 Introduction
Originally established in the countryside, away from the coast, the town started to expand to the shore in the 1950s. Situated in the Province of Imperia, it is known for the vast number of olive groves, and greenhouses that dot the landscape. Here, the region's famous flowers and vegetables, including the “cuore di bue” tomato, are grown.
Pilgrims have been journeying to San Bartolomeo al Mare for centuries to visit Nostra Signora della Rovere, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared on several occasions. The most famous siting occurred on April 18, 1671 to a shepherd who had recently suffered a stroke. The following day, while at mass at the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora della Rovere, the shepherd was miraculously healed. Since then, many have claimed to have been healed of their afflictions after a pilgrimage to the sanctuary.
Arrival Plane
International visitors have two options for arrival, Genoa's (GOA) “Aeroporto Di Genova” and Nice's (NCE) “Nice Cote D'Azur” are both close by. Both airports accommodate flights from around Italy, as well as many cities throughout Europe. Ryanair runs direct flights from London Stanstead to Genoa, and Easyjet flies direct to Nice from several British cities.
Train
Trains from Genoa and Nice arrive at the station in Cervo, 2.3 km from the center of San Bartolomeo al Mare. The journey from both cities takes just over 2 hours.
Car
From Genoa, 105 km east, follow the A10 Motorway to the San Bartolomeo al Mare exit. Nice is a bit closer, lying 90 km to the west. Take the A10/E80 Motorway to the San Bartolomeo al Mare exit.
Bus
Bus service to San Bartolomeo al Mare is available from several cities around Italy including Milan, Asso, Bergamo, Bormio, Canavese, and Torino.
History and Culture
In 1887 San Bartolomeo al Mare was heavily damaged by an earthquake, but much of the medieval town, and historic churches have been restored. In the 1950s, the modern town began to be built near the shore.
Churches and Museums
Set in the hills above San Bartolomeo al Mare, in the area called Rovere, the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Rovere is a very important shrine. It is believed that the Virgin Mary has appeared here, and has healed many pilgrims who have visited. The church's neoclassical facade features a bas relief depicting the Annunciation. A statue of Mary, crucifix made of wood dating from the 1400s, and a depiction of the Madonna and Child painted in the 1500s can be found inside.
San Bartolomeo Church
Located in the original part of town, the church was destroyed in 1887 when an earthquake shook the region. Of the original structure, only the bell tower, dating from the 13th century, remains. A baptismal font from 1483, made of marble is one of the first treasures which greets visitors as they enter. Also inside, can be found a polyptich of “Saint Barthelemy and the Saints” created in 1562, a statue of the Virgin Mary, a statue of the Virgin Mary holding the baby Jesus, and two large paintings that depict the Virgin Mary.
Church of Sant'Anna
This church dedicated to Saint Anne, the mother of Mary is located in the hamlet of Poiolo. During the earthquake of 1887, the village was destroyed, but it still makes an interesting visit, with extraordinary views.
Church of San Rocco
Situated up near the A10 Motorway, this church is named for the saint who is said to have taken a rest on a nearby rock. The imprint of his body was left there.
Historical Buildings and Monuments
This 16th century tower was part of the medieval defense system constructed to help protect San Bartolomeo al Mare against pirate invasion.
Places of Interest
One of San Bartolomeo al Mare's hamlets, Rovere was once covered in dense forests. The Sanctuary Madonna della Rovere is located here. Roman graves were discovered in this ancient part of the town, as were ceramics which predate Roman times.
The Beach
Most of the hotels in the modern town that line the shore have their own private beaches. But there are also three public beaches in town, including one near the port. Blessed with a beautiful climate, San Bartolomeo al Mare is a wonderful place to enjoy the wonders of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach has been awarded the “Blue Flag of Europe” award many times.
The Woods
In an effort to expose visitors to the incredible woodlands around San Bartolomeo al Mare, the town has started the “Eco-Museum of the Territory,” a project that includes a path through the woods, along old mule tracks and ancient roads. The three-hour walk brings you past lovely churches and medieval bridges.
Events
A major tradition in the region, this special event features exquisite cuisines from all over Italy. Visitors are offered the chance to have a taste of the nation's most delightful culinary treasures.
Saggi e Assaggi - April
Celebrated chefs from Italy gather in San Bartolomeo each year to give lessons in cooking.
Rovere d'Oro Award - July
Each year scholarships are awarded to young vocalists and instrumentalists at this ceremoy. It's a gala event that culminates with a grand concert near the shrine of the Madonna della Rovere.
Rovere d'Oro Concert Series - August
The area in front of the shrine of the Madonna della Rovere hosts concerts by young performers at this annual event.
Festival M&T Music and Theatre - Summer
Experimental theatre, and music performances from around the world are showcased at this annual event which celebrates an international exchange of ideas.
Festa del Vento - September
A celebration of wind, this festival features kite making workshops and experiments for children.
Links
Transport
Transport
Official Website
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