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 Introduction
Manarola is said to be the oldest of the five villages that make up the Cinque Terre. It's also the second smallest. Perched on a big rocky cliff overlooking the sea, the town is filled with pretty, pastel colored houses, joined by winding stone steps and alleys. There's a wonderful swimming hole off of the town's little harbor.
Sciacchetra is the name of Manarola's own local wine. It's created from grapes grown in the vineyards surrounding the town, and is one of the chief industries along with fishing.
A 4.5 km (9 mile) footpath connects Manarola with the Cinque Terre's other villages, Monterossa al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore. The portion of the hike that joins Manarola with Riomaggiore is known as Via dell'Amore (Lover's Trail). Take your loved ones on a stroll down this romantic lane. It's an easy, flat, paved walkway along the cliff, and just a 20 minute journey. The five towns are also connected by the local train which runs along the Spezia-Genoa line.
 Arrival
Plane
The Cinque Terre is located between Pisa and Genoa, approximately 100 km from each city. Both Genoa's (GOA) Aeroporto Di Genova, and Pisa's Pisa International Galileo Galilei Airport are logical arrival point for international travelers. Both airports accommodate 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. To Pisa, Air France, Alitalia, and EasyJet operate daily flights from Paris. And several airlines fly direct from London.
Train
From Genoa, take the train to La Spezia, a one and a half hour ride. The journey from Pisa is slightly shorter. Trains from La Spezia to the Cinque Terre depart every hour. The journey takes 30 minutes. Local trains connect all five towns.
Car
Exit the A12/E80 motorway at Carrodano-Levanto, and follow the road to Riomaggiore, where you can park the car in an indoor garage. Another small parking lot is available just north of Manarola.
Boat
In summer, ferry boats connect all five villages, as well as nearby coastal towns.
 History and Culture
Toward the end of the 12th century, peasants from the mountains ventured down toward the sea and founded Monarola. A temple dedicated to the Manes (departed souls), called Manium Arula was constructed, giving the town its name.
In 1874, the railway line was constructed, linking La Spezia to Genoa, thus offering a chance for visitors to easily enter the region, and ending the Cinque Terre's virtual isolation.
In 1997 the five villages of the Cinque Terre became a UNESCO World Heritage site.
 Churches and Museums
Church of San Lorenzo
Construction began on the church of San Lorenzo in 1338. Twelve columns, and a crown of human and lion heads are featured in the rose window. Two triptychs from the early 16th century are found inside. One depicts several saints, including San Lorenzo, and the other is of the Madonna and Child.
Saint John the Baptist Church
In the neighboring village of Riomaggiore, is the church of St. John the Baptist. Founded in 1340, it was renovated in 1870. A pulpit from 1530 features a relief of Saint Martin.
 Historical Buildings and Monuments
The Tunnels
During World War II, the residents of Manarola spent the night in these tunnels to protect themselves.
 Places of Interest
The Coastal Path
All five villages of the Cinque Terre are linked by a footpath that varies in elevation and terrain. The hike from Manarola to Corniglia takes 45 minutes, and from Manarola to Riomaggiore, 20 minutes.
The Village Square
Relax at one of the restaurants that line the village square and enjoy the local pesto, olive oil, and wine, while watching daily life occur around you.
Via dell'Amore
This is the walkway for lovers. Paved, and flat, it's an easy 20 minute pathway to the next town, Riomaggiore. Relax on one of the benches that line the trail, and watch the sunset.
The Vineyard Trail
The hills surrounding Manarolo are filled with beautiful vineyards. A marked walk that takes you through them.
The Christmas Nativity
From early December, to late January, Manarola is home to the world's largest lit nativity.
 Events
Feast of San Lorenzo - August
The town celebrates their patron saint on this feast day with a procession.
 Links
Transport
Transport
Transport
Official Website
Official Website
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