|
| |
|
 Introduction
What distinguishes Riomaggiore from the other four Cinque Terre towns is its historic character. Its medieval castle lies in ruins in the upper part of the town, and it's home to a 14th century church. It is the southernmost town in the grouping, accessible from Manarolo by the lovely Via dell'Amore.
The town is renowned for its wine that is created from grapes grown in the vineyards in the surrounding hills. From the hills, one can see the unique tower houses that fram the town's small sandy beach, and harbor.
A 4.5 km (9 mile) footpath connects Riomaggiore with the Cinque Terre's other villages, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Manarolo. The portion of the hike that joins Riomaggiore with Manarolo 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 Riomaggiore.
Boat
In summer, ferry boats connect all five villages, as well as nearby coastal towns.
 History and Culture
Greek refugees, fleeing Byzantine persecution, founded Riomaggiore in the 8th century. At one point, controlled by the Fieschi family, Riomaggiore became part of the Republic of Genoa in 1276.
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
Saint John the Baptist Church
Founded in 1340, the facade of this church which over looks the town, was renovated in the Gothic style, in 1870. Inside, a pulpit from 1530 features a relief of Saint Martin.
Oratory of the Disciplined
This structure dates from the 16th century, and can be found in the lower parts of the town.
 Historical Buildings and Monuments
The Castle
In the upper reaches of Riomaggiore, lie the ruins of the 15th century castle. The old cemetery is also found here.
The House Where Telemaco Signorini Stayed
The Italian artist, Telemaco Signorini (1835 - 1901) visited Riomaggiore frequently in the 19th century. He stayed at a house near the Church of Saint John the Baptist.
 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 entire trail stretches for 4.5 km (9 miles). The walk from Riomaggiore to Manarola takes 20 minutes.
Via dell'Amore
This is the walkway for lovers. Paved, and flat, it's an easy 20 minute pathway to the next town, Manarolo. Relax on one of the benches that line the trail, and watch the sunset.
The Vineyards
The hills surrounding Riomaggiore are filled with beautiful vineyards that produce the famous local wine.
 Events
Feast of Saint John the Baptist - June 24
The town celebrates their patron saint on this feast day with a procession.
 Links
Transport
Transport
Transport
Official Website
Official Website
|
| |
|