The Leopoldino aqueduct is one of the main attractions in Collesalvetti – the majestic structure, built in the 19th century, stretches from Colognole to Livorno, following an 18 km route.
The hike to the Colognole aqueduct is one of the most characteristic walks – a leisurely 3 km walk, suitable for both adults and children, on the trail of history. You can either walk or ride a mountain bike along this route through the woods of the Collesalvetti hills.
The route starts from the village of Colognole, an ancient Roman colony, at La Fociarella. From here, we follow the Livorno-Valle Benedetta-Colognole provincial road, which runs along the valley of the Morra stream.
After passing the fork for Gabbro, we turn right, following the unpaved lane (marked with a no-trespassing sign). We continue on our way and, after about 15 minutes, arrive at the ancient cisterns of the Leopoldine aqueduct.
Commissioned by Ferdinando II de’ Medici, the Leopoldino aqueduct is a monumental work of great architectural value, which supplied Livorno with water from 1816 to 1912. The imposing structures, which furrow the territory with, at times, vertiginous arches, now shrouded in vegetation, represent a natural setting of rare beauty – in Colognole, we find the best-preserved ilex grove of the Livorno hills.
From the Colognole aqueduct, you can either go back along the road or continue following the structure for another 15 km until you reach Livorno.
