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Salita del Grillo, 17024 Finale Ligure SV, Italy (September 2020)
Finale Ligure
Finale Ligure is a charming coastal town in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy, known for its stunning Mediterranean scenery, rich history, and vibrant outdoor activities. Nestled between the Ligurian Sea and the rolling hills of the Apennine mountains, this picturesque destination offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, attracting visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. The town is part of the Riviera di Ponente, the western stretch of the Italian Riviera, and boasts a mild climate year-round, making it a popular holiday destination. Finale Ligure is comprised of several smaller villages, each with its own distinct character. These include Finalmarina, with its long sandy beaches and elegant promenade; Finalborgo, a medieval walled village that feels like a journey back in time; and Finalpia, a more tranquil area known for its Benedictine monastery and peaceful ambiance. One of the most compelling features of Finale Ligure is the seamless blend of historical architecture and natural landscapes. The area’s historical roots stretch back to ancient times, with evidence of Roman and medieval settlements still visible today. In Finalborgo, one of Italy’s “Most Beautiful Villages” (Borghi più belli d’Italia), narrow cobblestone streets wind past Gothic and Renaissance buildings, revealing centuries-old churches and hidden courtyards. The village’s impressive defensive walls and the Castel Gavone, a fortress that once protected the town, speak to the region’s strategic importance in the past. Equally captivating is the surrounding natural environment. Finale Ligure is cradled by limestone cliffs, lush valleys, and pristine beaches, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is internationally renowned for its rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking trails, which cater to all levels of ability. The Finale Outdoor Region, as it’s commonly called, has become a mecca for climbers, with hundreds of routes available in the rugged cliffs that overlook the sea. For bikers, the extensive network of trails offers scenic rides through forests and coastal paths, while hikers can explore ancient paths that connect picturesque hamlets and offer breathtaking panoramic views.
The coastal stretch of Finale Ligure is equally inviting, with its golden sandy beaches and crystalline waters. Finalmarina, the most modern part of town, is home to a lively beachfront that draws both locals and tourists. The long promenade, lined with palm trees, is perfect for leisurely strolls, and the beach clubs offer a relaxing spot to enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular along the coast, adding to the vibrant seaside culture. Beyond its natural and historical allure, Finale Ligure is also known for its cultural events and delicious local cuisine. Throughout the year, the town hosts festivals celebrating everything from music and art to medieval reenactments in Finalborgo. These events offer a glimpse into the town’s deep-rooted traditions and create a lively atmosphere for visitors. In terms of food, the Ligurian cuisine served in Finale Ligure is a highlight. Traditional dishes feature fresh seafood, fragrant herbs, and locally sourced olive oil. Specialties like trofie al pesto, focaccia, and farinata are must-try items, while seaside restaurants offer spectacular views along with mouthwatering meals. Finale Ligure’s blend of history, outdoor activities, seaside relaxation, and cultural vibrancy make it a unique and inviting destination in the heart of the Italian Riviera.
Worth a Visit
The Collegiate Church of San Giovanni Battista, nestled in the coastal district of Finale Marina in Finale Ligure, stands as a magnificent embodiment of Ligurian Baroque artistry and spiritual heritage. Construction began in 1619 to replace a declining medieval parish and remained a monumental community endeavour, finally concluding in 1674 and consecrated in 1675. Though once misattributed to Gian Lorenzo Bernini, later scholarly research vindicated the talents of local craftsmen following Neapolitan Baroque influences. In 1762, the Baroque façade was enhanced by architect Nicola Barella, also responsible for the elegant 24-meter dome completed in 1780 with the help of Genoese artists Simone Cantoni and Emanuele Andrea Tagliafichi. Sculptor Bartolomeo Bagutti contributed statues of Saint John the Baptist, Saints Peter and Paul, as well as allegories of Hope and Faith, enriching the façade with rich symbolic artistry.
For more information about the
San Giovanni Battista, click the image.
Located in the historic heart of Ferrara, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, today officially Piazza della Repubblica, erves as a living chronicle of the city’s evolving architectural and civic identity. Originally the site of the ducal macelleria (meat market), this space transitioned into a public square at the close of the 19th century, reflecting Ferrara’s gradual shift from commerce to communal gathering. In 1927, the square gained its previous name when the statue of King Victor Emmanuel II, Italy’s first monarch, was relocated here from the Cathedral Square. This monument brought a renewed sense of national pride to the area, transforming its ambiance.
For more information about the
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, click the image.
Standing proudly in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II in Finale Marina, the Arco di Margherita di Spagna (Arch of Margaret of Spain) is one of Finale Ligure’s most recognisable landmarks and a striking relic of its Baroque past. Erected in 1666, the arch was commissioned to commemorate the passage of Infanta Margaret Theresa of Spain, daughter of King Philip IV, through the town on her journey to Vienna to marry Emperor Leopold I of Austria. This politically significant marriage symbolised the union between two great European dynasties, the Habsburgs of Austria and the Spanish branch of the same house At the time, Finale Ligure was part of the Marquisate of Finale, under Spanish rule. The Governor, Diego Alvarado, ordered the construction of the arch to both honour the royal bride and underscore Spain’s presence and prestige in the region.
For more information about the
Arco di Margherita di Spagna, click the image.
Photo Gallery of Walk – Salita del Grilloto Piazza Cavour
Approximately 1.24 km – 0.77 miles
The walk starts in Salita del Grillo – Via Torino – Via Gian Lorenzo Bernini – Via Avvocato Emanuele Rossi – San Giovanni Battista – Via Gian Lorenzo Bernini – Via Avvocato Emanuele Rossi – Via Giuseppe Garibaldi – Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II – Via Concezione – Lungomare Augusto Migliorini – Via S. Pietro – Vico Tubino – Via Cristoforo Colombo – Via Aurelia – Piazza Cavour – Lungomare Augusto Migliorini – Piazza Cavour
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