Piazza Shelley is typical of Italian squares with its array of intriguing sights, cultural customs and history. The plaza in Viareggio tells the tragic tale of an 18th-century English poet with a monument at its centre.
Percy Bysshe Shelley was one of the pre-eminent writers of the Romantic Period in English literature. He travelled throughout his short life around continental Europe until 1822, when he was caught in a storm off the Italian coast while sailing in his schooner. The 29-year-old poet died after the boat capsized and his body was washed ashore near to the site of Piazza Shelley. His body was cremated on a Viareggio beach.
In the late 19th century, the famous Italian artist Urbano Lucchesi was asked to sculpt a monument to Shelley. The work of art was finished in 1894 and was considered a successful effort. See the striking monument in the centre of the plaza. It consists of a podium with the head and upper body of the poet, including his curly locks.
The piazza is within a stone’s throw of many of the beach town’s attractions. Admire the panoramic vista of the Mediterranean Sea from La Passeggiata di Viareggio, which is a promenade full of boutiques and restaurants. Browse the museums in Villa Paolina, the former summer home of Paolina Bonaparte, Napoleon’s sister.
Viareggio has a pleasant Mediterranean climate year-round. Yet the main square is particularly popular in February, when large crowds gather to attend the Carnival of Viareggio. The event, which is held on four consecutive Sundays throughout the month, is one of the oldest and most famous of its kind in Europe. See a parade of enormous caricatures of celebrities, including politicians, entertainers and historical figures.
Relax on a bench in the square with a picnic and take in the quaint sights surrounding you. Piazza Shelley is easy to find by foot, bike or car. There are many parking spaces.
