The Amerigo Vespucci, a historic sailing ship and training vessel of the Italian Navy, has arrived in the Port of Los Angeles for a week-long visit open to the public. With 26 traditional canvas sails, the ship has been in continuous operation since its launch in 1931, except during World War II.
Built in 1930, the ship also features an Italian Village, where visitors can experience the Italian atmosphere through art, exhibitions, music and cuisine.
From July 3 to 8, guests can sail aboard the Amerigo Vespucci every day, which organizers call “the most beautiful ship in the world” and which has been the custodian of the oldest naval and maritime traditions for more than 90 years.
Villagio Italia is open daily from 9am to 10pm from July 3rd to 8th and features approximately 130,000 square feet of exhibit space. There’s plenty to learn, observe, eat and enjoy, including photography, history and educational exhibits, a display of the historic Olympic Torch from the Olympic Games held in Italy, art, film screenings, food tastings and cooking classes.
Every evening at 8:09 pm there is a ceremony in which the Amerigo Vespucci ship’s flag is lowered from the pier.
On July 4 at 4 p.m., July 6 at 7:15 p.m. and July 8 at 7 p.m., the Italian Air Force’s national acrobatic team, the Frecce Tricolori, will fly directly above Mount Vespucci and perform an air show over Los Angeles.
After Los Angeles, the Vespucci and Villaggio Italia will visit Tokyo from August 25th to 30th, before continuing on to other international stops.
For more information about the Amerigo Vespucci World Tour in Los Angeles, including the full schedule of events, please visit https://tourvespucci.it/en/.
The Amerigo Vespucci, a historic sailing and training ship of the Italian Navy, has arrived at the Port of Los Angeles. By Julie Sharp, KCAL News
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