Italy in Photos

Via Antonio Discovolo

Via Antonio Discovolo is the main street that winds its way through the heart of Manarola, one of the five picturesque villages that make up the Cinque Terre on Italy’s Ligurian coast. This charming road is more than just a route; it is the central thread that connects the town’s colourful houses, bustling shops, and breath-taking views. Named after Antonio Discovolo, an Italian painter celebrated for his evocative depictions of the Ligurian landscape, the street serves as both a tribute to local artistry and a living artery of the community.

Arriving in Manarola, visitors often encounter Via Antonio Discovolo shortly after stepping off the train. From here, the street slopes gently upwards through the village, guiding travellers past pastel-painted buildings that cling dramatically to the rocky hillsides. The warm tones of the architecture—sun-washed pinks, ochres, and soft blues—combine with the scent of fresh focaccia and the hum of conversation to create an atmosphere that is uniquely Mediterranean.

Along its length, Via Antonio Discovolo is lined with small family-run shops, artisanal boutiques, cafés, and gelaterias. Here, one can browse for locally produced olive oil, sample the region’s famous Sciacchetrà wine, or pick up handmade souvenirs crafted by local artists. In the evenings, the street glows under soft lamplight, becoming a place for leisurely strolls where locals greet one another and visitors linger over glasses of Ligurian white wine.

The street is not just a commercial hub; it is also a cultural passageway. Murals, small shrines, and architectural details tell the story of Manarola’s heritage, fishing traditions, agricultural roots, and the enduring bond between the people and the sea. The sound of church bells from the nearby San Lorenzo Church often drifts down the street, blending with the distant crash of waves against the cliffs.

As Via Antonio Discovolo climbs, it eventually opens toward panoramic viewpoints where the Mediterranean spreads out in a sweep of deep blue. From these vantage points, one can admire the terraced vineyards that rise behind Manarola, a testament to centuries of careful cultivation on steep, challenging terrain. The road’s upward journey mirrors the town’s layered geography, from the harbour to the hillside.

Via Antonio Discovolo is the spine of Manarola, carrying not just the foot traffic of residents and travellers, but also the stories, flavours, and rhythms that define this beloved village. To walk it is to experience Manarola’s soul in motion, a blend of history, community, and coastal beauty that leaves a lasting impression.