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Piazza del Canto, 18039 Ventimiglia IM, Italy (August 2020)
Ventimiglia
Ventimiglia, a charming coastal town located in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy, is a place where history, culture, and nature converge. Situated just 8 kilometres from the French border and overlooking the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Ventimiglia has long been a crossroads for various civilizations. The town’s strategic position along the Riviera dei Fiori (Riviera of Flowers) has made it an important cultural and trading hub since ancient times, attracting settlers from the Ligurians and Romans to medieval aristocrats and modern tourists. Divided into two distinct parts, Ventimiglia Alta (the old town) and Ventimiglia Nuova (the newer area), the town offers visitors a unique blend of past and present. The old town, perched on a hill above the Roya River, is a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and centuries-old churches. Here, you can find the remains of the town’s ancient Roman history, including the Porta Marina, a well-preserved Roman gate, and the ruins of the Roman theatre, a testament to the town’s significance during the Roman Empire. Ventimiglia’s history stretches back over two millennia, with traces of human activity dating as far back as the Paleolithic era. However, it was the Roman period that left a lasting imprint on the town. Known as Albintimilium during Roman times, Ventimiglia became an important trading post and military stronghold due to its proximity to both the Mediterranean Sea and the Via Julia Augusta, a major Roman road that connected Italy to the rest of the empire. The Roman ruins scattered across the town serve as a reminder of its long-standing role as a gateway between Italy and the broader Mediterranean world.
In addition to its historical appeal, Ventimiglia is also known for its vibrant markets, particularly the famous Friday market. Drawing visitors from Italy and France alike, the market is held along the waterfront and offers everything from fresh local produce and Italian delicacies to clothing, leather goods, and souvenirs. The lively atmosphere and the mix of Italian and French vendors reflect Ventimiglia’s position at the cultural crossroads between the two countries. The town is also a popular destination for nature lovers. Nestled between the sea and the rugged Maritime Alps, Ventimiglia offers stunning landscapes, from its pebbled beaches to the lush green hills that rise behind the town. The Giardini Botanici Hanbury (Hanbury Botanical Gardens), located just a few kilometres outside Ventimiglia, are a must-visit for plant enthusiasts. These gardens, established in the 19th century, showcase an impressive collection of Mediterranean, subtropical, and exotic plants, all set within the picturesque surroundings of the Ligurian coast. Ventimiglia’s coastal location also makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby towns and attractions along the Italian and French Rivieras. The French town of Menton is just a short drive away, and the glitzy cities of Monaco and Nice are easily accessible by train. In the other direction, the picturesque Ligurian villages of Bordighera and Sanremo offer more opportunities to explore the region’s cultural and natural beauty. In recent years, Ventimiglia has faced new challenges as a point of transit for migrants attempting to cross from Italy into France, bringing a complex layer of modernity to its ancient status as a border town. Nevertheless, Ventimiglia remains a town that is rich in tradition, offering visitors a peaceful escape into its historical sites, natural beauty, and vibrant local life. Ventimiglia is a town where the past and present exist side by side. Its ancient ruins, bustling markets, and breathtaking landscapes make it a hidden gem along the Italian Riviera. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean sun, Ventimiglia offers a little bit of everything.
Worth a Visit
The Parrocchia Cattedrale di Ventimiglia, located in Piazza Cattedrale in Ventimiglia, Italy, stands as a remarkable testament to the city’s rich religious and cultural heritage. This cathedral, dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, has long been a spiritual and communal heart for locals, offering a place of worship, reflection, and celebration of sacred traditions. Its architecture reflects centuries of history, blending Romanesque and Baroque influences, with intricate details that captivate visitors and parishioners alike. Inside, the cathedral houses beautiful artworks, frescoes, and religious relics, each telling a story of faith and devotion. Beyond its architectural and artistic significance, the cathedral plays an active role in the community, hosting liturgical services, religious festivals, and cultural events. Its central location in Ventimiglia makes it not only a spiritual landmark but also a focal point for exploring the city’s historical and cultural treasures, inviting both worshippers and tourists to experience its serene and inspiring atmosphere.
The Oratory of San Secondo, known as “dei Neri,” is a fascinating place of worship located on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi in Ventimiglia Alta, in the province of Imperia. Built in 1650 by the Confraternity of Mercy, the building stands on land donated by the nobleman Antonio Porro. The name “dei Neri” derives from the colour of the cloaks worn by the brothers, a symbol of humility and anonymity in their social commitment. he oratory features a Baroque architectural style, with interiors decorated with frescoes by the Genoese painter Serra, depicting scenes from the Old Testament. The high altar, created in 1678 by master Giacinto Aycardo, is made of black and white marble, while the statue of San Secondo, placed above the altar, is a highly valuable marble work. In 2011, the oratory was restored and reopened for worship, once again becoming a point of reference for the community and an important testimony to Ventimiglia’s religious and artistic history.
Piazza Colletta is a charming square nestled in the historic upper town of Ventimiglia, Italy. Serving as a central gathering place, it offers a tranquil setting surrounded by medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. The square is anchored by the Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo, a 10th-century Romanesque church that stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and architectural heritage. Nearby, visitors can explore other significant landmarks, including the Chiesa di San Secondo and the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, each contributing to the area’s cultural tapestry. Piazza Colletta is not only a place of historical interest but also a venue for local events and festivals, making it a vibrant spot for both residents and tourists to experience the essence of Ventimiglia.
Piazza Colletta is a charming square nestled in the historic upper town of Ventimiglia, Italy. Serving as a central gathering place, it offers a tranquil setting surrounded by medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. The square is anchored by the Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo, a 10th-century Romanesque church that stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and architectural heritage. Nearby, visitors can explore other significant landmarks, including the Chiesa di San Secondo and the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, each contributing to the area’s cultural tapestry. Piazza Colletta is not only a place of historical interest but also a venue for local events and festivals, making it a vibrant spot for both residents and tourists to experience the essence of Ventimiglia.
Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Piazza della Costituente to Piazza del Canto
Approximately 0.46 km – 0.29 miles
The walk starts in Piazza della Costituente – Via Falerina – Piazza Cattedrale – Parrocchia Cattedrale di Ventimiglia, Piazza Cattedrale – Via Porta Nuova – Via Giuseppe Garibaldi – Oratorio di San Secondo detto “dei neri”, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi – Via Giuseppe Garibaldi – Piazza del Canto
Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Via Piemonte to Piazza della Fontana
Approximately 0.58 km – 0.36 miles
The walk starts in Via Piemonte – Piazza Colletta – Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo, Piazza Colletta – Piazza Colletta – Via Appio – Vico Saonese – Centro Storico – Vico della Torre – Piazza Porta Nizza – Via Giuseppe Garibaldi – Piazza della Fontana
Photo Gallery of Walk 3 – Piazza della Costituente to Lungo Roya Rossi / Piazza della Costituente
Approximately 2.25km – 1.40 miles
The walk starts in Piazza della Costituente – Via Aurelia – Lungo Roya Rossi – Largo Torino – Via Cavour – Piazza XX Settembre – Via Cavour – Piazza Falcone Borsellino – Mercato Comunale, Via Aprosio – Via della Repubblica – Giardini Pubblici – Lungo Roia Gerolamo Rossi – Passeggiata Guglielmo Oberdan -Via Milite Ignoto – Via Ernesto Chiappori – Via Roma – Lungo Roya Rossi – Piazza della Costituente
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