Castelnuovo Magra (La Spezia)

Inhabitants 8.147
Area 14,95 Sq km
Altitude 274 m. asl
A12 motorway exit - Sarzana

The old town Castelnuovo Magra is situated on the Monte Bastione, south west of the Magra; it looks like a ship, as it's particularly evident from the Genova-Livorno motorway. From the top of the hill Castelnuovo dominates the plain and a long stretch of the coast. In particularly clean days, it is possible to see from a distance the outline of some of the islands in front of Tuscany's coast: Capraia, Gorgona, Elba and even Corse.

Castelnuovo's territory is divided in three areas: one in the plains, one on the hills and a third one on the mountains. Most of the population lives in the plains, along the ancient via Aurelia. Climbing up the hilly area we find the historical center of Castelnuovo, rich in Renaissance and Baroque palaces; on the very top of Castelnouvo, the remains of an old castle overlook the valley. All around, green forests scattered with vineyards and olive trees are perfect for hiking and horse riding; they're also a popular venue for mountain bike competitions.

When the air is clear a stunning scenario stretches in front of Castelnuovo, embracing a large region from the valley of Magra to its mouth, from the islands to Livorno's coast.