Italy in Photos

Via Cavour, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy (May 2022)

Santa Margherita Ligure

Situated along the picturesque Ligurian coastline, Santa Margherita Ligure is a seaside town that epitomizes the charm and elegance of the Italian Riviera. Located in the region of Liguria, in northwestern Italy, this stunning destination is renowned for its azure waters, lush hillsides, and colourful historic buildings that line the harbour. A favourite among travellers seeking both relaxation and a touch of glamour, Santa Margherita Ligure combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, offering a perfect blend of coastal tranquillity and sophisticated allure. Positioned between the bustling port city of Genoa and the glamorous village of Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure is a prime spot for those looking to explore the best of the Italian Riviera. While it may be overshadowed by the fame of nearby Portofino, Santa Margherita retains a distinct identity that offers visitors a more relaxed, authentic, and less crowded experience. Its charm lies in its ability to strike a balance between being an upscale resort town and a welcoming community, where the rhythm of daily life continues amidst the ebb and flow of tourism. The heart of Santa Margherita Ligure is its vibrant waterfront, lined with pastel-coloured buildings typical of the region. The harbour is filled with fishing boats, luxury yachts, and sailboats, reflecting the town’s dual nature as both a working port and a chic destination. Strolling along the palm-lined promenade, visitors are treated to stunning views of the sparkling Ligurian Sea, while elegant cafes, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants invite you to pause and soak in the atmosphere. The town’s seafood is a highlight, with fresh fish, mussels, and other delights straight from the local waters featured on most menus.

Historically, Santa Margherita Ligure has long been a retreat for aristocrats, artists, and travellers. Its origins date back to Roman times, but it grew in prominence during the 19th century when the European elite began flocking to the Italian Riviera for its mild climate and scenic beauty. The town’s architecture reflects this heritage, with grand villas, luxury hotels, and palazzos adorned with decorative frescoes and terracotta rooftops. One of the most striking examples is Villa Durazzo, a 17th-century mansion set within beautifully manicured gardens overlooking the sea. Today, the villa serves as a cultural hub, hosting art exhibitions and concerts. In addition to its architectural beauty, Santa Margherita Ligure is also a gateway to natural wonders. The nearby Portofino Regional Natural Park offers hiking trails that meander through olive groves, pine forests, and rocky cliffs, providing breathtaking views of the coastline. One of the most popular hikes is the trail from Santa Margherita to Portofino, which rewards trekkers with sweeping panoramas of the sea and picturesque vistas of hidden coves. The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, including rare birds, making it a haven for nature lovers. Santa Margherita Ligure’s religious and cultural heritage is another draw. The Basilica of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, with its Baroque façade and richly decorated interior, stands as a testament to the town’s deep-rooted traditions. Throughout the year, Santa Margherita plays host to a variety of festivals, including the Festa della Primavera (Spring Festival), which celebrates the arrival of spring with parades, music, and fireworks. These local events provide a window into the town’s vibrant community life and offer visitors the chance to experience the warm hospitality for which Liguria is famous. Santa Margherita Ligure is a captivating destination that embodies the quintessential charm of the Italian Riviera. Whether you’re looking to bask in the Mediterranean sun, explore historical landmarks, or indulge in the region’s renowned cuisine, this coastal town offers a perfect escape. With its blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and timeless elegance, Santa Margherita Ligure is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a taste of Italian coastal luxury.

Santuario nostra Signora della Lettera – Chiesa di San Giacomo, Via S. Francesco D’Assisi, 5, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure GE, Italy (May 2022)

The Santuario Nostra Signora della Lettera, also known as the Chiesa di San Giacomo, is a beautiful and historic sanctuary located at Via S. Francesco D’Assisi, in the coastal town of Santa Margherita Ligure, in Italy’s Liguria region. This church is a place of deep spiritual significance and a focal point of cultural and historical importance in the area. Overlooking the stunning Ligurian Sea, the sanctuary offers not only a place for religious reflection but also breathtaking views that enhance its peaceful atmosphere. The origins of the sanctuary can be traced back centuries and are intertwined with both the religious devotion of the local people and the broader maritime traditions of the Ligurian coast. The church is dedicated to the Madonna della Lettera (Our Lady of the Letter), a figure of great reverence in Christian tradition, particularly in coastal regions of Italy. This title refers to a legend where the Virgin Mary sent a letter of blessing to the people of Messina, Sicily. The devotion to Our Lady of the Letter eventually spread beyond Sicily, reaching various parts of Italy, including Liguria. This church in Santa Margherita Ligure stands as a testament to the spread of this devotion, drawing in believers and tourists alike.

The sanctuary’s architecture blends elements of Baroque and Renaissance styles, with decorative frescoes, intricately designed altars, and fine stucco work that reflects Italian religious artistry. Inside, visitors will find a peaceful ambiance created by dim lighting and stained-glass windows that cast colourful patterns onto the stone floors. The altar, adorned with images and statues of Mary and the saints, serves as the spiritual centre of the church. The beauty of these artistic details draws visitors into a quiet reverence, providing a fitting environment for prayer and reflection. The church’s significance is also highlighted during local religious festivals, particularly those honouring the Madonna della Lettera. On these occasions, the sanctuary becomes a lively centre for gatherings, processions, and traditional Italian religious practices that highlight the strong Catholic roots of the community. Residents and visitors come together indevotion, keeping alive the faith and traditions that have shaped Santa Margherita Ligure’s identity for generations. Beyond its religious role, the Santuario Nostra Signora della Lettera is situated in a picturesque area near other attractions in Santa Margherita Ligure, such as the bustling harbour, scenic coastal trails, and charming seaside villas. The sanctuary’s location makes it an ideal stop for travellers exploring the region’s natural beauty and historical sites, offering a blend of spiritual and cultural enrichment. Visiting the Santuario Nostra Signora della Lettera provides a memorable experience for anyone interested in Italian history, architecture, or spirituality. Whether one is seeking a quiet moment of reflection or an appreciation of Italy’s religious artistry and tradition, this sanctuary stands as an inviting symbol of Santa Margherita Ligure’s enduring heritage.

Photo Gallery of  Walk 1 – Piazza Federico Raoul Nobili to Via Cavour
Approximately 0.94 km –  0.58 miles

The walk starts in Piazza Federico Raoul Nobili – Via Fiume – Via Roma – Via Torino – Santuario di Nostra Signora della Rosa, Piazza Caprera – Piazza Caprera – Via Palestro – Largo Giovanni Amendola – Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini – Via Cavour

Photo Gallery of  Walk 2 – Piazza Caprera to Strada Provinciale 227
Approximately 0.74 km – 0.46 miles

The walk starts in Piazza Caprera – Via Pescino – Piazza Martiri della Libertà – Corso Guglielmo Marconi – Strada Provinciale 227

Photo Gallery of  Walk 3 – Via Jacopo Ruffini – Il Giardino di Villa Durazzo, Via S. Francesco D’Assisi
Approximately 0.71 km – 0.44 miles

The walk starts in – Via Jacopo Ruffini – Via Anton Maria Maragliano – Via Jacopo Ruffini – Via Favale – Corso Guglielmo Marconi – Via Luciano Manara – Piazza Sant’Erasmo – Via Tre Novembre – Via S. Francesco D’Assisi – Santuario nostra Signora della Lettera – Chiesa di San Giacomo – Via S. Francesco D’Assisi – Il Giardino di Villa Durazzo