PANEL: LIVORNO: FREE PORT OF CULTURES AND TRADE
10/07/2025 08:30 - 15:00
HALL: Lecture Hall 30

Proponent: Di Giovanna S., Papini S.

Chair: Di Giovanna S., Papini S.

Speaker: Di Giovanna S., Ferraro F., Kerem Y., Litrico L., Papini S., Quartirolo J.P., Zocco V.

Livorno, the coastal city in Tuscany, Italy, has long been a hub of cultural and economic exchange, shaped profoundly by its unique history and policies. Established in the late 16th century as a free port, Livorno owes much of its distinctive character to the Livornine laws, which played a pivotal role in transforming Livorno from a modest fishing village into a flourishing cosmopolitan center.
The Livornine laws granted religious and economic freedoms, offering protection and incentives to merchants, artisans, and individuals fleeing persecution. Jews, Armenians, Greeks, Protestants, and others found refuge and opportunities in Livorno. These edicts guaranteed freedom of worship, exemption from certain taxes, and immunity from prosecution for debts incurred elsewhere. Such provisions attracted a diverse population, establishing Livorno as a haven and a thriving port of entry for those seeking a fresh start.
Over the centuries, Livorno has become a meeting place for religions and cultures. This coexistence made Livorno a model of tolerance and a precursor to modern multicultural societies. The city's open spirit, rooted in the Livornine laws and free port policies, continues to define its identity, making Livorno a testament to the power of inclusivity and trade in shaping human history.
The goal of this panel is to promote an in-depth exploration of case studies centered on Livorno. By delving into the city's historical context, we seek to illuminate key moments of interaction, conflict, departure, and arrival throughout the centuries. We welcome proposals that adopt a multidisciplinary approach, particularly from emerging scholars, and research that engages individuals from Livorno who are acting beyond the city's borders. Additionally, we highly value innovative interpretations of new sources.

933.4
   
933.5
   
THE LIVORNO ZIONIST CONFERENCE

Ferraro F. *

Hebrew University of Jerusalem ~ Jerusalem ~ Israel
933.6
   
THE MULTITUDE OF GRANA RABBIS IN TUNIS

Kerem Y. *

Hebrew Univeristy/Bar Ilan University ~ Jerusalem/Ramat Gan ~ Israel
933.7
   
THE RABBINATE OF LIVORNO ANNULS A MARRIAGE

Quartirolo J.P. *

Università di Modena e di Reggio Emilia ~ Modena ~ Italy