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 Introduction
Sheltered by the Punta dell'Olmo and Punta della Madonnetta, Celle Ligure lies by a peaceful bay on the Ligurian Riviera. The town's sandy beach is adjacent to verdant hills filled with pine trees, olive groves, and vineyards. Lined with shrubs and flowers, a promenade stretches for over one kilometer connecting the town's two beaches. Pastel colored houses line the port of this quaint fishing village, where generations have been pulling in their catch daily. It's a picturesque town in the wonderful Ligurian region, which retains its traditional appearance, and makes a fabulous beach holiday.
 Arrival
Plane
The airport in Genoa, (GOA) Aeroporto Di Genova is quite close to Celle Ligure, and accommodate flights from around Italy, as well as many international cities. The airport in Nice (NCE) Nice Cote D'Azur is about 160 km to the west. EasyJet flies direct to Nice from several British cities. Ryanair runs flights from London Stanstead to Genoa, and Lufthansa operates three flights daily from Munich.
Train
Take the Genova-Ventimiglia line to Albisola. It's a 50 minute ride from Genoa. From Albisola, a ten minute taxi ride gets you to the center of town.
Car
Genoa is just 42 km from Celle Ligure, and depending on traffic, it's just a twenty minute drive away. Follow the A10 motorway to the Celle Ligure exit. At a distance of 160 km, Nice is quite a bit further, but still a good option for those interested in a scenic coastal drive. From Nice, follow A8 to A10, and exit at Celle Ligure.
 History and Culture
A series of powerful families originally laid claim to Celle Ligure, first the Clavesanas, then the Marchesi Bosco and Banzone, and then the Doria and Malocelli families. In 1528 it became part of the Varazze Podesta, and was later ruled by Genoa. In the middle ages, Celle Ligure joined forces with neighboring Monferrarto, to create a defense against invading Saracens. The two castles built as part of the city's defense system are now in ruins. Pope Sixtus IV was born in Celle Ligure in 1414. He was pope from 1471 - 1484 and founded the Sistine Chapel.
 Churches and Museums
Church of St. Michael the Archangel
Built upon the site of the old medieval church in 1629, the Bishop of Savona consecrated this church in 1645. A wonderful painting of St. Michael the Archangel, created by the Raphael protege, Perino del Vaga in 1535; sculptures by Maragliano; and paintings by Domenico Fiasella, Domenico Piola and G.B. Carbone created in the 1600s can all be found inside.
Our Lady of Consolation
This 15th century church was renovated in 1725 so that the interior became a single nave, and the facade was redesigned in the Neoromanesque fashion.
 Historical buildings and monuments
House of Sixtus IV
Located in the hills surrounding Celle Ligure, the one-time home of Pope Sixtus IV dates from the 15th century. It's a good example of one of the homes built during this period with lookouts to help defend against pirate raids.
 Places of Interest
The Beach
Celle Ligure has consistently been awarded the Blue Flag, for its clean and beautiful coastline. Lined with incredible cliffs, the sandy beach is a perfect place to spend your Celle Ligure holiday.
The Historical Center
Surrounded by lovely pastel colored homes, painted this way so fishermen could distinguish their house from the rest, Celle Ligure's town center is quite cheerful. Visit the Ferri Palace and the Nostra Signora della Consolazione Church.
The Promenade
Any time of day is perfect for a stroll along Celle Ligure's seaside promenade. Beautiful Mediterranean vistas greet your palm fringed journey.
Antique and Craft Market
Each month, Celle Ligure holds an antique market. It takes place every second Sunday except in July and August.
 Events
International Independent Film Festival - August
A showcase of independent films from all over the world is shown here each year.
Mand'ommu - July
Artisans from the local region display their wares at this crafts fair, held each summer. Music, puppet shows, and other entertainments can also be enjoyed.
 Links
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