Portovenere

Already one of the most common Roman seafarers’ routes of the 2nd century A.C., Portovenere became a maritime port during the Byzantine period and, down the ages, joined the expansionist ambitions of the Republic of Genoa, that here established a military outpost. In a few decades, Portovenere changed its appearances, going from stronghold to fortified village, following the influence of the Genoese conquerors.

The most iconic landmark is the Chiesa di San Pietro (Saint Peter’s Church) that, according to a groundless tradition, was built on the ancient Roman temple dedicated to Venus. Also the Castello Doria (Doria Castle), built in 1161 and placed in an elevated position, is considered as one of the most impressive military architectures created by the Republic of Genoa. 

In 1998, Portovenere has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites and since 2001 it has been the seat of the Portovenere Regional Natural Park. 

Not far from Portovenere, you will find Le Grazie, a village nestled in a small bay. Its historical core was built around the Chiesa di Nostra Signora delle Grazie (Our Lady of Grace’s Church), a 15th-century building preserving a beautiful wooden choir. Inside the former monastery, splendid frescos by the Italian painter Nicolò Corso are preserved. The archeological area can be entirely visited and shortly a museum and an education path will be completed. The two coastline routes and the restoration of the ancient “Codevalle” trail today allow visitors and locals to enjoy pleasant walks in the pedestrian-only spaces covering almost the entire area of the bay, from Varignano to Punta Pezzino. Le Grazie is among the 13 teams competing in the Palio del Golfo, the traditional regatta where the 13 teams corresponding to 13 city districts or seaside villages across the Gulf compete in this stretch of sea in the first Sunday of August.
The village of Fezzano comprises ancient houses built one next to another and picturesque carrugi. At the center of the village there is the 18th-century Chiesa of San Giovanni Battista (Saint John the Baptist’s Church), representing a true symbol of unity for the entire maritime community. 

Fezzano hosts the remains of Villa Cattaneo, the property of a noble Genoese family.
Each year, Fezzano’s team participates in the Palio del Golfo, the traditional regatta where 13 teams corresponding to 13 city districts or seaside villages across the Gulf compete in this stretch of sea in the first Sunday of August.