Monday, September 14, 2009

Fortress with a Secret

Fortezza Nuova, LivornoFortresses have secrets and the “Fortezza Nuova” is no exception. Guarded by hundreds of cats, here are safely stored in a cellar the almost sacred “gozzi” for the “Palio Marinaro”.Fortezza Nuova, LivornoEvery quarter has its own boat for year-round training purposes, usually kept in the “cantine” facing the canals. But, for the “Palio” and the other major rowing competitions, the crews must use the original “gozzi” stored here.Fortezza Nuova, LivornoI have never seen before this curved tunnel leading to the water, with its stashed boats and neatly arranged oars, but I really think that somebody ought to fix this place up and open it to the public.

See also: Fortezza Nuova - Inside the Fortress - From the Fortress - Fortress from the Sky - The Fortress, at Last!
Search labels: Fortezza Nuova

20 comments:

stromsjo said...

I guess you've just started that process - opening it up to the public...

Well done, I'd say.

James said...

Wow! This is a fantastic series. The photos are wonderful and it's great to be able to explore this place through them.

Lowell said...

Did you know this place was here? How neat! I wonder if the gozzi are stored there because the air is beneficial or because it's convenient?

What a great find. And I agree it would be nice to allow the public down there.

I'll bet Stefano got you in!

Have a great week!

Tash said...

What a find! You are right - it would be a great place for a public tour!

nobu said...

Great!
Fantastic photos and story.

Baruch said...

Nice find - great idea to have it open for the public

Cezar and Léia said...

You are right,open this fabulous place for a public visit would be correct and great!
I hope people there can deal with this possibility into reality!
Great post!
Léia

Stefan Jansson said...

Cats can do anything!

B SQUARED said...

Cats always provide excellent security.

Halcyon said...

Neat! How were you able to access this sacred ground?

Ming the Merciless said...

Could it a secret tunnel that was dug to create a launch point for boats in case the medieval city was attacked?

amatamari© said...

The first photo is magnificent!

Unseen Rajasthan said...

Wow some lovely shots !! Thanks for sharing..Unseen Rajasthan

Wolynski said...

The stacked boat photos are fantastic and I love the dark church.

tapirgal said...

The sacred boats . . . you should write a history book from your perception :) I love the photos, especially the red boats and ancient curved structure from the inside. Very cool discovery and great pic!!!

Rob Siemann said...

Great series! You're absolutely right, it should really be opened to the public.

Tinsie said...

The first photo is pretty amazing!

Unknown said...

Fantastic perspective (1st shot)!

Fio said...

Interesting reportage. Thank you for sharing :)

Mary Stebbins Taitt said...

I really like the top image here.