The castle contains original stelae statues from the Lunigiana region dating back to the Copper Age.
It was originally constructed by the Fieschi family before being taken over and expanded by the Republic of Genoa in the late 13th century.
The site served as a strategic military outpost to counter the influence of the nearby Malaspina family.
Archaeological finds in the museum include a large collection of Roman epigraphs and inscriptions from the local area.
The castle underwent a significant military upgrade in 1607 to adapt to new artillery-based warfare technologies.
Castello San Giorgio is a medieval fortification overlooking the city of La Spezia from the Poggio hill. It currently houses the Ubaldo Formentini Civic Museum, which contains a collection of archaeological artifacts found in the surrounding Gulf of La Spezia and Lunigiana area. The structure incorporates parts of the 13th-century Genoese fortress built to defend the city and assert control over the local territory. Significant renovations in the 17th century by the Republic of Genoa added the bastions and defensive walls seen today. Visitors can explore the archaeological museum, which features Roman inscriptions, prehistoric stelae statues, and medieval artifacts. The castle grounds offer panoramic vantage points across the Gulf of Poets. Access to the structure is via a climb through the historic center of La Spezia.
The terrace overlooking the Gulf of La Spezia and the harbor.
Wear comfortable footwear as the path leading to the castle involves a steep incline on paved streets.
Visit the upper terraces for the best view of the La Spezia harbor and surrounding mountains.
Check the museum website for temporary exhibition updates, as the galleries frequently rotate local finds.
Do not attempt to drive to the entrance, as the historic district streets are extremely narrow and restricted to residents.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet volume within the museum galleries and refrain from touching the ancient stelae.
