Corso Aurelio Saffi, 18100 Imperia IM, Italy (August 2020)

Imperia

Nestled along the stunning Ligurian coastline, Imperia is a city that blends natural beauty, historical charm, and rich cultural traditions. Situated in the north-western region of Italy, in the province of Liguria, Imperia is part of the Italian Riviera, a stretch of coastline renowned for its picturesque scenery, vibrant towns, and serene beaches. Often overshadowed by more famous destinations like Genoa or Portofino, Imperia offers a quieter, yet equally captivating experience for travellers and residents alike. Its unique character stems from the union of two historic towns, Oneglia and Porto Maurizio, which were merged in the early twentieth century to form the modern city.

The geography of Imperia is one of its most striking features. The city is framed by gently rolling hills that extend down to the Ligurian Sea, creating a landscape that combines both maritime and inland charm. The coastline is dotted with sandy beaches, rocky promontories, and small coves that invite exploration. Inland, olive groves, vineyards, and aromatic gardens dominate the hillsides, producing the famous Ligurian olive oil and local wines that are central to the region’s culinary identity. The mild Mediterranean climate ensures warm summers and temperate winters, making Imperia an ideal location for both tourism and agriculture.

Historically, Imperia has been shaped by centuries of trade, maritime activity, and strategic importance. The town of Oneglia, which lies on the eastern side of the modern city, developed as a trading port, specializing in the production and export of olive oil. It has long been recognized for its shipbuilding industry, and its harbour remains an important economic hub. Porto Maurizio, on the western side, evolved as a religious and administrative centre, known for its churches, monasteries, and historic architecture. The blend of these two towns has given Imperia a diverse urban fabric, where historic churches, elegant villas, and modern residential areas coexist harmoniously.

Cultural heritage is another cornerstone of life in Imperia. The city is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and cultural institutions that preserve and celebrate its history. Among the most notable is the Olive Oil Museum, which showcases the long-standing tradition of olive cultivation in the region and the methods used to produce high-quality oil. Art enthusiasts can also enjoy the Museum of Ligurian Arts, which hosts exhibitions of local paintings, sculptures, and crafts. Throughout the year, Imperia organizes festivals, markets, and events that highlight its cultural and gastronomic richness, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic Italian traditions.

The culinary scene in Imperia reflects the bounty of its land and sea. Ligurian cuisine is famous for its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and Imperia is no exception. Seafood plays a central role, with dishes featuring anchovies, mussels, and other fish from the Ligurian Sea. Olive oil, a regional specialty, is generously used in cooking, enhancing both flavour and nutritional value. Pasta dishes, particularly those made with pesto, are a staple of the local diet, and traditional desserts provide a sweet conclusion to meals. Local markets brim with fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods, giving residents and visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the culinary traditions that have been passed down for generations.

In addition to its cultural and gastronomic offerings, Imperia is a city that encourages outdoor activities and appreciation of nature. The surrounding hills and coastline provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, and boating. Scenic trails lead through olive groves and vineyards, offering panoramic views of the sea and neighbouring villages. The beaches of Imperia, while more tranquil than those of larger resorts, provide sunbathing, swimming, and water sports in a serene environment. For those interested in maritime heritage, the harbour and marina offer a glimpse into the city’s ongoing connection to the sea.

Imperia’s appeal lies in its balance of tradition and modernity. While it retains the historical charm of its constituent towns, the city has embraced contemporary development, with modern infrastructure, shops, and recreational facilities. This combination of past and present allows Imperia to offer a complete experience, where visitors can explore historic streets, enjoy the natural environment, and participate in the daily life of a vibrant Italian community. Despite its relative obscurity compared to more famous Italian destinations, Imperia captures the essence of Ligurian life, providing a peaceful yet engaging environment that reflects the richness of its heritage and the beauty of its setting.

Imperia is a city that invites exploration and reflection. From its scenic coastline and rolling hills to its historical architecture and vibrant cultural scene, it represents a unique corner of Italy where tradition, nature, and modern life coexist harmoniously. Visitors are drawn to its serene beaches, fragrant olive groves, and authentic culinary experiences, all of which create a distinctive sense of place. Imperia stands as a testament to the charm of the Italian Riviera, offering a window into the lifestyle, history, and culture of Liguria that is both welcoming and memorable.

Worth a Visit

Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Salita Ardoino to Piazza Nino Bixio
Approximately 1.42 km – 0.88 miles

The walk starts in Salita Ardoino – Via Ospedale – Via Giacomo Agnesi – salita Frati Minimi – Via Aurelia – Via del Collegio – Via Palestro – Piazza Goito – Via Ludovico Maresca – Via Bormano – Calata Giovanni Battista Cuneo – Piazza Nino Bixio -Via Spianata Borgo Peri – Via Angiolo Silvio Novaro – Walk back to Piazza Nino Bixio

Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Calata Giovanni Battista Cuneo to Via Scarincio
Approximately 3.93 km – 2.44 miles

The walk starts in Calata Giovanni Battista Cuneo – Piazza E.De Amicis – Via Generale Manuel Belgrano – Via de Sonnaz – Lungomare Amerigo Vespucci – Lungomare Marinai d’Italia – Molo San Lazzaro – Porto Di Imperia, Calata Anselmi – Via Scarincio

Photo Gallery of Walk 3 – Via Rambaldo to Viale Giacomo Matteotti
Approximately 1.43 km – 0.89 miles

The walk starts in Via Rambaldo – Via Giuseppe Pirinoli – Via Sebastiano Caboto – Viale Giacomo Matteotti – Via Felice Cascione – Via XX Settembre – Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi – Corso Aurelio Saffi – Piazza Miradore – Via Gaetano Cantone – Piazza Duomo – Via Sebastiano Caboto – Via S. Maurizio – Via Felice Cascione – Viale Giacomo Matteotti

Photo Gallery of Walk 4 – Piazza Dante to Via Giovanni Amendola
Approximately 0.78 km – 0.48 miles

The walk starts in Piazza Dante – Via Silvio Bonfante – Via Dietro Il Duomo – Via Giuseppe Parini – Via Don Abbo il Santo – Piazza Gioacchino Rossini – Salita Ardoino – Via Ospedale – Via M. Giuseppe Pira – Via Ospedale – Via S. Giovanni -Piazza S. Giovanni – Via S. Giovanni – Mercato Andrea Doria, Via S. Giovanni – Via Ludovico Maresca – Piazza Goito -Via Santa Elisabetta – Via Giovanni Amendola – Chiesa Padri Minimi, Salita Frati Minimi – Via Giovanni Amendola