Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi (Giuseppe Garibaldi Square), La Spezia

Giuseppe Garibaldi Square is a lively and modern square located just a short walk from the central train station. This bustling public space serves as a major intersection where five streets—Via del Prione, Via Fiume, Via Lazzaro Spallanzani, Via Garibaldi, and Via Torino—converge, making it a strategic point for both locals and visitors. Unlike the city’s older, more historic squares, Giuseppe Garibaldi Square features a contemporary design, with a distinctive modern fountain and sculpture placed at its center.

At the heart of the square is the Dialogue Fountain, an elegant and interactive monument designed by architects Antonio Leone and Cesarina Zanetti and sculpted by Viliano Tarabella. This abstract marble structure, made from white Carrara marble, was inaugurated in 2002 and serves as both an artistic installation and a functional meeting point for those passing through the area.

The sculpture consists of two interwoven sails, symbolizing movement and connection, which rise above the water while a central jet of water cascades down, enhancing its dynamic effect. The smooth marble balustrade encircling the fountain was designed to serve as a seating area, inviting people to rest and socialize in the open space. At night, the fountain is illuminated, casting a soft glow on the marble, which enhances its ethereal and luminous quality.

Beyond its architectural appeal, Giuseppe Garibaldi Square plays a vital role in La Spezia’s social and cultural life. The pedestrian-friendly layout makes it an inviting location for casual strolls, outdoor dining, and evening gatherings. Lined with cafés, restaurants, and small shops, the square offers a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine or simply take in the city's ambiance.