Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy. Vernazza - that same romantic Italy. In which country is the city of Vernazza located?
Cinque Terre - Ligurian time machine. Vernazza
Today we present to your attention five virtual tours, dedicated amazing place on the map of Italy - Cinque Terre. During this week, there will be an appearance on our website every day. new city and on Friday, March 27, all five cities of the “Five Lands” will be available for viewing.
And now a few facts about the Cinque Terre:
Ten kilometers of rocky coastline settlements: either cities or villages. Why do tourists from all over the world come here? Let's try to figure it out.
Would you like to be in a place where colorful houses climbing steep cliffs, vineyards spread out on the slopes, and the emerald sea splashing below? Where there are no cars, but lots of boats? Where can you endlessly wander through narrow medieval streets? There is such a place: the Cinque Terre (“Five Lands”) nature reserve on the Ligurian coast of Italy.
The Five Lands are five tiny towns: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare. Each of them has its own recognizable face and is not like the other.
Since 1997 national park The Cinque Terre is protected by UNESCO. Instead of the usual parked cars, you will see stacked boats. The sea washing the Ligurian coast is considered one of the cleanest in the Mediterranean. Over a decade and a half of existence national park marine flora and fauna have been restored here, which attracts not only beach tourists, but also divers.
You can get to the park by water, by boat, small boat or by railway. At the same time, the train travels almost all the time through a tunnel, which makes traveling on it reminiscent of a trip in the subway. The composition comes to the surface only at stations, so as not to disturb the beauty of the natural landscape.
Most large city, Riomaggiore, founded at the beginning of the 13th century. Its population is about 1,700 people. This is where the famous Road of Love begins (or ends, depending on where you are coming from), which I will talk about below. In addition, Riomaggiore is famous for its wine. However, this can be said about each of these five settlements.
Created between towns walking routes. The distances are not very long, but if you decide to go along them, keep in mind that you will have to go along mountain paths, and it will take much longer to overcome them than on flat terrain. To warm up, you can start with Via del Amor: the Road of Love, connecting Riomaggiore and Manarola, a city of 450 people that still has medieval fortifications that protected the inhabitants from pirates.
Here is one of the legends that you can hear about this place. A long time ago, young men from Manarola went to the stream that flowed near Riomaggiore to fetch water. As usual in ancient legends, the inhabitants were at enmity with each other. One of the young men met a beautiful girl from Riomaggiore by a stream, and they, having fallen in love with each other, began to meet secretly. The girl's brothers found out about this and locked her in the house. She got out and ran to her lover, but their meeting ended tragically: they both slipped and fell from the rocks into the sea. Since then, the residents have stopped fighting and live in peace, and the road is named Via del Amor. The 2011 flood severely damaged the Cinque Terre, but almost all its consequences have now been eliminated. Unfortunately, landslides and rockfalls often lead to the road being closed.
If you find yourself in Manarola, walk along Via del Amor, remember ancient legend. And when evening overtakes you, it’s best to watch the sunset on the mountain: it’s not without reason that the excellent view is widely published on postcards. In addition, Manarola has one interesting attraction: a boat lift. Lifting the boat from the tiny stone cove, it is suspended on a block and pulled up to be placed on the square.
Corniglia is the smallest town of the “five” (245 inhabitants), and also the only one that does not have access to the sea, as it is located on the top of a mountain. To get here, you need to climb a high staircase (perhaps that’s why there are fewer tourists here). But if you make it up the steep climb, you'll be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views from the observation deck, and walking through the narrow streets will be enjoyable even on a hot day. Corniglia is famous not only for its vineyards, but also for its unusual way of delivering the harvest. The steep slopes are too tough for vehicles, so the grapes are transported on a monorail device that resembles a motorcycle riding on a roller coaster.
Vernazza is the jewel of the Cinque Terre, the most picturesque of the five towns. The beautiful Church of Margaret of Antioch, built at the beginning of the 14th century, is adjacent to the Belforte Tower and the ruins of a castle built before the 11th century. On the square facing the bay there are many restaurants serving Italian cuisine. And just over 1000 people live in Vernazza.
And finally, founded in 1056, Monterosso al Mare (population - 1563 people) differs from its peers in the presence sandy beach what attracts tourists here. If you turn to the side, after 600 meters you will reach old town. There is also a small beach here, and also begins walking trail to Vernazza.
On one of my previous trips, I had the opportunity to walk it. I took a walk with great pleasure, but my companions flatly refused to repeat the hike. However, even unprepared tourists are quite capable of climbing the Cristoforo hill to the Capuchin monastery and the old castle, built in the 16th century to protect against Saracen raids.
If you love romantic views, walks in the mountains, the sound of the sea and Italian cuisine, go to the Cinque Terre. But keep in mind that during the season the number of beauty lovers can be quite large, so you should book hotels in advance.
The most convenient way to travel between towns is by train, which departs from La Spezia. It must be borne in mind that the Italian sun and light-heartedness in the air make the timetable optional, and trains may be late or arrive early. For lovers of leisurely hiking, hiking routes of varying difficulty are organized; an experienced traveler will need at least 12 hours to cover the longest (40 kilometers). The short journey between all five towns takes about 5 hours, but I have never met anyone who has walked all five in one go. And how can you not stop for a bite to eat in cozy restaurants? There is no hurry here!
You won’t find luxury hotels or big restaurants in these parts; they have their own rules and laws. But the hospitality of the people who paint their houses in bright colors, the amazing natural beauty of Liguria, and the feeling of traveling back in time are the main treasures of the Cinque Terre.
They say Vernazza is the most beautiful city Cinque Terre. In fact, it is too difficult to identify the very, very corner of this blessed land of Liguria: everything here is admirable - the azure color of the sea, the formidable overhanging rocks, and the bright houses, like scraps on a blanket, painting this marvelous region with splashing colorful colors.
How to get there
Vernazza, like the other four villages of the Cinve Terre National Park, can be reached on foot - along a picturesque path along the sea. And also by train - for example, from La Spezia in twenty minutes.
Beaches
Despite the fact that everyone doesn’t come to the Five Lands Nature Reserve for swimming, there are beaches in Vernazza where you can at least cool off. The first, small one, lies in the very center of the city. The larger beach is located a little outside the city (well, on the scale of these miniature villages outside means a 5-10 minute walk). You can get there through a cave in the rock, which is located near the main square.
Vernazza
Popular hotels in Vernazza
Entertainment and attractions in Vernazza
The main attraction of Vernazza is its landscapes, the best of which can be seen from the walking paths along the sea through all the villages of Cinve Terre. But in Vernazza itself there is something to see. For example, the Church of St. Margaret of Antioch from the 11th-12th centuries. Built in the Romanesque style, it was rebuilt in Baroque traditions in 1750, and in 1970, after a major reconstruction, it returned to its almost original appearance. Opposite the temple there is a Palace with galleries (not artistic, but, so to speak, architectural elements). This is a favorite meeting place for townspeople.
The Belforte Tower is considered the symbol of the village; its image is printed on literally every postcard and magnet.
It is also worth visiting the 17th century Church of St. Francis, which is adjacent to ancient walls and a tower from the 16th century. Even more ancient attractions in Vernazza are the Belforte Tower and the 11th century Doria Castle. From here you can enjoy an amazing panorama of the city and its surroundings for just 2 EUR. The castle tower is considered a symbol of the village; its image is printed on literally every postcard and magnet.
Finally, the Cathedral of the Black Madonna (Reggio), built in the 11th century. The revered image of the face of the Black Madonna is kept here.
Prices on the page are as of November 2019.
- Where to stay: at the most prestigious and expensive resorts Liguria - in Alassio and San Remo, in the democratic Diano Marina, on pebble beach Arenzano, on an “island” of peace and tranquility in Camogli or in picturesque Portofino. Rapallo, the city of ancient cathedrals, and Portovenere, the pearl of the Ligurian coast, included in the UNESCO list, await its guests. Arma di Taggia will appeal to family tourists for its gently sloping beach and calm waters, and to lovers evening entertainment It is worth paying attention to Bordighera and Pietre Ligure, and for romantics - to Lerici and Sestri Levante. Fans of solitude and silence can recommend Levanto, but those who want to find a rich groom from Milan should go to the resort
Vernazza – small town in the Italian province of Spezia, in the Liguria region, one of the five that make up the Italian national park (Cinque Terre). Picturesque rocks surrounding a small bay, colorful houses huddled closely together on the very shore of the sea, the calm, even peaceful atmosphere of this place will not leave any tourist indifferent. Many who have been here claim that Vernazza is the very romantic, bright, cheerful Italy that they dreamed of seeing.
Accommodation on site modern city Vernazza dates back to the Roman Empire and until the end of the 13th century was jointly owned by three powerful and noble families. From those times, many ancient architectural buildings remain in the town, which coexist with modern buildings on the streets of the town of Vernazza. However, such proximity does not destroy the picture of universal integrity and harmony, but only enhances the impression.
Now no more than a thousand people live in Vernazza, so we can call it not only the most beautiful, but also the most quiet town in the Cinque Terre. Since Vernazza is part of a national park, driving is prohibited here. Such a ban has a beneficial effect on the local ecology - it is difficult to find cleaner air anywhere in Italy.
Beaches and attractions
Few people come to Vernazza for beach holiday, so there are only two beaches in the city, and even those are quite small. One of them is located right in the city center, the other, a little larger, is a 5-10 minute walk from the first, outside of Vernazza. To get to the second beach, you need to go through a cave, which is located near the main square of the city. At the pier near the beach you can rent a yacht or boat and take an exciting boat trip.
Vernazza is famous not only for its beautiful nature, clean air and gentle sea. Its architectural sights deserve special attention, the main of which is the Belforte Tower (Bastione Belforte) at the Doria Castle (Castello dei Doria), built in the 11th century. The tower is a recognized symbol of the city; its images are often placed on souvenirs. Excursions are regularly held around the castle and tower, and from those located there observation platforms magnificent panoramas open up.
From religious monuments The most famous architecture is the church built in honor of St. Margaret of Antioch in 1318 (Chiesa parrocchiale di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia).
It was built in the Ligurian Gothic style and topped with an octagonal tower. True, it did not retain its original appearance due to alterations and additions made over hundreds of years.
Opposite the Church of Margaret of Antioch is an ancient Palace with galleries, where residents of Vernazza most often make appointments. Not far from it is the Reggio Cathedral (Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio), built in the 11th century and dedicated to the image of the Black Madonna, which is highly revered in Italy.
True, to get there you will have to overcome a rather steep climb, but the unique attraction is worth it.
How to get there
You can get to the city of Vernazza by train from La Spezia - the journey will take 18-20 minutes, the ticket costs 2.4 euros.
Vernazza (Italy) - the most detailed information about the city with photos. The main attractions of Vernazza with descriptions, guides and maps.
City of Vernazza (Italy)
Vernazza is a small town in northwestern Italy in the province of La Spezia. This is extraordinary picturesque place: Colorful houses seem to climb up the cliffs, a beautiful harbor with emerald water and boats, an ancient castle on top of a cliff and an ancient church by the sea. Vernazza is one of the most beautiful seaside towns Liguria, a small fishing village that fully conveys the atmosphere of Italy.
In October 2011, heavy rainfall caused flooding and landslides. This charming town was buried under 4 meters of mud and debris, and all residents were evacuated. Damage from the disaster amounted to more than 100 million euros. It took several months to return Vernazza to her former charm.
Geography and climate
Vernazza is located on the Ligurian Sea coast between Genoa and Pisa. The town is part natural park and famous cultural landscape Cinque Terre, which is the site World Heritage UNESCO.
Cinque Terre, nestled against the Ligurian coast, is a postcard charm of colorful houses, rocky beaches and quiet trails among terraces covered with vineyards, olive trees and gardens. Vernazza is perhaps the most beautiful place in Liguria.
Panorama of the town and bay
Practical information
- Population - 848 people.
- Area - 12.3 square kilometers.
- Language - Italian.
- Currency - euro.
- Visa - Schengen.
- Time - Central European UTC +1, summer +2.
Story
The first mention of Vernazza dates back to 1080. Thanks to its convenient natural bay, this place was used to protect ships from attacks by Saracen pirates and trade. In the 12th century, Vernazza became part of the Genoese Republic. The Genoese used the town as a springboard for the conquest of the Ligurian coast. Of the buildings and structures built by the Genoese, traces of the city walls, bastion and watchtowers.
During the reign of Bonaparte in France, Vernazza belonged to the French, and then became part of Sardinia. In 1861 the town became part of the United Italy.
How to get there
The best way to get here is by train from La Spezia and Levanto. The nearest airports are in Pisa and Genoa. To get to Vernazza by car you need to take the A12 motorway, then use the exit for La Spezia until Corniglia.
Food and drink
Pesto sauce was invented in the Cinque Terre. Be sure to try pizza with this sauce or another dish. In Vernazza you can also try fresh seafood and excellent local wine.
Attractions
The main attraction of Vernazza is the city itself, which is very organically integrated into the picturesque area of the Ligurian Sea coast.
The Church of Santa Margherita de Antioquia is an ancient church with a bell tower and a beautiful tiled dome. No one knows exactly when the first church was built on this site. But perhaps the oldest elements of the building date back to the 11th century. The main architectural changes were made in the 17th and 18th centuries. The church is located right next to the sea and is part of picturesque harbor.
Many believe that Vernazza has the most beautiful harbor on the Ligurian coast. Here you can not only rent a boat for the charming sea trips, but also to enjoy the sun and sea on small local beaches.
Doria Castle is a bastion on top of a cape that hangs over the sea and the city. This fortress was built in the 11th century to protect the coast from pirates. Fragments and a powerful tower have been preserved from the castle. It’s definitely worth going up here to enjoy the beautiful view.
Here is a detailed map of Vernazza with street names in Russian and house numbers. You can easily get directions by moving the map in all directions with the mouse or clicking on the arrows in the upper left corner. You can change the scale using the scale with the “+” and “-” icons located on the map on the right. The easiest way to adjust the image size is by rotating the mouse wheel.
What country is the city of Vernazza in?
Vernazza is located in Italy. This is a wonderful, beautiful city, with its own history and traditions. Vernazza coordinates: north latitude and east longitude (show on large map).
Virtual walk
Interactive map Vernazza with landmarks and other tourist sites is an indispensable assistant in independent travel. For example, in the "Map" mode, the icon of which is in the upper left corner, you can see the city plan, as well as detailed map highways with route numbers. You can also see the city's railway stations and airports marked on the map. Nearby you see the “Satellite” button. By turning on satellite mode, you will examine the terrain, and by enlarging the image, you will be able to study the city in great detail (thanks to satellite maps from Google Maps).
Move the “little man” from the lower right corner of the map to any street in the city, and you can take a virtual walk around Vernazza. Adjust the direction of movement using the arrows that appear in the center of the screen. By turning the mouse wheel, you can zoom in or out of the image.
