 Introduction
A little gem on Italy's Ligurian Coast, Bogliasco lies just 12 km east of Genoa. Tiny, but enchanting, the village has a small, lovely beach with a sandy shore. Charming streets meandering through the village are wonderful to stroll along. With few shops, and excellent restaurants, Bogliasco is a relaxing, romantic retreat.
The town's piazza, crowned by a beautiful church, looks over the sea. It's a great spot to sip an aperitif, and watch the local life unfold around you. Those seeking a little more activity can stroll along the Passeggiata a Mare, a promenade that winds its way along the coastline. Delightful tunnels and houses are built into the cliffs. At the very top, lies a medieval castle. Built in the 1500s to protect the town from invaders, it's now a private home.
 Arrival
Plane
Genoa's, (GOA) Aeroporto Di Genova is very close to Bogliasco, and accommodates flights from around Italy, as well as many international cities. Ryanair runs direct flights from London Stanstead to Genoa, and Lufthansa operates three daily flights out of Munich.
Train
Take the train from Genoa toward La Spezia, and get off at Bogliasco, just over 20 minutes from Genoa.
Car
Just 12 km from Genoa, Bogliasco lies off the SP1 motorway.
 History and Culture
Fishermen have been pulling in their catch off the waters of Bogliasco for centuries. Recent archaeological excavations on Mount Cordona, above Bogliasco, revealed stone tools from the Palaeolithic Era. They were most likely used by the Ligurian tribes who farmed and fished in the region.
The Ligurians held off the Romans until 180 BC. The famous Roman road, Via Julia Aurelia ran through the town, over a bridge, the ruins of which can still be seen near the stream that runs into the sea.
Eruli and Goths began to invade after the fall of the Roman Empire, and Bogliasco was eventually ruled by the Byzantines. But it wasn't long before the Saracens, from northern Iraq began to attack. To protect themselves, the Bogliasco villagers built a castle in the 16th century. Erected high in the hills, from here, they could keep a watch out for attacking Saracens and pirates.
The Republic of Liguria was established on December 2, 1797, and Bogliasco eventually became a part of the Kingdom of Italy. In 1905, Alexander Skryabin, the Russian composer, made his home in Bogliasco. During this time, he workd on Le Poeme de L'extase, one of his major works. Today, the town is home to the Liguria Study Center for the Arts and Humanities, an artist's residence, hosting all sorts of artists from architects to filmmakers, to writers, to historians.
The hum of Italian life flows peacefully through Bogliasco, and each summer, those in the know, come to bask in its bay, and discover its charms.
 Churches and Museums
Parrocchia della Nativita di Maria S.S.
Dating back to the 12th century, this church is dedicated to the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. John Anthony Rich, one of the most influential Ligurian architects of the time, rebuilt the church in the 1730s, in the baroque style. Sculptures by Anton Maria Maragliano and Giuseppe Bocciardo, and paintings by Anton Maria Piola, Carlo Giuseppe Ratti, Francesco Pascucci, Tammar Luxoro, and others fill the church's interior.
Oratorio di Santa Chiara
This 15th century church was reconstructed in the 1600s, and is filled with wonderful artworks including paintings, an organ built by Lorenzo Roccatagliata in 1722, and elaborate wooden crucifixes.
Cappella di Ns. Signora delle Grazie
Built along the old Roman road in 1685, presumably during the plague epidemic in Bogliasco, this church is dedicated to our Lady of Grace. Another story says it was built after a girl was miraculously rescued after she fell from the rocks. It was rebuilt in 1817, and then again in 1925.
 Historical Buildings and Monuments
World War I Memorial
Many of Bogliasco's young men went off to fight in the Great War, never to return. In 1924, this monument was erected in their memory.
The Castle
For protection against invading pirates, the Bogliasco villagers built this castle in the 16th century. High on the hill, it's a perfect spot to watch for ships on the horizon, and it's now a private home.
 Places of Interest
Piazza XXVI Aprile
Surrounded by colorful homes and crowned by a beautiful church this piazza in the center of Bogliasco is a lovely place to sit and experience Ligurian life. Sip an aperitif and watch the sunset over the bay.
Passeggiata a Mare
Built into the rock, this promenade follows the Bogliasco coastline and offers breathtaking views of the sea and homes above.
The Hills
With several interesting trails winding through the hills surrounding Bogliasco, a trip to the town makes a great hiking excursion. Several ancient churches tucked into the mountains can be reached in just over an hour. Just be sure to bring sturdy hiking shoes, and plenty of water.
 Events
Festival of Basanne (Broad Bean)- May 1
The genovese fava bean is celebrated during this annual feast.
Festa della Madonna del Carmine - July 16
A procession, and fireworks occur on this feast day.
Feast of St. Clare - August 11
The great wooden crucifix from the Oratorio di Santa Chiara are paraded through the steets on this feast day.
Nostra Signora dell'Assunta - August 15
On the feast day of the Assumption, Bogliasco celebrates with mass, a procession, and a grand fireworks display.
Monthly Market - Every Fourth Sunday
Many vendors from around Liguria venture to Bogliasco's Piazza XXVI Aprile for the monthly market.
 Links
Transport
Transport
Traditional Ligurian Music Group
Artist's Residence
Transport
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