Chiesa di San Ferdinando (Church of San Ferdinando), Livorno

The Church of San Ferdinando is one of Livorno's key historical and artistic landmarks. Situated in the New Venice (Venezia Nuova) district, it is a prime example of early 18th-century Baroque architecture. Construction began in 1707, following the designs of Giovan Battista Foggini, and was completed almost a decade later under Giovanni del Fantasia. The church was dedicated to San Ferdinando Re in honor of Prince Ferdinando, son of Grand Duke Cosimo III, who played a significant role in supporting its construction.

During World War II, the church sustained significant damage from Allied bombings, which particularly affected the chapels and bell tower, both of which were rebuilt later. The church's façade remains incomplete, with the original marble cladding never added, giving it a modest, unfinished appearance. The western side of the building, near the rebuilt bell tower, is adjacent to the Sant'Anna school, which remains unfinished on the outside as well.

The interior, however, showcases the grandeur of Baroque design, with a Latin cross layout. The central nave, covered by a barrel vault, leads to a dome at the intersection of the nave and transept, concealed from the outside by an octagonal lantern. The church's chapels, adorned with fine marble, feature numerous altars. The most notable artwork is Giovanni Baratta's sculptural group The Freed Slaves, symbolizing the Trinitarians' mission, where an angel is depicted freeing two captives. The marble floor is another highlight, featuring tombstones, including those of French origin. Behind the main altar, under Baratta’s grand sculpture, lies the tomb of benefactor Francesco Terriesi, who, along with Prince Ferdinando, was a key patron of the church’s construction.