Portovenere - Pride of the Italian Riviera

Blessed with a picturesque harbor and decorated with colorful houses

Portovenere is one of the most talked about Italian Riviera villages. The charming village is ideally situated on the edge of a promontory, overlooking a close. Old buildings and narrow streets of Portovenere complement its medieval charm. And "it is known for its rich culture and traditional way of life known. Its inhabitants are applauded for maintaining a harmonious relationship with the natural landscape. These are just some of the reasons why, along with the Cinque Terre and the entire eastern Ligurian Riviera ; the village held a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The layout of Portovenere think always meant to be a tourist town

As you walk through the main street called Via Capellini, you will be greeted by a number of shops and restaurants. The Peter's Church is one of the most important historical sites in Portovenere and the origins of the church date back to the 6th century. In the 13th century, have become a bell tower and the gothic-designed sections were added.

Another religious building you should be able to explore, is the church of San Lorenzo from the 12th century, with its imposing Romanesque facade. Finally, you can not leave without dropping Portovenere Doria. Built between the 12th and 17th centuries; The castle has become symbol of the village. Visitors go to the village usually go for a walk on the hill where the castle is located. This large fortress opens its doors in the summer. This is also the time in which hosts a number of art exhibitions.

Another nice place to walk to is the stroll along the harbor. Here you will not have to worry about competition with vehicles, as the entire area is for pedestrians only. You can take your time and admire the colorful houses along the waterfront. If you go all the way to the other side, you will come across the cave of Byron. And 'possible to swim near the coast, but there are sandy beaches. Fortunately, you can easily to the nearby island of Palmaria, to your cravings for sandy beaches meet the head.

Palmaria is the largest of three islands just across the strait. There are several tour boats that are scheduled to take tourists to these islands of Portovenere every day. So you do not have to search for a way to get the Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto worry. Not only do we have beautiful beaches, the main attractions of Palamaria include the Blue Grotto and the cave called Cave of Pigeons. Although both military zones, Tino and Tenetto are the houses of the abbey from the 11th century and the 6th century monastery.

You can famous called the Gulf of Poets find Portovenere in a peninsula. This is actually a part of the Gulf of La Spezia, and has earned its name in reference to the famous writers such as DH Lawrence, Byron and Shelley, who often visited during the 19th century. From La Spezia or Lerici; You can reach the village in ferry service that operates along the Italian coast. Other options are by bus from La Spezia or driving on narrow road from the A12. But note that in the summer spacse, parking can be easily filled.