Castello Sonnino

Castello Sonnino is a Gothic Revival castle perched on coastal cliffs near Livorno with views over the Tuscan sea. The structure combines a tower, small battlements, and an external chapel, developed from an earlier tower that already stood on the site.

The castle's origins trace back to an existing tower under Cosimo III de Medici before it was later rebuilt. Sidney Sonnino, Italy's Prime Minister, acquired the property in 1895 and from then on connected his name to it.

The castle shows how wealthy Italians of the late 1800s chose to design their homes and what architectural styles they favored. The blend of Gothic features and its seaside setting reflects the tastes of that era.

The castle is privately owned and can only be visited through scheduled guided tours, which are arranged in advance via contact through the Quercianella area on Via Aurelia. Visitors should plan ahead since drop-in visits are not possible.

Sidney Sonnino had a personal sarcophagus built inside a grotto on the grounds and chose this as his final resting place. This decision by a Prime Minister to create an underground tomb within his private castle is an unusual choice that visitors often overlook.

Location: Livorno

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Address: Via Aurelia

GPS coordinates: 43.46198,10.35577

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:41