 Introduction
Halfway between Cinque Terre and Portofino, Chiavari is a lovely coastal town on the Tigullio Gulf. With a population of less than 30,000, Chiavari is a little town, and makes a wonderful seaside holiday destination. The town is famous for two very special handicrafts: straw chairs, and macrame.
A fabulous historic center, and beautiful, clean, Blue Flag award-winning beaches, make Chiavari a choice destination for those in the know.
 Arrival
Plane
Only 40 km away, Genoa (GOA) Aeroporto Di Genova is a logical arrival point for international travelers. The airport accomodates flights from around Italy, as well as many cities throughout Europe. Ryanair runs direct flights from London Stanstead to Genoa, and Lufthansa runs three daily flights out of Munich.
Train
From Genoa, the train to Chiavari takes roughly one hour, with the high speed train clocking in at 40 minutes.
Car
40 km from Genova, Chiavari lies just off the A10 motorway. Exit at Chiavari.
Boat
Ferries from Portofino and the Cinque Terre dock at the Tourist Port of Chiavari.
 History and Culture
Populated since the 8th century BC, Chiavari was originally called Clavarium, which means Valley's Key. It was considered a vital destination for trade during the Roman era. In 1178 the Genoeses expanded east in an effort to oppose the advancement of the Fieschi family, and included Chiavari within their realm. Under the rule of Genoa, Chiavari flourished. A castle and walls were erected in the Middle Ages to help defend against pirate raids. The town became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia, and later the Kingdom of Italy. Many immigrants from South America arrived in Chiavari in the 1900s, thus streets named for cities like Buenos Aires and Lima.
 Churches and Museums
Archaeological Museum of Palazzo Costaguta Rocca
Ancient artifacts discovered by the Rupinaro stream are displayed in this impressive museum.
Sanctuary-Cathedral of Our Lady of the Vegetable Garden
This unusually named church houses a large collection of art from the 1700s.
Civica Galleria of the Palazzo Rocca
Paintings from the Genoes School, from the 17th and 18th centuries are housed her.
Diocesan Museum of Chiavari
Rare holy jeweler's art is found within this interesting museum.
The Sea Museum
Tackle and equipment from that great past time called fishing is on view here.
Meteoseismological Museum
Discover the history of the Tigullio Gulf in this intriguing museum.
Our Lady of Graces
A lovely hike through the Ligurian hills will take you to Our Lady of Graces church in Bacezza. The vistas are spectacular.
 Historical Buildings and Monuments
The Castle
Erected in 1147, the castle now lies in ruins which can be visited.
The Tower
The ruins of this tower, built in 1537 are worth a visit. Though the area now houses courts of law which were erected in 1886.
Palazzo Maschio Torriglia
Wonderful galleries can be found within this important structure, including the works of 16th and 17th century Italian artists.
 Places of Interest
The Tigullio Cultural Reserve
Founded in 1999, this nature reserve is an educational institution which informs visitors about the Chiavari region.
Antiques Market
On the first and third, weekend of each month, an antiques market can be found in Chiavari. The market is open both Saturday and Sunday.
 Events
Festival of St. Peter and St. Paul - June
Boats are blessed on this special feast day, and fresh fish is eaten.
Our Lady of the Garden Feast Day - July 2
On this day, all those devoted to Chiavari's patron saint, Our Lady of the Garden (Madonna dell'Orto), honor her by keeping her image close by.
 Links
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