Thanks to its strategic location , the town of Sarzana has always been a central hub at the crossroads of important communication routes among Liguria, Tuscany and Emilia Romagna. In ancient times Sarzana was an important agricultural and commercial center. During the Middle Ages it became more relevant because it was the seat of the Bishop and of the justice court. Since the city center is very closed to the shores washed by the Ligurian Sea and to the border with Tuscany, the surroundings of Sarzana are characterized by a great variety of natural landscapes: the imposing rocky eastern coast of Liguria descending gently to the sandy beaches of the northern coast of Tuscany and the hilly hinterland of Lunigiana constellated with small suggestive medieval villages.

Sarzana still preserves its original nature of medieval center, even if the city plan changed when walls, great towers and a Citadel were built in later times, conferring a walled-up look to the town, which is overlooked by the imposing Firmafede Fortress.

From an economic point of view, tourism is one of the most significant economic resources for Sarzana. Thanks to its cosy urban plan, the old town is very easy to visit and boasts a great amount of artworks : worth-seeing are the buildings and the churches, their structures, sculptures and paintings. Imposing buildings and monuments overlook the suggestive lanes and squares of the old town and its characteristic antique dealers, workshops and restorers.

Besides the cultural tourism, the visitor has the opportunity to enjoy the blue sea and sandy beaches of Marinella di Sarzana , which stretch for 3 kilometers and are only five minutes drive from Sarzana. Free golden beaches and bathing establishments with convenient sea access and a full range of facilities are the ideal scenario for a relaxing holiday.

According to the period of your stay, cultural events and art exhibitions famous all over the country take place in Sarzana all over the year:

Soffitta nella strada (literally “Attic in the street”): is an exhibition of antiquities and modern products, which takes place in the old center during summer.

Calandriniana : Many artists (painters) take part to this art show, creating live paintings along the lanes of the old center. It owes its name to Piazza Calandrini, which is the main place where the exhibition takes place.

Napoleon Festival: Historical reenactment of events relative to Napoleon.

Festival della Mente (literally “Mind Festival”): it is the first European festival devoted to creativity and creative processes, to which many Italian and foreign important people take part: writers, artists, musicians, architects, anthropologists, historians, directors, actors, scientists, philosophers, who have dedicated original reflections to the nature and features of this most valued human faculty.

Festival Internazionale del Teatro di Strada : it is an international exhibition of theatrical performances along the streets in the town center.

Fiera tradizionale delle nocciole (“folk hazelnuts fair”): with gourmet stands.