TERRA ITALIA Newsletter No 1 | 2025
Dear Readers and Fans of Liguria,
“Buon anno” and a warm welcome the first edition of the TERRA ITALIA Newsletter in 2025. With this newsletter we would like to take you through the fascinating world of Liguria. You will learn more about the region’s history and be left feeing inspired by our culinary and cultural highlights.
The Ligurian region is rich in history, culture and breath taking landscapes. Among its most valuable treasures are the medieval castles – witnesses to a past full of events and legends, marked by battles, century old nobilities and times of change. Add to this the stories of the powerful Grimaldi family, which has left an indelible mark on Liguria and the Hanbury Gardens, a paradise combining nature and culture. In this edition of our newsletter, we venture on a journey to discover these iconic places reflecting history, architectur and beauty.
We also once again present you with attractive real estate offers to help you find your dream home by the sea or in the beautiful Ligurian hinterland.
Wishing you a pleasant read
Kind regards,
In this issue we will take you on a journey through the fascinating history of the House of Grimaldi as it represents an integral part of Ligurian history. For centuries this family has been of great historical and cultural importance for this region.
The Grimaldis are a Genovese family who’s history is shaped by the legend, power, intrigues and survival skills. They have ruled over the Principality of Monaco for 700 years which is an unusually long period for any European ruling family.
The Grimaldi family was founded in the 11th century by Ottone Canella, a Genovese statesman. Through maritime trade and political engagement, Ottone Canella led the family to considerable wealth. His sons, among them Oberto I. Grimaldi, strengthened the Grimaldi’s influence as one of the most powerful families in Genova. However, in the 13th century the family was expelled from their homeland following political intrigues. Under the leadership of the Guelph leader Francesco Grimaldi also known as the Malizia (or malicious) who disguised himself as a Fransciscan monk, they captured the fortress Monaco in the year 1297.
From this moment forward, the destinies of the Garibaldi family and Principality of Monaco were closely intertwined. In the mid 14th century the territory was expanded under Charles Grimaldi or “Lord of Monaco” when the neighbouring fiefdoms of Menton and Roccabruna were captured. The Grimaldis sought to solidify their position as part of the feudal nobility and formed alliances with the French king and the Counts of Provence to protect themselves against a possible reconquest by Genoa.
To secure the dynasty, the Monegasque successions was established in 1454 following the principle of primogeniture (the right of the firstborn) also allowing for female heirs if necessary. The daughter of Prince Antonio I, Princess Louise Hippolyta, became the first of only two female rulers on the throne of Monaco. She was only allowed to marry under the condition that her future husband would renounce his name and adopt the coat of arms of the Grimaldi family. Jacques Goyon, Count of Matignon and French nobleman, accepted the conditions. After the death of Antonio I, Princess Louise Hippolyta and her husband ruled the principality together. Following the princess’ early death just eleven months after ascending the throne, her husband Jacques became the first to hold the official title “Prince of Monaco” in 1731.
Under his rule, Monaco experienced a period of prosperity driven by maritime trade and revenues from the principalities’ territories. Despite difficult times following the French revolution and a temporary subjugation to France, the Grimaldi family managed to reclaim their titles and lands during the period of Restoration.
Monaco regained its independence under Napoleon III but had to hand over some towns to France. The Franco-Moneguasse Treaty of 1861 marked a new beginning for the principality and the Grimaldi family.
Charles III commissioned François Blanc in the 19th century to establish gambling in Monaco. With the construction of the Casino de Monte Carlo and other elegant buildings, Monaco was meant to be developed into a luxury destination and solidify its reputation as a gambling and recreational resort. Success set in just a few years after the casino opened, resulting in the abolition of direct taxation for all Monegasques in 1869. To this day, Monegasques do not have to pay income tax making the small principality a popular residence among millionaires. In 1879 the famous opera house designed by Charles Garnier was inaugurated and ever since, the casinos and elegant palaces attracted the elite of the Second Empire and the Belle Epoque from all over the world. The Monaco Grand Prix was established in 1921 and is to this day a major attraction for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
The rock on which Monaco is perched, the world famous palace and the princely family enjoying celebrity status, have turned Monte Carlo, the Côte d’Azur and the Riviera dei Fiori into a haven of glamour and elegance.
With an area of only 2 km2 Monaco is the second smallest state in the world after the Vatican and even smaller than New York’s central Park. The palace is the heart and soul of the principality where the ruling family resides to this day.
Prince Albert I, also known as the “Explorer Prince” founded the Museum of Anthropology and Prehistory as well as the Oceanographic Institute in Paris and the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco. His successor Prince Louis II known as the “Soldier Prince”, joined the French army during World War I and introduced the principality to the World Health Organization.
His son Rainier III ascended the throne in 1949 ruling over an expanding principality that he fundamentally transformed. He promoted economic diversification, boosted tourism, expanded Monaco’s territory into the sea and introduced a new constitution. Under his reign, Monaco joined the United Nations and the Council of Europe.
Despite his reserved demeanour, Rainier III turned the small principality into an elegant centre for the rich and famous. His marriage to the famous American actress Grace Kelly whom he had met at the Cannes Film Festival in 1955, brought Monaco worldwide attention. The then Princess Grace was actively involved in Monaco’ overall growth, supported charities and headed the Monegasque Red Cross. Princess Grace died in a car accident in 1982 but her legacy continues to shape the principality to this day.
Following the death of Rainier III in 2005, Prince Albert II became the 14th ruler of Monaco. He has worked to further the principality’s development, focusing particularly on tourism, industry and real estate. As a passionate environmentalist he started a foundation in 2006 to promote sustainable development conserving nature worldwide with a special focus on the Mediterranean, the polar regions and areas severely affected by climate change.
Prince Albert II has been a pioneer in ecological matters and managed to turn Monaco into a hub for innovation. He and his wife Charlène Wittstock, a South African swimmer they parent twins Princess Gabriella and Crown Prince Jacques born on 10th December 2010 and ensuring the future of the Grimaldi dynasty.
LIGURIAN FORTRESSES AND CASTLES AND PALACES
The Heritage of the Ligurian Aristocracy
Fortresses and Castles – In Meaning and Structure
The history of the Grimaldis shows that the Middle Ages in particular, were marked by conquests, expulsions and wars. Due to its geographical location, Liguria was frequently victim to raids and plunderings by various rulers. The population at the time was therefore forced to build a series of defensive structures to prevent being overrun by conquerors.
Over the years watchtowers, city walls as well as simple and complex fortresses and castles were constructed. These were built on elevated positions and near rivers to defend their lords from attackers. The construction of castles symbolised strength and the ability to defend territories.
The structure of a castle was functional: moats, defensive walls, towers with arrow slits, a labyrinth of battlements and an imposing keep. Within the castle walls there were dungeons, the lord’s residence, water cisterns, grain stores and stables. In times of war the castle became a battlefield where besiegers attacked with catapults and battering rams while the defenders fired arrows to protect their fortress.
Even today the imposing and spectacular castles stand at the heart of villages in Liguria’s hinterland, such as the famous Doria Castle in Dolceacqua, the Castello della Lucertola (Lizard Castle) in Apricale, the castle pf Taggia or the castle of Andora. They are well worth a visit to journey into the past. In the following, we will introduce you to Liguria’s most historic castles and fortresses.
CASTELLO DEI DORIA
Entwined with the Grimaldis to the present Day
The Doria Castle in Dolceacqua perched majestically on a rocky ledge above the village of Dolceacqua and the Vervia Valley is an impressive structure with a rich and turbulent history. Built in the 12th century by the Counts of Ventimiglia as a defense fortress, it featured a square wall and a central round tower. Later it was acquired by the Doria family who founded a powerful dynasty in Genova with the castle playing a significant role in the region’s history.
In the 14th century the castle was besieged by King Robert of Anjou and forced to submit to his will. Under the patronage of Enrichetto Doria in the 15th century and Stefano Doria in the 16th century, the castle was transformed into a magnificent residence. The western wing adorned with intricate stucco and frescoed rooms, particularly stands out. The front section of the castle was used for the control and security of the village with spaces allocated to servants, for prisons and storage. The rear part housed the representative rooms to welcome guests and accommodate the local lords in their private quarters.
In 1491 a longstanding conflict between the Ghibelline Dorias and the Guelphs Grimaldis was resolved when Luc Doria from Dolceacqua married Francoise Grimaldi from Monaco, thus establishing a lasting bond between Monaco and Dolceacqua. However, in August 1523 a brutal act shattered this alliance when Barthélemy Doria murdered his uncle Luciel Grimaldi with 43 dagger blows in order to seize power. At the time, Lucien’s son Honoré was only 9 months old and so his brother Bishop Agostino Grimaldi of Grasse, temporarily took over the regency in Monaco. The succession was settled only after Barthélemy swore an oath of loyalty.
Later, Barthélemy Doria transferred his feudal rights to Duke Charles II of Savoy, leading to the vassalage of the Savoy Duchy. In the 17th century relations between the Dorias and Savoy deteriorated, especially during the war against the Savoy Duchy, prompting the construction of a strong east facing tower to restore the castle’s defensive system. During the war of the Spanish Succession in the 18th century, the castle became the site of fierce battles as it was captured by both French and Spanish forces.
After years of neglect, the castle underwent restoration in the 1920-ies and 1930-ies and was acquired by the municipality Dolceacqua in 1942. In 1986 restoration efforts were taken up again and work was completed in 2018.
With its 900-year history, there are numerous reasons to pay the Doria Castle a visit: Multi-media rooms and interactive exhibitions captivatingly tell the stories of the Doria and Grimaldi families and their close connections to Dolceacqua. Prince Albert II has been made an honorary citizen of Dolceacqua in 2018 and in 2023 Dolceacqua became a sister town of Monaco. The castle also hosts a variety of exhibitions, concerts and conferences turning a visit into an unforgettable event.
The castle has a conference hall seating up to 100 people, a fully equipped kitchen for catering and can be hired for weddings.
For more information and reservations please follow this link:
turismo@dolceacqua.it
To find out more about weddings please click here for the venue’s webpage.
Opening hours:
WINTER: 30th October to 15th March from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm, closed on Mondays
SPRING: 16th March to 4th June from 10.00 am to 01.00 pm and 2.30 pm to 6.00 pm
Saturdays, Sundays and on bank holidays open all day from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm
SUMMER: From 5th June to 29th October from 10.00 am to 1.30 pm and 2.30 pm to 6.00 pm; July and August open all day from 10.00 – 6.00 pm
Last entry 30 minutes before closing time.
Contact:
Cooperativa Omnia
Tel.: +39 337 1004228
E-Mail: castello@cooperativa-omnia.com
https://www.facebook.com/CoopOmnia
https://www.twitter.com/@CoopOmnia
CASTELLO DELLA LUCERTOLA APRICALE
Fortress and feudal Residence
The magnificient Castello della Lucertola or “Castle of the Lizard” with the origin of its name remaining a mystery stands perched on a rocky outcrop (called Apricus, meaning sunny place) in the Ligurian commune of Apricale and located in the old town between Piazza Vittorio Emanuele and Via al Castello. In the immediate vicinity of the church of the purification of the Virgin Mary, unobstructed views can be enjoyed over the stream running just below. Believed to have been built in the 10th century by the Counts of Ventimiglia as a defensive stronghold, the castle became the property of the Doria family – the lords of Dolceacqua in 1276. Over the centuries, the Dorias expanded and reinforced the fortress, flanking its façade with two square towers that closely resembled those of Dolceacqua Castle. Considered virtually impenetrable, the stronghold met its fate in 1523 when it was besieged by Bishop Agostino Grimaldi. His mission was to capture Barthélemy Doria who had taken refuge within the castle’s walls after being accused of murdering Agostino’s brother, Lucien Grimaldi. The bishops’ forces razed the fortress to the ground in their pursuit of justice.
The Dorias later rebuilt the castle resulting in reduced military function and giving up parts of the structure to the village and the adjacent church. The remaining tower was converted into the bell tower of the parish church while high stone wall with a distinct double row of arches still stands as a testimony to its medieval grandeur. The ownership of the castle changed hands multiple times, passing to the House of Savoy in 1634 before being reclaimed by Francesco Doria in 1652, In 1808 Stefano Cassini transformed the fortress into a private residence and in the early 20th century, his descendant surgean Fruttuoso Cassini added an inner roof garden, further altering the castle’s structure. After a period of decline, the municipality of Apricale acquired and restored the complex, bringing it back to life.
Today, the Castello della Lucertola is home to the Apricale History Museum, displaying artifacts, documents and Apricale’s medieval statues dating back to the year 1267. Visitors can explore secret underground passages, attend art exhibitions or cultural events. Thanks to its stunning views and the close proximity to the church the fortress has become a popular wedding venue.
Opening times:
Saturday 2.00 pm – 6.00 pm
Sunday 10.30 am – 6.00 pm
Mondays closed
Tuesday 2.00 pm – 6.00 pm
Wednesday 2.00 pm – 6.00 pm
Thursday 2.00 pm – 6.00 pm
Friday 2.00 pm – 8.00 pm
Contact:
Castello della Lucertola
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele 3
18030 Apricale, IM
Tel.: +39 0184 208 126
CASTELLO DI TAGGIA
Built on the Foundation of pre-Roman Times
The Taggia Castle is now a ruin, located on a hill above the village of the same name in Imperia. The original foundation of the defensive structure or control post situated at mid-level elevation between the Barbarasa and Santa Lucia streams, dates back to pre-Roma times.
Taggia was not spared from raids in the 9th and 10th centuries. For this reason, the village built a castle and walls in the 11th century. The exact date of the castle’s construction cannot be determined with absolute certainty. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century during the time of the noble Claesana family before coming under the rule of Genova in 1203. The castle served as a refuge for women and children in the event of a pirate attack and as a hiding place for the city’s accumulated wealth as well as a gathering point for various armies. Over the years numerous modifications were made to the castle. From its vantage point one can clearly see the development of Taggia. Houses were being erected directly below the castle and cascade down all the way to the Argentina stream with the typical stepped alleyways meandering through.
The original defence system of Taggia consisted of three protective walls with no fewer than eight gates and eight bastions of which the ruins of the Bastions dell’Orzo and dell’ Ciazzo are still preserved today. Access to the town was only possible through the gates in the city walls, each named after the respective district.
With Taggia’s transition into the dominion of the Republic of Genova in 1228, the estate was destroyed by the Genoese. Most of the remains visible today date back to the mid 15th century and have since gradually fallen into decay. In the 1960-ies the walls housed the municipal aqueduct tank. Following extensive restoration, the Castello di Taggia was transformed into a public space. Additionally in 2016 an amphiteatre was built, which is now used for cultural events and performances.
Castello di Taggia
Via S. Dalmazzo
18018 Taggi (IM)
If your interest in Castles has been triggered by now, you may want to visit the Castello di Andora. The ruins of the castle and village with its tower and romantic church of the holy Jacobus and Philippus are one of the most important monuments in Liguria.
Also worth visiting is the Castello di Garlena with its unusually rare interior layout, a family chapel and courthouse.
In Liguria history and nature come together in a fascinating concoction of medieval castles and cultivated gardens. Here, the influence of noble families on the region becomes evident showing how landscapes were shaped both by defence purposes and aesthetic appeal. Fortifications and picturesque gardens complement each other, forming a unique cultural heritage in Liguria.
The Giardini Hanbury in Mortola are a true gem of the botanical world. The history of this estate began in 1867 when Sir Thomas Hanbury acquired the beautiful terrain from the Orengo family and started its transformation. With significant contributions from his brother Daniel Hanbury one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world was created.
Die Brüder Hanbury hatten eine Vision von einem Garten mit verschiedenen Klimazonen, in dem Pflanzen aus aller Welt gedeihen sollten. Dank der hartnäckigen Arbeit und der wissenschaftlichen Expertise von Daniel Hanbury wuchs die Sammlung exotischer Pflanzen stetig an. Die Gärten wurden nicht nur bewundert für ihre Vielfalt, sondern auch für ihren wissenschaftlichen und wirtschaftlichen Wert. Die Sammlungen südafrikanischer, australischer und amerikanischer Pflanzen zogen internationale Aufmerksamkeit auf sich und dienten als Grundlage für pharmakologische Studien.
The Hanbury bothers had a vision of a garden with various climate zones where plants from all over the world could thrive. Thanks to Daniel Hanbury’s dedication and scientific expertise, the collection of exotic plants steadily grew. The gardens were not only admired for their diversity but also for their scientific and economic value. Collections of South African and American plants attracted international attention and served as a foundation for pharmaceutical studies.
The beauty of the Hanbury Gardens impressed with its diverse botanical spectrum and artistic architectural elements adorning the estate. Fountains, statues and the imposing Dragon Fountain to name just some of the garden’s most striking features. The Moorish Mausoleum where the ashes of Sir Thomas Hanbury and his wife rest, lends the estate a unique atmosphere.
Another fascinating aspect was the microclimate created within the gardens. Through careful design and the use of natural elements, different garden areas with distinct characteristics emerged. From citrus groves to Mediterranean shrubs and humid zones along the stream – the diversity was and still is impressive.
After Sir Thomas Hanbury’s death, the estate faced decay during the first world war. However, under the expert management of Cecil Hanbury and his wife Dorothy, the gardens experienced a renaissance. Lady Dorothy dedicated her life to restoring the estate and successfully saving it from decline.
Today, the Hanbury Gardens stand in their full botanical splendour. Since 1987 they have been managed by the University of Genova, have undergone extensive restorations and are used for scientific research. Since the year 2000 The Hanbury Botanical Garden has not only been a protected cultural highlight but also a internationally acclaimed scientific research site. The gardens remain a living testimony to the passion and dedication of their creators, making them one of the most beautiful gardens in the world.
The Giardini Hanbury in northern Italy is a fascinating place where normal climatic conditions seem irrelevant. Here, winter does not exist, spring arrives early and autumn lingers on allowing vegetation to blossom early and last longer. The long hot summer extends the flowering season well into winter. This unique microclimatic phenomenon turns the territory into a blossoming paradise all year round.
For friends of the Hanbury gardens the association “Amici dei Giardini Hanbury” offers the opportunity to actively participate in the care and preservation of these remarkable gardens. Members support the gardens through donations, hands-on assistance and enjoy year-round free admission and access to various cultural events. This close connection between garden enthusiasts and the Hanbury Gardens ensures the continuous maintenance and beauty of this exceptional treasure.
Contact:
Corso Montecarlo 43
18039 Ventimiglia (IM)
Tel.: +39 0184 229 507
Winter opening times:
Mondays closed
Tuesday – Sunday 9.30 am – 4.00 pm
After the festive season Ligurians usually begin the new year by serving lighter meals to help digest the many festive menus and shed a few extra pounds. The focus lies on enjoying full flavours whilst eating healthily to get back on from.
Minestrone – a simple but wholesome Meal
The word ‘Minestrone’ comes from the word ‘minestra’ standing for ‘soup’ as well as ‘mixture’. It is a traditional rustic dish, a thick soup or stew made up of various vegetables and tasteful herbs.
The origins of this dish are not quite clear. One theory suggests that it served poor people to use up leftovers, another theory says Minestrone was served to seafarers returning from their long journeys on which they had eaten hardly any vegetables and were served a Minestrone right in the port as a first freshly cooked meal.
Every region promotes their very own Minestrone recipe and most commonly it is made of celeriac, carrots, leeks, peas, tomatoes, potatoes, cabbage and beans and a good glug of olive oi. In Liguria it is custom to add pasta and if you prefer a more hearty taste one can add onions, garlic and parmesan. Minestrone is served alongside crusty Foccacia.
Minestrone does not have a lot of calories, is very satisfying, contains lots of vitamins and minerals to support the kidney functions and helps indigestion.
Frati in brodo vegetale – light and delicious
Ligurian locals are known for turning garden vegetables into tasty and delicious dishes. One such speciality are Frati in brood vegetale. These are vegetable roulades in savoy cabbage leaves filled with breadcrumbs, chopped up parsley, garlic, majoran, milk, egg, cheese, pine kernels, oil, salt and pepper cooked in vegetable broth. Come spring and particularly for easter, the cabbage leaves are replaced with salad leaves. A light and balanced recipe, typical for the Ligurian cuisine.
White roots
The white root vegetable is a north Italian speciality served in spring as a starter or preserved in a glass jar. Its exterior resembles in shape the black root and in colour a parsnip. It is however not related to either of them and its tase is very unusual – a mix of naturally bitter and mild. The root vegetable needs to be peeled, chopped and cooked in salted water with vinegar. It can be eaten straight after cooking with capers, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil or preserved with herbs and bay leaves in olive oil.
The white roots have a cleansing effect and go very well as a side dish with meat.
Raw artichokes, cleansed artichokes, roast artichokes
This artichoke grows in the Albenga plains and represents the culinary symbol of the town. It is known for its prickly outer leaves and its violet colouring. It reaches a height of more than 1 meter, does not blossom and has a fleshy stem. The consistency of the inner leaves is crisp, mild and sweet. Dipped in oil it can also be eaten raw. These artichokes are being harvested in February/March or early December. When roasted in the oven, they turn into a delicacy. The outer leaves and bottom part are being removed, the top is being flattened by hand and then the artichoke is being roasted in the oven with salt, pepper, parsley, garlic and olive oil.
The artichoke is known for having healing properties and stimulates the digestion, lowers the cholesterol level and cleanses the liver.
Ligurian Chickpeas Zemin
The chickpea Zemin is a light dish with a soft and creamy soup consistency. The origin of the recipe goes back to poor people’s food as it was considered ‘meagre’ as only plant-based ingredients go into this dish. It is however very nutritious as the chickpeas are rich in protein and a good source for minerals, calcium, iron, phosphor, kalium and contains vitamins A and B.
Recipe for 4 portions:
Ingredients:
- 500 g cooked chickpeas (they can be from the tin or dried; please consider soaking and cooking times for the latter)
- Dried mushrooms
- 200 g mangold
- 1 carrot, medium size
- 1 Stick celery
- 1 Onion
- 1 Tablespoon tomato purrée
- Garlic, rosemary, native olive oil,
- Salt, pepper
Method:
Dried chickpeas: soak overnight in cold water and discard the water
Tinned chickpeas: Turn into a sieve and drain
(Check on the relevant cooking times; pre cook in salt water and discard the water
Soak the dried mushrooms in warm water, keep the soaking liquid
Chop the celery, onion, carrot and garlic and fry in olive oil, frequently turning over.
Prepare the mangold, only use the leaves and cut in thin strips. Once the vegetable is well coloured, add the mangold and tomato purré and let simmer for some 20 minutes. Turn over the vegetables regularly.
Chop the rosemary.
Add 1 litre of water and bring back to boil. Once the soup is boiling again, add the drained chickpeas and soaked mushrooms and rosemary.
Season with salt and pepper and let it simmer for roughly one hour. Should the liquid evaporate, just add a little more.
Serve with a splash of olive oil and serve.
Enjoy!
“This restaurant has been missing in Vallecrosia” and is now a valuable addition to the class and variety in the gastronomic scene on the Ligurian coast, as many customers would agree. The Biamonti family, a gastro and fine food business in third generation, managed to fullfill a long held dream when they opened the ‘Iride” Gastro Bar in 2024. It is located in Vallecrosia on the first road running parallel to the sea and invites with its modern, discreet design and soft lighting with open bar and kitchen to meet with friends and family. The service is excellent, seems to have eyes everywhere and answers to every client’s wish.
The Iride Gastro Bar combines traditional cuisine with real craftsmanship and international inspirations. Italian dishes were handed from father to son who has gathered cooking experience and aromas from all over the world and now combines it with traditional cooking. Fabiano Biamonti passionately creates a refined cuisine of the highest standard and introduces new taste experiences and emotions to his guests. The starter can be individually chosen from a wide selection of Tapas and delicacies. And there is another special thing happening at the Iride. Following the philosophy that food has the power to bring people together, special dishes to share are being prepared in the wood fired Josper Oven. It combines the power of fire with the versatility of the grill and manages to achieve a uniquely smoky irresistible taste experience.
The knowledgeable wine experts will advise you on how to best complement your meal to make it a culinary highlight you would wish to return to.
The menu is seasonal and reflects the produce available on the market at any given time. The raw ingredients are of the highest quality preferably purchased locally.
If you would like to eat at the Iride Gastrobar, you are well advised to reserve a table.
Contact:
Via Colonnello Aprosio 258
18019 Vallecrosia (IM)
+39 0184 29 43 13
+39 328 812 4319
info@iridegastrobar.com
Opening times:
Mondays closed
Tuesday 7.30 – 10.30 pm
Wednesday to Saturday 12.30 – 2.00 pm – 7.30 – 10.30 pm
Finale Ligure and its hinterland are some of the most popular destinations for extreme outdoor sports such as biking, mountain biking, paragliding and rafting tours and the spectacular trial competition. We would like to introduce some of the most important competitions:
Trail del Marchesato – 1st and 2nd March 2025 in Finale Ligure
Off it goes to an exciting skyrunning adventure right on the coast of the enchanting “playground” of Finale Ligure. Here, technical trails, imposing limestone cliffs, mysterious caves and breath taking sea views set the stage for a thrilling competition. For runners of all levels this experience promises a sporting journey through the fascinating history and culture of this ancient and worshipped region.
The tournament is held under the patronage of the municipal administration of Finale Ligure and organised by the ASD (Amici Dello Sport) trail runners Finale Ligure. Thanks to the voluntary support of the fire brigade of the Savona provincial command and other rescue organisations, the staging of this event is made possible.
The Trail del Marchesato offers an exhilarating trail-running competition along the Ermano Fossati Path, named after a late operations manager of the Finale Ligure Division.
The spectacular race takes place on the first Sunday in March and features a challenging 60 km course with an elevation of 3,000 meter. Alternatively, participants can choose a 38 km route with a 2,200 meter ascent or a 16 km course with a 1,000 meter elevation. There is also an option to join a group on a 7 km hike. The region has long been recognized as one of Italy’s most stunning destinations for extreme outdoor sports such as rock climbing, free-riding and downhill biking.
The trail is meticulously planned and well prepared. It perfectly embodies the essence of mountain running, showcasing the region’s defining features: steep ascents, technically challenging descents, passages with fixed ropes and a unique crossing of three caves.
The grand finale in the medieval castle Finalborgo, also known as “Rocca die San Giovanni”, is an ancient 12th century fortress that stands as a symbol of the past noble rule. Despite the many wars of the Middle Ages, it has been majestically preserved in all its splendour offering breath taking views over the surrounding landscapes.
The Trail de Marchesato is suitable for runners of all levels and promises an inspiring sporting journey through the history and culture of this ancient and glorious land.
For more information on the routes and competition rules, please follow this link:
https://www.traildelmarchesato.it
Even at this time of the year, Liguria offers a number of events to keep art and culture enthusiasts and gardeners, passionate cineastes and food lovers equally happy.
Genova Antiquara – 21st-26th February in Palazzo della Meridiana
In the atmospheric setting of Palazzo della Meridiana, a historic Genoese architectural building, furniture, sculptures, paintings, ceramics, jewellery and collectibles will be exhibited for the first time in this format, taking visitors on a journey through history from the 16th century to the 1950-ies.
Among the masterpieces on display the exhibition from La Pieve presents a collection ranging from medieval “fondi oro” to 19th century paintings alongside highlights from the Renaissance, Baroque and Roccoco periods.
Notable works include oil paintings by Domenico Piola and Cornelis de Wael as well as the gilded wooden panel “Mythological Scene” (Genova region, 17th -18th century). The Galleria Arte Casa also showcases selected works by Angelo Costa, Sexto Canegallo, Rubaldo Merello as well as pieces by artists such as Ernesto Rayper and Eugenio Baroni.
Among the many other fascinating exhibits, visitors can admire a rare Genovese roll-top desk made of rosewood with ivory inlays and a Louis XV-style cabinet featuring a four-leave clover inlay. Don’t miss this cultural journey and visit the Genova Antiquaria.
Opening times: 10.00 am to 9.00 pm
For more information on the exhibition:
https://www.palazzodellameridiana.it/genova-antiquaria-2025
Salone Agroalimentare – 14th – 16th March 2025 Finalborgo
For all the gourmets among you, this event is a must. The Salone Agroalimentare food and agricultural fair in Finalborgo takes place in the monumental complex of Santa Caterina and across several squares in the historic centre of Finalborgo, which was awarded the title ‘Italy’s most beautiful village’ in 2008.
This fair gives food lovers, curious visitors and tourists the opportunity to enjoy a delightful weekend just a few steps from the sea. Exhibitors, special events and various themed areas provide a unique chance to discover the best agricultural and food products from the Ligurian region blessed with a wealth in natural produce.
Visitors can explore a variety of regional specialities including olive oil, Ligurian wines of protected designation of origin, jams, jellies, traditional focaccia, honey, violet asparagus from Albenga, liqueurs, beer, dairy products and truffles from Millesimo. There are also plenty of delicious dishes and local sweets to taste or to take with you to try at home.
With a full program of educational talks, tasting courses, workshops, seminars, conferences and cooking classes, this event will leave no questions unanswered.
Come and experience it for yourself.
Opening times:
Friday 3.00 – 8.00 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 10.00 am – 8.00 pm
For more information on the food and agricultural fair please follow this link:
https://www.saloneagroalimentareligure.org
Corso Fiorito – 16th March 2025 in Sanremo
Every year the Corso Fiorito in Sanremo officially welcomes spring to this city on the Riviera of Flowers. The origins of this parade date back to the Festival of the Goddess Fiora in 1904. The tradition was established with flower adorned floats and a grand flower battle. Today the Corso Fiorito is an established event on the Ligurian coast where artistic floral creations adorn the towns and its streets.
Preparations for the event take months and in just one night magnificently decorated floats and carriages parade through the city. These floats are elaborately designed with thousands of flowers shaped into creative objects and themes, filling the streets with their unique flowery scents.
As the moon rises the festival begins in the streets of Sanremo accompanied by cheerful music and dancing. The Corso Fiorito is a feast for the senses, transforming the city into a floral city par excellence and eagerly awaited every year.
Come and step into spring with us.
For more information and tickets for the event, please follow this link:
https://carnevalesanremo.it/en/
Wednesday Cinema in the Theatre Cavour – 22nd January – 12th March 2025 in Imperia
At long last and half a century later, the rediscovered cinema returns to the Theatre Cavour, the jewel of Imperia. To mark the occasion, award winning classics will be screened here every Wednesday from January 22nd. The program includes masterpieces by Leone, Fellini, Monicelli, Germi, De Sica, Scola and Wim Wenders.
On Wednesday January 22nd at 8.00 pm the theatre screen will come to life with the first film of the Cinema Ritrovato: A fistful of dollars (Per un pugno di dollar), the legendary 1964 film by Sergio Leone.
The opening ceremony will take place on January 22nd at 6.00 pm with a special event featuring Corrado Bologna. Bologna will present a literary retrospective exploring encounters with masters such a Petrarch, Boccaccio, Manzoni and others, giving insights into the secrets of the great books of our culture.
For the full program for the Wednesday events, please follow this link:
https://www.teatrocavour.it
