The Centre of Pietra Ligure

Pietra Ligure is one of the most architecturally interesting towns in Liguria characterized by the “caruggi“, the typical narrow streets that are a feature of many Ligurian towns. The town centre has recently undergone restoration works and is now a pedestrianised area.

The oldest part of Pietra Ligure is concentrated in the area of what was once the parish church. It is a peaceful area full of interesting views of the old town. The centre leads onto the seafront walk, Giovanni Bado, an oasis of palm trees and gardens.

During the summer months the seafront is full of tourists and residents attracted by the many shops and events taking place, such as the famous fire works display held on the 15th of August. A stroll or a bike ride along the seafront leads to the harbor and to the beautiful castle  that is situated to the East of the historical town centre

The Castle

The town was once named la Pietra,(the Rock),  in reference to the imposing chalk rock face, located to the East of the town centre, on the top of which the Roman fort was built. The castle was extended during the barbaric and Saracen invasions ( VI-IX centuries). It was property of the Bishops and reached its current size during the XVI century.

Over the years the area West of the castle developed into a small town, surrounded by turreted walls. During the 18th century  5 entry gates were added that have today been restored.

After a series of events the town was finally surrendered to Pope Urbano VIII in Genoa in 1385 and it became strategically important as an advanced front for the Republic, between the Finalese and the Loano,  a stronghold of the Doria family. At the end of the 14th century it was surrendered to the Arnaldo family.

During the following centuries it passed through the hands of various families of the aristocracy and it was extended during the 18th century with the addition of a West wing. During the 1950s the medieval section was restored and transformed into a meeting place. The solid walls, held up by the imposing rocks, the inaccessible position and the low, vaulted passages are all visible signs of the importance and safety that the castle offered the town of Pietra Ligure

Beaches

The beaches in Pietra Ligura include open beaches and private beaches with modern facilities for adults and for families with children. A visit to the “spiaggia delle barche”, the beach of boats, where the fishermen once moored their fishing vessels, is a must.

Botanical Gardens

Pietra Ligure is home to a large area of parkland on the slopes of Mount Trabocchetto. The Park has lots of species of plant life and includes a tribute to Saint Francis, lover of plants and animals, a pond with fish and turtles with a wooden bridge and an area reserved for animals ( foxes, chickens, sparrows and other birds).