Italy in Photos

Fortezza del Priamar, Corso Giuseppe Mazzini, 17100 Savona SV, Italy (September 2020)

Savona

Savona, a vibrant city located on the northwestern coast of Italy in the Liguria region, is an essential part of the Italian Riviera, renowned for its rich history, thriving port, and stunning coastline. Situated between Genoa and the French border, Savona offers a perfect combination of maritime tradition, historical treasures, and modern urban life. It is a city that has long been tied to the sea, from its ancient Roman origins through its significant role as a naval power during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Today, Savona continues to be an important commercial and tourist port, with a charming blend of old-world beauty and contemporary vibrancy. One of the city’s defining features is its port, Porto di Savona, which has shaped the city’s identity for centuries. The port is not only a major hub for commercial shipping but also serves as a key stop for Mediterranean cruise ships. As visitors disembark, they are greeted by a city rich in art, history, and culture. The old port area, known as the Darsena, has been revitalized with modern cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering a pleasant place to stroll while enjoying views of the marina filled with yachts and fishing boats. Savona’s strong maritime heritage is visible in every corner of the city, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in naval history and seafaring traditions. Savona’s historical and cultural heart lies in its medieval old town, which is characterized by narrow, winding streets, ancient buildings, and important landmarks. One of the city’s most notable attractions is the Priamar Fortress, a massive 16th-century stronghold overlooking the sea. Built by the Genoese to defend against attacks, the fortress has since been transformed into a cultural centre, housing museums, art exhibitions, and hosting outdoor performances. The views from the fortress are stunning, offering a panoramic perspective of the city and the Ligurian coastline. Another significant site is the Cappella Sistina di Savona (Sistine Chapel of Savona), a beautiful chapel commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV in the 15th century. This exquisite building is an architectural jewel, with stunning frescoes and intricate decorations that showcase the artistic talent of the Renaissance era. It is not as famous as the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, but it shares the same papal origins, and its intricate beauty makes it one of the most remarkable attractions in Savona. Adjacent to the chapel is Savona Cathedral, a fine example of Baroque architecture, which houses impressive works of art and serves as the city’s religious centrepiece.

In addition to its historical landmarks, Savona offers an inviting atmosphere for those looking to experience the local lifestyle. The city is known for its vibrant markets, where fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Ligurian foods are sold. Visitors can enjoy the region’s famous cuisine, including farinata, (a savoury chickpea pancake) and focaccia bread, in one of the many trattorias and restaurants that line the city streets. Savona’s food scene reflects the region’s emphasis on simple, fresh ingredients and coastal flavours. Savona also boasts beautiful beaches, making it an ideal destination for seaside relaxation. The nearby Spiaggia delle Fornaci is one of the most popular, offering a sandy stretch of coastline with clear blue waters, perfect for sunbathing or swimming. The surrounding hills, covered in olive groves and vineyards, provide scenic hiking trails for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the Ligurian countryside. Finally, Savona’s central location on the Riviera di Ponente makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider region. From the bustling streets of Genoa to the colourful villages of the Cinque Terre, and even the glamorous French Riviera, Savona offers easy access to some of Italy’s most beautiful coastal destinations. Savona is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern charm. From its powerful fortress and historic chapels to its thriving port and relaxing beaches, Savona is a place where tradition meets the present. Its combination of maritime heritage, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty makes it a unique and fascinating destination on the Italian Riviera, ideal for travellers looking to experience both the history and the allure of the Mediterranean.

Via A. Manzoni, 17100 Savona SV, Italy (September 2020)

Via Alessandro Manzoni is a lively street located in the heart of Savona, a coastal city in the Liguria region of Italy. Named after the famous 19th-century Italian poet and novelist Alessandro Manzoni, whose literary works and ideals have left a profound influence on Italian culture, the street reflects both the traditional charm of Savona and the dynamic energy of a modern Italian city. Stretching through the historical centre, Via Manzoni is bordered by a blend of architectural styles, quaint shops, cozy cafes, and historic landmarks, embodying the essence of everyday life in this beautiful Mediterranean city. Savona itself is steeped in history, dating back to Roman times and flourishing in the Middle Ages as a maritime and trading power. Positioned along the Ligurian Riviera, Savona was strategically important and, over time, became known for its shipbuilding industry and thriving commerce. The city’s long history is visible in its rich architectural heritage, which includes medieval towers, Renaissance palaces, and baroque churches. Via Manzoni is woven into this historic tapestry, serving as both a thoroughfare and a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Via Manzoni is particularly popular for its accessibility and its proximity to many of Savona’s major attractions. Just a short walk from the street, visitors can explore the Priamar Fortress, a monumental fortress dating back to the 16th century that offers panoramic views of the city and the Ligurian Sea. This fortress, built by the Genoese to assert control over Savona, is now an emblem of the city’s resilience and historical importance. The fortress complex houses a museum and cultural spaces that frequently host exhibitions, performances, and other events, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and art lovers.

Close to Via Manzoni, the Cathedral of Nostra Signora Assunta stands as another architectural highlight. Originally built in the Middle Ages and later reconstructed in baroque style, the cathedral is an important religious and cultural site, adorned with beautiful frescoes and intricate stone carvings. The cathedral’s adjacent Sistine Chapel, commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV, is one of only two Sistine Chapels in the world, the other being in Vatican City. This unique and relatively lesser-known chapel offers a fascinating glimpse into Renaissance art and spirituality, adding to the historical allure of Savona’s city centre. Via Manzoni’s vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by its numerous boutiques, cafes, and artisan shops, where visitors can experience Savona’s local flavours and craftsmanship. Small family-run delis offer traditional Ligurian specialties such as focaccia, pesto, and farinata, a savoury chickpea pancake unique to the region. In addition to food, Via Manzoni features several artisan shops selling handmade jewelry, ceramics, and other locally crafted items, which reflect the city’s creative spirit and pride in artisanal traditions. Throughout the year, Via Manzoni and its surrounding streets come alive with events and festivities that showcase the city’s heritage. The annual Palio of Savona, a historical reenactment, brings medieval pageantry and parades to the streets, celebrating the city’s history with colour and enthusiasm. Via Manzoni often becomes a central point for locals gathering to participate in these celebrations, embodying Savona’s sense of community and continuity. Via Alessandro Manzoni is more than just a street; it is a pathway through Savona’s layered history and lively present. Its mix of historical proximity, bustling local life, and access to cultural landmarks makes it an essential stop for anyone looking to experience the authentic charm of this Ligurian city.

Photo Gallery of  Walk 1 –  Piazza Pippo Rebagliati  to Parrocchia Dei Ss. Giovanni Battista E Andrea,  Via A. Mistrangelo
Approximately 1.16 km – 0.72 miles

The walk starts in Piazza Pippo Rebagliati – Via Calata Pietro Sbarbaro – Piazza del Brandale – Via degli Orefici – Vicolo Sacco – Via Pia – Vico del Marmo – Via Ambrogio Aonzo – Via Santa Maria Maggiore – Piazza Sisto IV – Corso Italia – Piazza Sisto IV – Via A. Manzoni – Via Pietro Paleocapa – Via A Ü Fossu – Piazza Armando Diaz – Via A. Mistrangelo – Parrocchia Dei Ss. Giovanni Battista E Andrea,  Via A. Mistrangelo

Photo Gallery of  Walk 2 – Via Pietro Paleocapa to Via Aurelia
Approximately 1.03 km – 0..64 miles

The walk starts in Via Pietro Paleocapa – Via Pia – Vico della Mandorla – Via Ambrogio Aonzo – Piazza Del Duomo – Via Ambrogio Aonzo – Vico della Mandorla – Via Pia – Via Pietro Paleocapa – Piazza dei Consoli – Sant’Andrea Apostolo, Piazza dei Consoli – Via Aurelia – Molo Marinai d’Italia – Via Aurelia

Photo Gallery of  Walk 3 –  Via Calata Pietro Sbarbaro to Corso Giuseppe Mazzini
Approximately 1.65 km – 1.02 miles

The walk starts in Via Calata Pietro Sbarbaro – Corso Giuseppe Mazzini – Via Dante Alighieri – Piazza, Piazzale Eroe dei Due Mondi – Passegiata Walter Tobagi – Piazzale Eroe dei Due Mondi – Corso Giuseppe Mazzini – Via XX Settembre – Corso Giuseppe Mazzini

Photo Gallery of Fortezza del Priamar