 Introduction
Alassio's beach is covered with incredibly find sand that stretches for 3,700 meters along the coastline. Stroll along the sandy shore, or bask in the Mediterranean sun. It's a perfect spot for children because the water stays unusually shallow until a ways out. Numerous tropical sealife make their home within the Bay of Alassio's calm waters, making it an excellent spot for scuba divers, as well as shell collectors.
Once a bustling resort for the Italian and English upper class, Alassio is home to elaborate villas which dot the hillside, and its famous wall “The Muretto of Alassio,” gives its name to the annual beauty pageant held each August. With a charming historic center, fine port, pedestrian shopping area, and variety of sports facilities Alassio makes a perfect holiday destination for the whole family.
Arrival Plane
The airports in Genoa, (GOA) “Aeroporto Di Genova”, and Nice (NCE) “Nice Cote D'Azur”, are closest to Alassio, and accommodate flights from around Italy, as well as many international cities. Ryanair runs direct flights from London Stanstead to Genoa, and Easyjet flies direct to Nice from several British cities.
Train
High speed trains will get you from Genoa to the Alassio train station in just over an hour. But the majority of trains take one hour and forty five minutes. It also takes one hour and forty five minutes to arrive from Nice (Nice Ville).
Car
245 km from Milan, 195 km from Turin, 110 km from Nice, and 95 km from Genova, Alassio lies just off the A10 motorway. Exit at Albenga and follow SP582, to SP1, to Alassio.
History and Culture
The Ligurians from the Inguani tribe were the first inhabitants of Alassio. During medieval times, families living in the hills ventured down to set up homes along the coast where they could fish. The Benedictine monks from Gallinara Island at first ruled the region, but it was later annexed to the Republic of Genoa, before becoming part of the Ligurian Democratic Republic. In the sixteenth century, while the port was busy trade ships journeying from Spain, France, and Portugal, construction began on a defense system. Comprised of a tower, and a series of walls surrounding the city, the system helped protect Alassio from pirate invasions.
During Napoleonic times, Alassio fell to French rule, and in 1861 became part of the Kingdom of Italy. Later in the nineteenth century, the upper class from all over Europe, especially England spent their summers in Alassio. In the 1960s, Alassio joined Portofino and San Remo as the place to be for the fashionable, jet set crowd.
Churches and Museums
The tiny chapel by the Luca Ferrari Harbor is dedicated not only to the Virgin Mary, but also to the memory of all those lost at sea. It was consecrated on September 8, 1929, and stands on the former spot of an old defense tower.
Church of Santa Croce
The Benedictine monks from the island of Gallinara, who controlled Alassio in the 11th century, built the Church of Santa Croce on the Roman Road, Via Julia Augusta. Made of stone, in the Romanesque style, the church was badly damaged during the second world war. In the 1960s renovations were completed. It's worth a visit for the view alone. Perched high on a hill, you can see an amazing panoramic vista that includes miles of the Ligurian Sea from the lovely grounds surrounding the church.
Church of Sant'Anbrogio
White and grey pebbles are laid out to form images of sea creatures outside the entrance to this 15th century church. Originally built in the Romanic style, it was later updated to the baroque style, and finished with a Renaissance facade in 1896. Incredible frescoes depicting the life of Saint Ambrogio, by Virgilio Grana cover the central vault, and works by other artists from the Genoa Painting School also adorn the church. Look for the altar of Saint Anne with its painting by Francesco Carrega in the nave on the right, and the relics of the “Corpi Santi.” The engraved black stone tabernacle dates back to the 15th century.
The Madonna della Guardia
Built on the ruins of a medieval castle on the Tirasso Mountain in 1200, the church's interior was refurbished in the 1700s. It includes the revered marble statue of the “celestial guardian,” a marble altar from the 17th century, and interesting architectural points. But the most incredible aspect of the church are the frescoes. Created by the artist Virgilio Grana between 1859 and 1860, they cover the vaulted central nave. The church also houses an organ, and is surrounded by a lovely park.
Church of the Capuchins - Santa Maria Immacolata
Saint Francis plays an integral role in this church. His statue stands in front by a little pond, a Franciscan facade fronts the church, and a 1503 pulpit inside, made of black stone, depicts the nativity and includes images of Franciscan saints. Built in 1500 during a pirate raid, it was expanded one hundred years later to house the Capuchin Friars.
Santissima Annunziata Church
Medieval frescoes depicting hell, and the seven capital vices, can be found within this 14th century church. Rebuilt in 1480, it got a new bell tower in 1840. Keep an eye out for the 16th century paintings and sculptures inside.
Church of Saint Vincenzo Ferreri
Built in 1938, this church sits opposite a park which houses a statue of Padre Pio. Inside the Neo Empire style church are three 17th century paintings, and a polychrome marble altar.
Church of Sant'Anna ai Monti
The Benedictine monks built this church in 940, and it's believed to be one of the oldest sacred buildings in the city. Sold during the Napoleon Era, it was restored and reconsecrated in 1970. Intriguing frescoes fill the space.
Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli
Look up upon entering this church and see a painting of the Madonna degli Angeli by Giovanni Andrea Ansaldo. Continue on to view the central nave's beamed ceiling. The church was built in 1400, consecrated in the 17th century, and purchased in 1870 by Don Bosco who set up a boarding school.
Church of Santa Anna
Built by the locals in 1730, this small church is typically Ligurian. A wooden crucifix by Anton Maria Maragliano hangs above the main altar, and several nice 18th century artworks fill the space.
Church of Carita
Ship-owners built this church between 1307 and 1310 to help the pilgrims en route to Rome for the first Jubilee. Black stone sculptures adorn the facade, and its interior features three altars, unusually placed in a line. Paintings of the Virgin ascending to heaven as well as a statue depicting the Assumption can be found inside.
Madonna delle Grazie
Two exquisite works of art reside within this 1226 church. Created by an unknown artist from the Genoese school, there is a painting depicting the birth of the madonna. And near the organ, hangs a very old Alassio coat of arms painted with gouache, representing Adelasia, Emperor Otto I's daughter, who the city is allegedly named for. Take a look at the floor comprised of marble and slate tiles.
Church of San Sebastiano
Many different architectural styles are represented in this church, because it took so long to complete. Construction first began in 1200 and over the centuries it was enlarged. The facade as we know it today was completed in 1820. A renaissance style makes up the interior, baroque style can be seen on the facade, and the church bell is a typical example from the middle ages. Look for a painting of Saint Sebastian which was completed in 1929.
Church of Madonna della Neve
Built by the Boggiano family in 1757, and purchased by the Ramasso family in 1880, the church was first used as a private family chapel. Dedicated to the Madonna della Neve, it was later restored, opened to the public, and in 1975, consecrated again.
Church of San Bartolomeo
On the fourth Sunday after Easter, the feast of Corpi Santi is celebrated in this hilltop church. Set high on a rocky crag, a visit to this 1603 church includes a stroll among the olive trees, and an exploration of a cemetery nearby.
Church of San Giovanni Battista
A very modern church, it was built in the 1980s and includes a tall bell tower.
Monastery Santa Chiara
In the late 19th century the old monastery stood where the town hall currently is. Just prior to demolition, the new, larger monastery was built in 1884.
Ex Chiesa Anglicana
This former Anglican church is now an art museum which exhibits the work of contemporary Italian artists. Theatrical and music performances are also held here.
Historical buildings and monuments
Created by local artist Mario Berrino in the 1960s, this is an Italian port town's version of a Hollywood walk of fame, and one of Alassio's great traditions. It consists of 550 tiles signed by celebrities who visited Alassio over the years including Ernest Hemingway and Charlie Chaplin.
The Tower
Protecting the port from pirates was serious business in the 16th century. So the Genoese built the tower at Borgo Coscia to do just that. Along the Ligurian coast towers can be spotted from among the greenery. Most are in ruins now, but centuries ago it was imperative for a town to have one so that guards could keep a watch on the sea, and warn of pirate invasions. Alassio's tower rises powerfully above the city.
The Tower of Vegliasco
During you're stay in Allasio, you're sure to spot the city's coat of arms. You'll notice a tower depicted there. It's not the tower in Alassio, it's actually the Vegliasco Tower which lies about 6 kilometers to the north. With its beveled crown it's one of the most beautiful towers in the region, and worth a visit.
Train Station
Built in the early nineteen hundreds, the Liberty Style building features a central turret and windows decorated with reliefs. It's a wonderful example of Art Nouveau design. Original furnishings can still be found in the stations' interior, and the first class waiting room is especially hospitable. There you'll find a Murano glass chandelier illuminating the antique sofas and mirrors.
Places of Interest
Blessed with one of Italy's most beautiful beaches, Alassio is a sun worshiper's dream come true. Four kilometers of soft, golden sand are divided into several sections with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and snack bars aplenty. Protected by the Ligurian hills, the city has an excellent climate which is just right for sunbathing, and frequent dips into the sea. The sand here is raked nightly, so in the morning it's once again pristine.
The Hills
Twenty five clearly marked paths wind through the hills surrounding Alassio. Just be sure to bring sturdy hiking shoes, and plenty of water.
Il Budello
This street is the city's main pedestrian thoroughfare and runs adjacent to the sea. Century old, pastel colored houses with shops in their ground floors line the street. Get everything from Italian shoes to gelato.
Gallinara Island
Once home to the Benedictine monks who controlled Alassio in the 11th century, the island now houses a nature preserve. A large colony of Herring Gulls make their home here among many other varieties of birds, reptiles, and glorious flora and fauna.
Events
Every August since 1953, bathing beauties from the Liguria region have gathered in Alassio for the Miss Muretto beauty pageant. A great tradition in the area, it was named after the Muretto di Alassio.
Festival of the Biscette - April
Each April the people of Alassio celebrate the Biscette. The typical Ligurian cake is made with flour, sugar, hazelnuts, and orange flower water. It's shaped like a snake to honor the ancient legend of the hermit who ridded the city of the slithery creatures.
Alassio Jazz Festival - July-September
Jazz musicians from all over the world venture to town each summer for Alassio Jazz. The festival takes place in the Piazza Partigniani.
Links
Transport
Transport
Sports Facility
Local Beauty Pageant
Local Artist's Website
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