The Civic Theater of La Spezia

The Civic Theater is the most important theatrical structure in La Spezia and is the third largest theater in Liguria by size. It is located in the historic center of the city, in Piazza Mentana. It was the first theater to be built in La Spezia: in fact, the “San Carlo,” considered the oldest in the city, had been converted from the deconsecrated church of the same name during the period of the Ligurian Republic, and the building was used as a public school and later as a theater.

At the beginning of the 19th century, with the progressive development of the city, the construction of a new theater became necessary to meet the needs of a forming new society. The inauguration took place on July 18, 1846. The Civic Theater soon became a focal point not only for the arts, but also for social and political gatherings. Indeed, for a period, the Civic Theater housed the City Council and on the first floor also hosted the “Circolo Cittadino” and the “Civic Casino.”
Furthermore, in 1873, the first core of the Civic Museum was housed on the ground floor of the Theater, originating from a donation of rare shells and crustaceans.

The entire building was completely renovated at the beginning of the 20th century, taking on its current appearance. The Five statues (Music, Tragedy, Plastic Arts, the Gulf, and the City of La Spezia) that decorated the facade were removed and placed in the public gardens. The hall’s decoration is very simple, devoid of stucco and heavy ornamentation. The dome is openable and decorated with an ornamental band featuring zodiac symbols.

For a long time after the war, the Civic Theater lost its role as the main theatrical building of the city and was used only as a cinema for many years. Closed for restoration from 1989 until 1995, today the Civic Theater has returned to its role as a cultural hub of the city, also hosting the important La Spezia International Jazz Festival.

Staying at the Downtown Blue Apartment, you will have the opportunity to participate in the numerous cultural events, both winter and summer, offered by the Civic Theater of La Spezia.