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Via Visconti, 19018 Vernazza SP, Italy (May 2022)
Vernazza
Vasto, a picturesque town located on Italy’s Adriatic coast, in the southern part of the Abruzzo region. Rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, Vasto offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day attractions. This coastal town, perched on a hill overlooking the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, ancient architecture, and vibrant local traditions, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking an authentic Italian experience. Vasto’s roots stretch back thousands of years. Originally known as Histonium during the Roman era, the town has a rich historical background shaped by various civilizations, including the Romans, Lombards, and Normans. Evidence of its Roman past can be seen in the remnants of baths, amphitheatres, and mosaics scattered around the town. Throughout the Middle Ages, Vasto grew in prominence under various rulers, leaving a tapestry of architectural styles and monuments, including the Castello Caldoresco, a fortress built in the 15th century, and the beautiful Palazzo d’Avalos, which stands as a symbol of the town’s aristocratic past. The historic centre of Vasto is a delightful maze of narrow, winding streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares. One of the main highlights is Piazza Rossetti, named after the Italian poet and patriot Gabriele Rossetti, a native of Vasto. The square is a bustling hub surrounded by impressive buildings, including the Cathedral of San Giuseppe, with its baroque and neoclassical influences.The Palazzo d’Avalos, a Renaissance palace that once housed the ruling d’Avalos family, is another notable landmark. Today, it serves as a museum complex, showcasing art, archaeological finds, and local history. Visitors can explore its beautifully manicured gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the town and sea below.
Vasto is as famous for its natural beauty as it is for its historical landmarks. The town boasts several breathtaking beaches, most notably the Spiaggia di Vasto Marina, a long stretch of golden sand that attracts both locals and tourists alike. The warm, crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. For nature lovers, Vasto is also the gateway to the nearby Punta Aderci Nature Reserve, one of Abruzzo’s most spectacular coastal areas. The reserve offers a mix of rugged cliffs, pebble coves, and pristine beaches, all set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush vegetation. Hiking trails within the reserve provide stunning views of the coastline, while the more adventurous can take part in activities such as cycling, snorkelling, or birdwatching. No introduction to Vasto would be complete without mentioning its culinary delights. The local cuisine, like much of Italy, is rooted in tradition and fresh ingredients. Given its coastal location, seafood features prominently on most menus. One must-try dish is brodetto alla Vastese, a hearty fish stew made with a variety of local seafood and flavoured with tomatoes, garlic, and spices. Vasto’s proximity to the fertile Abruzzo countryside also means that its dishes are complemented by local vegetables, olive oil, and wines, particularly the region’s famed Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and Trebbiano wines. Throughout the year, Vasto celebrates its rich cultural traditions with a range of festivals and events. The most significant of these is the Festa di San Michele, held annually in late September in honour of the town’s patron saint, Saint Michael the Archangel. This lively celebration includes processions, music, and fireworks, drawing both locals and visitors to partake in the festivities. Vasto is a town that effortlessly combines the best of Italy: history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious food. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, lounging on sun-drenched beaches, or enjoying a plate of fresh seafood, Vasto offers a quintessentially Italian experience in a serene and picturesque setting.
Worth a Visit
Via Visconti in Vernazza is one of the central streets of this enchanting Cinque Terre village, a place where history, culture, and daily life meet in a harmonious blend. Like many streets in Vernazza, it is narrow, winding, and full of character, reflecting the medieval layout of the town, which developed between the sea and the steep surrounding hills. Walking along Via Visconti offers an authentic glimpse into the spirit of Vernazza, with its pastel-coloured houses, small shops, and the constant hum of both locals and visitors moving through its lively spaces. The street takes its name from the Visconti family, one of the noble families of Italy, whose influence extended across regions during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. While their connection to Vernazza is not as direct as in larger cities, the dedication of the street to their name reflects the prestige and historical ties that shaped Liguria over the centuries.
Piazza Guglielmo Marconi is the heart and soul of Vernazza, one of the most iconic villages of the Cinque Terre in Liguria, Italy. Nestled at the edge of the harbour and opening directly onto the sea, this square is not only the physical centre of the town but also its cultural and social stage. Named after Guglielmo Marconi, the Italian inventor and pioneer of wireless telegraphy, the piazza reflects both the modern spirit of innovation and the timeless traditions of coastal Liguria. For visitors, it is often the first memorable sight upon reaching Vernazza, a place where pastel-coloured houses, lively cafés, and the vast blue of the Mediterranean come together in a harmonious tableau. Historically, squares in Ligurian villages have always been gathering spaces, where fishermen brought in their daily catch, where markets animated the streets, and where the community celebrated religious and civic events. Piazza Guglielmo Marconi continues this legacy today
Photo Gallery of Walk – Via Roma to Via Roma
Approximately 0.58 km – 0.36 miles
The walk starts at Via Roma – Via Visconti – Piazza Guglielmo Marconi – Via Visconti – Walk back along Via Visconti to Via Roma
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