is 60 minutes. A voluntary contribution is appreciated. Visit without a guide for a maximum of 40 people. A guided tour is 60 minutes with a voluntary contribution of €5 per person. Guided tour for a maximum of 10 people. Admire the “Vespa” from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The rooms of the Piaggio Museum house precious pieces of pre-war railway and aeronautical production, the rich and admired Vespa collection, the collection of Piaggio two-, three- and four-wheeler products (Ape, Porter and mopeds) and the extraordinary collection of products linked to specifically motorbike and sports history of the Group’s brands including Aprilia, Gilera and Moto Guzzi, which together have collected the marvelous Palmares of 104 World Titles in the various motorcycling sports, from Supermoto to MotoGP, from Trial to SBK. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Christmas village at Livorno – November 21, Il Tirreno/LivornoToday
LIVORNO – The city’s Christmas Village will open on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 4 p.m. Villa Fabbricotti hosts a Christmas market with food, rides and entertainment. Santa’s House will also be there, with an additional room this year. On the day of the inauguration, Santa Claus will arrive with his elves and horses accompanied by the Piombino’s Galantara Marching Band. Tickets to Santa’s House are €8 for adults and €7 for youngsters. Groups of 20 or more will pay €6 each. The Village will be open from 3–7 p.m. on Dec. 11, 12, 18 and 19. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 6–8, 13–14, and 20–23. On Christmas Eve, it will open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Holiday season in Pisa
PISA – The Ferris wheel will be in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II during the Christmas season until Jan. 6, 2026. The Ferris wheel stands 22 meters tall and contains 16 cabins, which are fully illuminated with 6,000 LED lights. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
The Olympic flame will pass through Tuscany – November 18, LivornoToday
The Olympic flame for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games will arrive in Livorno Dec. 12, concluding its three-day journey across Tuscany. The torch will be lit in Olympia, Greece, Nov. 25, before beginning its tour of Italy. After passing through Umbria, the flame will enter Tuscany Dec. 10 from Arezzo, continuing through Montalcino, Montepulciano and Pienza before reaching the historic center of Siena. The next day, it will visit San Gimignano and Grosseto, then travel north through Volterra, Pontedera and Empoli, arriving in Florence’s historic center with a stop at Piazza Santissima Annunziata. From there, the route will include Pistoia and Montecatini Terme, before crossing the walls of Lucca and reaching Pisa’s Piazza del Duomo. The Tuscan leg will conclude in Livorno’s Piazza della Repubblica Dec. 12, from where the flame will depart for Sardinia. The nationwide journey begins Dec. 6 and will involve 10,001 torch bearers. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa province introduces three new intercity buses to improve services – November 18, PisaToday
PISA – In January 2026, three new public transport vehicles will join the Province of Pisa’s fleet, mostly for low-demand extra-urban services in the Valdarno, Valdicecina and Extraurbana Pisa districts (Fauglia, Orciano and Crespina Lorenza). (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Livorno leaps up 15 places in quality-of-life index – November 17, Il Tirreno/LivornoToday
LIVORNO – Livorno has moved up 15 places in the quality-of-life rankings since last year. In comparison to 2024, Livorno is ranked 38th in the region, trailing Florence (4th), Siena (18th), Prato (21st), Pisa (24th) and Lucca (31st). The study is divided into nine areas of analysis: business and work; environment; education and training; population; crime and security; income and wealth; social security; healthcare system; tourism; entertainment and culture. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Livorno Friday market extra openings – November 17, Il Tirreno
LIVORNO – During the pre-Christmas season, the municipality of Livorno has permitted the extraordinary opening of the traditional Friday Market. Street merchants are preparing to present their diverse products on Sundays, Dec. 14, Dec. 28 and Monday, Dec. 8 (Italian holiday) from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa to San Giuliano roundabout to be resurfaced – November 14, PisaToday
PISA – The CNR roundabout and the roads leading to it are being resurfaced on the border between Pisa and San Giuliano Terme, at the intersection of Via di Pratale, Strada Provinciale Vicarese, Via Moruzzi, Via Volpi and Via Alfieri. The work is being done at night to reduce traffic impact. The new roundabout has a diameter of 19 meters, compared to 9.5 meters for the previous one, and includes approximately 200 square meters of green space and 90 square meters of resin-coated asphalt that can be driven over. The asphalting covers approximately 2,500 square meters, while the cycle and pedestrian path on the San Giuliano Terme side covers 130 square meters and the CNR sidewalk, made of interlocking blocks, covers 230 square meters. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Tuscany, winter tires or snow chains are now required – November 14, LivornoToday
TUSCANY – On Saturday, Nov. 15, the obligation to carry snow chains or winter tires takes effect. The provision will be in effect until Apr. 15, 2026, and it will apply to all state highways and motorway junctions operated in Tuscany. Mopeds and motorbikes are exempt from use and may only operate in the absence of snowfall and ice on the road. The requirement is displayed on the road by specific vertical signs and is also valid outside of the specified periods, in the event of snowfall or ice formation. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa Palazzo Blu hosts “Belle epoque” exhibition – November 14, VisitTuscany
PISA – The exhibition “Belle Époque” will be held at Palazzo Blu through April 6, 2026. On display there will be works from Italian and international institutions, including the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Uffizi Galleries, the Capodimonte Museum and Royal Park, as well as private collections accessible to the public for the first time. The exhibition is divided into thematic sections that retrace the salient moments of that period: from the political upheavals of 1870 to the affirmation of modern Paris. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 10 a.m.–8 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
BientinAntiquaria offers Tuscan tradition
BIENTINA (Pisa) – “BientinAntiquaria” is one of the historic events of the Tuscan antiques tradition; it takes place every fourth Sunday of the month in Piazza Martiri della Libertà and adjacent streets from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. With around a hundred exhibitors, the event consolidates itself as a point of reference for the many enthusiasts looking for antiques; rarities; curiosities; modern antiques; vintage and collectibles.
At the same time, the Pieve Museum is open in the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Since the 18th century, the remains of St. Valentine the martyr (patron saint of Bientina) have been located here. The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 3:30 to 7 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa airport, new terminal work in progress – September 16, Il Tirreno
PISA – After extensive work on the foundations, the pillars of the structure have been completed. These not only define the perimeter of the building but also begin to give a “face” to what will be the terminal of the near future. By the first half of 2027, a modern and much more functional terminal will be completed. This will guarantee an increase in passenger capacity, estimated at seven million per year. The overall project involves three phases of renovation. After the new structure has been built, work will move to the current arrivals terminal, where the ground floor and first floor will be joined by a new vertical link, a new VIP lounge, and a passport control hall, before finally moving on to the current departures terminal. The terminal will increase in size from the current 39,500 square meters to 50,600 square meters. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Beertreck in Calci – July 11, PisaToday
CALCI (Pisa) – The trek begins in Calci, traveling through narrow streets with glimpses of old mansions and gardens. The perspective changes as you ascend, and you can see the settlements below and the Verruca hill. Arriving on the easy dirt road, the walk leads through olive orchards and mills before climbing up the opposite side to La Staffetta Brewery, where there will be a dinner with beer and some chatting by the stream. After dinner, return to the starting point. Reservation is requested at https://www.azimut-treks.it/beertrek-val-graziosa-calci. Here are some details: length is six km; height difference 200 mt; easy difficulty; max number of participants is 20; minimum age: eight years old; maximum of two dogs 2; contact guide. Details will be provided upon participation confirmation. Participation fee is € 30 for adults. The ticket includes environmental hiking guide service and dinner with medium beer, cold cuts and vegetarian cold pasta. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Beach resorts open for winter season – September 30, Il Tirreno
LIVORNO – Beach resorts in Livorno are preparing for the fall and winter season, with Tirreno, Lido, Roma and Rex offering extended access and services. Lido opens Oct. 4, operating weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with free admission, sunbed and umbrella rentals, and a bar and self-service restaurant. Tirreno will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. between Oct. 1 and April 30. Roma’s gates will open on weekends, with restaurant service for lunch and dinner on Saturdays and lunch only on Sundays. Winter passes include hot showers: €250 at Roma and €100–€300 at Rex, depending on duration. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa Botanical Garden offers guided tours – June 20, TerrediPisa
PISA – On the third Saturday of the month, the Botanical Garden and Museum of the University of Pisa offers Botanical Saturday, a guided tour dedicated to its plant collections, a unique heritage that changes with the seasons. Every first Sunday of the month, entrance to the Botanical Garden and Museum is free. Founded in 1543, it is the first university botanical garden in the world. Originally built on the banks of the Arno River, it was moved to its current location in 1591 and then gradually expanded to its current size of about two hectares. It houses plants from the five continents: succulents from the African and American deserts; aromatic plants from the Mediterranean maquis; species from the Tuscan marshes; numerous centuries-old trees and many others. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Mercatale, local food market in San Miniato – June 13, TerrediPisa
SAN MINIATO – The third Sunday of the month, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Mercatale takes place under the Loggiati di San Domenico; the event is a “zero km” market of agricultural products. For 10 years, farmers and producers in the countryside around San Miniato have been setting up a market where they can sell the fruits of their labor directly to consumers. (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)
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)
Livorno church seeks revival
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)
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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