Italy in Photos

Via del Prione

Via del Prione is one of the most iconic and lively streets in La Spezia, a city in the Liguria region of northern Italy. Stretching through the historic centre, it is a pedestrian thoroughfare that embodies the character of the city, combining history, culture, and daily life in a single urban corridor. For both residents and visitors, Via del Prione is much more than just a street: it is a vibrant artery where tradition meets modernity, and where the rhythm of the city can best be experienced on foot.

The origins of Via del Prione date back to the Middle Ages, when it formed part of the main route that connected the early nucleus of La Spezia to its surrounding areas. Its name is thought to derive from the word “prione,” meaning large stone, a reference to the slabs once used to pave the street. Over the centuries, the street has retained its importance, evolving alongside the city as La Spezia grew from a small settlement into a major naval and industrial hub during the nineteenth century. Today, it remains the central spine of the old town, linking Piazza Garibaldi with Piazza Sant’Agostino and other key urban landmarks.

Walking along Via del Prione offers a unique insight into the everyday life of La Spezia. The street is lined with elegant palazzi, many of which feature characteristic Ligurian architectural details such as painted façades, wrought-iron balconies, and decorative cornices. Ground floors are typically occupied by shops, boutiques, and artisan workshops, creating a lively commercial atmosphere. Fashion stores, bookstores, and cafés stand alongside traditional establishments, reflecting both the contemporary spirit of the city and its rooted traditions.

Cultural attractions also enrich the street. The Civic Museum of Amedeo Lia, housed in a former convent, lies just off Via del Prione and displays an impressive collection of paintings, manuscripts, and decorative arts. The proximity of cultural sites like this reinforces the street’s role as not only a commercial hub but also a space of learning and artistic appreciation.

For locals, Via del Prione is an everyday meeting place, while for visitors it serves as an introduction to La Spezia’s history and character. Its pedestrian-friendly design makes it ideal for strolling, shopping, or simply observing the flow of urban life. In this way, Via del Prione continues to embody the spirit of La Spezia: dynamic, welcoming, and deeply rooted in its heritage.