Monumento a Garibaldi (Monument to Garibaldi), La Spezia
The Monument to Giuseppe Garibaldi is a striking equestrian statue located in the Public Gardens of the historic center. Created by Italian sculptor Antonio Garella, the bronze monument was inaugurated on June 1, 1913, in the presence of city officials and Garibaldi veterans. The statue honors Garibaldi鈥檚 repeated stays in La Spezia, particularly after his involvement in the Roman Republic (1849), the Battle of Aspromonte (1862), and the Battle of Mentana (1867). The unveiling was accompanied by three days of celebrations, including concerts, rowing competitions, and cycling races, reflecting the city's deep admiration for the legendary general. The monument is also notable for being one of the few equestrian statues in the world where the horse is depicted rearing on its hind legs, a rare and challenging artistic solution.
Weighing six tons, the bronze statue is mounted on a stone base from Romito, a choice that further emphasizes its grandeur. The design competition for the monument began in 1882, shortly after Garibaldi's passing, but debates over the ideal location delayed its completion for decades. Eventually, the Public Gardens were chosen, and orange trees were cut down to make space for the statue. The monument captures Garibaldi in a heroic stance, symbolizing his role in Italy鈥檚 Risorgimento and his relentless fight for national unity.
Giuseppe Garibaldi (1807鈥�1882) was an Italian general, patriot, and revolutionary who played a pivotal role in the unification of Italy. Known as the 鈥淗ero of Two Worlds鈥�, he led military campaigns in both Europe and South America, gaining international recognition for his daring exploits. His most famous achievement was the Expedition of the Thousand (1860), which led to the annexation of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies to the emerging Kingdom of Italy. A republican and anticlerical figure, Garibaldi also advocated for women鈥檚 inclusion in Freemasonry and briefly held the position of Grand Master of the Grand Orient of Italy. His literary contributions, including memoirs, political writings, novels, and poetry, further cemented his place as one of Italy鈥檚 most revered historical figures.
Weighing six tons, the bronze statue is mounted on a stone base from Romito, a choice that further emphasizes its grandeur. The design competition for the monument began in 1882, shortly after Garibaldi's passing, but debates over the ideal location delayed its completion for decades. Eventually, the Public Gardens were chosen, and orange trees were cut down to make space for the statue. The monument captures Garibaldi in a heroic stance, symbolizing his role in Italy鈥檚 Risorgimento and his relentless fight for national unity.
Giuseppe Garibaldi (1807鈥�1882) was an Italian general, patriot, and revolutionary who played a pivotal role in the unification of Italy. Known as the 鈥淗ero of Two Worlds鈥�, he led military campaigns in both Europe and South America, gaining international recognition for his daring exploits. His most famous achievement was the Expedition of the Thousand (1860), which led to the annexation of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies to the emerging Kingdom of Italy. A republican and anticlerical figure, Garibaldi also advocated for women鈥檚 inclusion in Freemasonry and briefly held the position of Grand Master of the Grand Orient of Italy. His literary contributions, including memoirs, political writings, novels, and poetry, further cemented his place as one of Italy鈥檚 most revered historical figures.
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Monumento a Garibaldi (Monument to Garibaldi) on Map
Sight Name: Monumento a Garibaldi (Monument to Garibaldi)
Sight Location: La Spezia, Italy (See walking tours in La Spezia)
Sight Type: Statue/Public Art
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: La Spezia, Italy (See walking tours in La Spezia)
Sight Type: Statue/Public Art
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in La Spezia, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in La Spezia
Creating your own self-guided walk in La Spezia is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
La Spezia Introduction Walking Tour
A short train hop from the famed coastal area of Cinque Terre, La Spezia is Liguria鈥檚 unsung hero. Tucked snugly between cliffs and the shimmering Ligurian Sea, it sits conveniently between Genoa and Pisa. Often passed over by the crowds, those who pause here are rewarded with a blend of historical intrigue, cultural flair, and mouthwatering seafood鈥攁ll served up against a backdrop of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles