Italy in Photos

Via Aldo Moro, 19025 Portovenere, Italy (September 2018)

Porto Venere

Porto Venere, a picturesque seaside village located on the Ligurian coast of Italy, is a treasure trove of history, natural beauty, and Mediterranean charm. Nestled between the famous Cinque Terre and the bustling city of La Spezia, this small but enchanting town often remains under the radar of many tourists. However, those who do visit quickly discover its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant coastal allure. The combination of dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with colourful houses makes Porto Venere one of Italy’s most captivating coastal destinations. Founded by the Romans, Porto Venere has a history that stretches back over two millennia. Its name, derived from “Portus Veneris” (Port of Venus), reflects the town’s mythological connection to Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty. According to legend, the town was named after a temple dedicated to Venus that once stood on the rocky promontory where the striking Church of San Pietro now stands. The church, built in the 13th century in Gothic and Romanesque styles, is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Perched high on a cliff overlooking the sea, its black-and-white striped façade and panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea make it a must-visit site for travellers. In addition to San Pietro, Porto Venere is home to another architectural site, the Doria Castle, which dominates the town from its hilltop location. This imposing fortress, built in the 12th century by the powerful Doria family of Genoa, reflects the town’s strategic importance throughout history. The castle offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Poets (Golfo dei Poeti), a name given to the gulf in honour of the many writers and artists who have found inspiration in its beauty, including Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, and D.H. Lawrence. Visitors can walk through the castle’s ancient walls and explore its history while enjoying the sweeping vistas of the rugged coastline and surrounding islands.

One of Porto Venere’s greatest attractions is its natural surroundings, particularly the Palmaria Island and the nearby Tino and Tinetto islands, all part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that also includes the Cinque Terre. These islands offer hiking opportunities, secluded beaches, and unspoiled landscapes teeming with Mediterranean flora and fauna. Palmaria Island, the largest of the three, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails that lead to dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and historic fortifications. The pristine waters around the islands are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, allowing visitors to explore the rich marine life and underwater caves that dot the coastline. The village itself is a delightful blend of medieval architecture and vibrant coastal life. Its harbour is lined with tall, colourful buildings that seem to rise directly from the water’s edge, creating a postcard-perfect scene. The town’s narrow streets, known as carruggi, are filled with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants offering a taste of Ligurian cuisine. Fresh seafood locally made pasta like trofie with pesto, and the region’s famed white wines from the nearby Cinque Terre are staples on most menus. Dining here is an experience of both flavour and atmosphere, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating that overlooks the sea. Porto Venere’s timeless beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect destination for travellers seeking a more tranquil alternative to the more crowded tourist hubs of the Italian Riviera. Its combination of historical significance, architectural marvels, and breathtaking natural surroundings make it a UNESCO-recognized site of immense cultural and environmental value. Whether you are wandering through its ancient streets, exploring its islands, or simply soaking in the views from a seaside café, Porto Venere promises a truly unforgettable experience that captures the magic of Italy’s Ligurian coast.

Photo Gallery of  Walk 1 – Via Giuseppe Garibaldi to Via Calata Doria
Approximately  3.52 km –  2.19 miles

The walk starts in Via Giuseppe Garibaldi – Scalinata Arenella – Passeggiata Aldo Moro – Via Olivo – Via II Traversa Olivo – Walk back along Via II Traversa Olivo , Via Olivo & Passeggiata Aldo Moro to Via Aldo Moro – Piazza Bastreri – Piazza Darsena – Via Calata Doria
Please note, some of the street names were taken from the Michelin Street map for Portovenere
https://www.viamichelin.co.uk/web/Maps/Map-Portovenere-19025-La_Spezia-Italy

Photo Gallery of  Walk 2 – Via Capellini to Piazza Bastreri
Approximately 0.86 km – 0.53 miles

The walk starts in Via Calata Doria –  Piazza Spallanzani – Via Vittoria – Via della Chiesa – Piazza S. Lorenzo – Salita Castello – Castello Doria – Continue down Salita Castello to Via Capellini – Piazza Bastreri