The trial of the captain of the Costa Concordia cruise ship, which capsized off Italy's coast last year killing 32 people, was delayed just as it started yesterday because of a lawyers' strike.

The giant Concordia flipped on its side outside the Tuscan port of Giglio in January 2012 after it struck rocks on a manoeuvre that brought it too close to shore.

Captain Francesco Schettino, who left the ship before all its crew and passengers had been rescued, faces charges including multiple manslaughter and abandoning ship.

He arrived at the theatre where hearings are being held in the Tuscan town of Grosseto wearing a blue suit and sunglasses, declining to answer questions from reporters.

The trial was immediately postponed until July 17 because the lawyers involved in the case were taking part in the nationwide strike to protest at measures aimed at streamlining civil trials.

Lawyers, whose strike is due to last until July 16, are also angry at Justice Minister Anna Maria Cancellieri accusing them of blocking reforms.

The Concordia accident triggered a chaotic night-time evacuation of more than 4000 passengers and crew from the 290-metre-long ship, which is still on a rock shelf outside Giglio port.