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 Introduction
Surrounded by stunning bays, Sestri Levante is a fabulous beach resort, comprised of a narrow isthmus and the island which it links to the mainland. The beautiful Mediterranean waters are everywhere. The town lies within the Golfo del Tigullo, on the Riviera del Tigullio. On the island, or isola, in Italian, narrow streets known as carrugi meander through town. Lined with baroque and medieval churches, gorgeous palazzos, villas, gardens, shops, and restaurants, the streets are delightful to stroll. There's an air of elegance that wafts through this lovely Ligurian town overlooking the peaceful Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence). The climate is pleasant all year round, but during the summer months, the beaches become filled sun seekers. Hans Christian Anderson was once one of them. Now, each year Sestri Levante awards the Anderson Prize to the best children's book writer, in honor of the legendary fairy tale master. And thanks to this heritage, Sestri Levante has an aura of enchanting whimsy.
 Arrival
Plane
Only 45 km away, Genoa's (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 regional train to Sestri Levante takes roughly one hour.
Car
45 km from Genova, Sestri Levante lies just off the A12 motorway. From Milan, follow the A7 highway to Genova Est, then get on A12 to the Sestri Levante exit. From Bologna, take A14 to Parma, then continue on A15 to La Spezia where you can pick up A12. From Rome, follow A1 to Firenze Nord, then follow A11 to Viareggio-Camaiore, which leads to A12.
Bus
The Autostradale bus runs between Milan and Sestri Levante. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours.
 History and Culture
The Tigulli, a Ligurian tribe, founded Sestri Levante. It was called Segesta Tigulliorum during Roman times, before it was destroyed by Barbarians who invaded the region. During the Middle Ages, the town began to develop, further expanding into the area that lies to the south of the Gromolo River, in the 1500s. The town at one time was included in the domain of the powerful Fieschi family, but in 1134, became part of the Republic of Genoa. During this period the Castle Isola was constructed, and the town was fortified against pirate invasions.
During the 20th century, industrial facilities began to spring up in Sestri Levante. Large residential areas exist to house the great population of industrial workers.
Today Sestri Levante is full of ancient architectural treasures such as a 17th century convent, and many medieval churches. The town's history is enhanced by its beautiful surroundings. Hans Christian Anderson fell in love with Sestri Levante in the 1800s, and visitors continue to fall in love today.
 Churches and Museums
The Galleria Rizzi
A marvelous collection of works from the Genovese school are on display in this art gallery. They date from the 15th to the 18th century.
Church of Saint Nicolo dell'Isola
Dedicated to Sestri Levante's patron saint, Saint Nicolo, this church dates from 1151. It features architectural elements from both the Baroque and Romanic style. Highlights include a bell tower and mullioned windows.
Basilica of Santa Maria of Nazareth
Situated in Sestri Levante's historical center, right on the Piazza Matteotti, this is a Baroque church which dates from the early 1600s. A variety of paintings, a Maragliano Pieta, and an intriguing crucifix, called the Santo Cristo, which was discovered in the sea, in the 1800s can all be seen inside.
Church of San Pietro in Vincoli
Created by Maragliano, there's a processional ark which is dedicated to Saint Catherine within this church. Initially dedicated to Saint Francis, it is filled with historic religious ornaments and wonderful paintings from the 1600s.
Church of Santa Sabina in Trigoso
A lovely pebble mosaic covers the square in front of this church, created in a style known as risseu. Part of the Fieschi villa complex, outside the church is a reproduction of the Presepio dei Delfini statue which lies in Riva Trigoso.
Church of Santo Stefano del Ponte
An incredible crucifix known as the Cristo Nero hangs inside this church, Sestri Levante's oldest Baroque style church.
 Historical Buildings and Monuments
Palazzo Negrotto Cambiaso
The Negrotto Cambiaso Palace is an extraordinary building in Sestri Levante. Constructed in the 1700s, the palace looks out over the beautiful Bay of Silence. The nobles from Genoa stayed here during the summer. After a renovation in the 19th century, the palace became a hospice, and later a school. Today, the building is used for education and research facilities. Conference rooms, offices, and service areas fill the three-story structure which was again redesigned by the architect Silvano Crocco.
The Convent of Our Lady of the Annunciation
The Dominican Fathers constructed this wonderful convent in 1496. Located at the tip of the Sestri Levante peninsula, the views from here are incredible. Two sides of the structure look out over the Bay of Silence, and the third side looks out to the vast Mediterranean Sea. A private society purchased the building in 1867, and it became a holiday camp. It's interior, with a frescoed church and cloister is lovely.
Historic Villas
When the Genovese aristocrats spent their summers in Sestri Levante they needed grand villas to house themselves. Now these wonderful creations from the 17th and 18th century fill the town, adding to its beauty. Some of the families who owned the villas include Doria, Fieschi, Balbi, Sartorio, Cambiaso, and Pallavicini.
Castle Ruins
Constructed during medieval times by the Genoa Republic, the castle was mostly destroyed. Though parts of the ancient walls can still be observed.
Marconi Tower
Originally part of the fortification that helped defend Sestri Levante from invastion, the tower was purchased by Guglielmo Marconi in 1934. He used it to experiment with radiotelephony, a system of communicating with ships, through short wave radio frequencies.
Palazzo Fascie
The city hall is housed within this eclectic Florentine structure. It is located in the city center.
Presepio dei Delfini
Eleven point five meters below sea level lies this bronze nativity scene by Pietro Luigi Ravecca, and Vittorio Innocente. Put into the bay by Riva Trigosa in September of 2000, the five statues can be viewed from a boat.
Monument For Christopher Columbus
Constructed in 2002, by Gio Pomodoro, this monument for Christopher Columbus depicts the explorer's sail. The sail, mast, and boom are made of bronze. It stands atop a marble pedestal. An inscription by the poet Mario Luzi, translates to "What a journey have given you the winds."
 Places of Interest
The Beach
Dozens of beaches line the coast around Sestri Levante. Chairs and umbrellas can be rented, and all sorts of sea sports can be had.
Nature Trails
Dozens of trails for hiking through the Sestri Levante terrain can be enjoyed during a visit. Most offer breathtaking views of the bays surrounding the town. One exceptional route is the trail which goes along the Promontory of Punta Manara. There is also a trail which proceeds upwards to Punta Baffe. This path leads to Moneglia, an enchanting town described below. A hike to the ruins of Sant'Anna takes you over five Napoleonic bridges.
Moneglia
This peaceful little fishing village lies just a few kilometers from Sestri Levante. It's worth an excursion.
Portofino
A luxurious and picturesque town near Sestri Levante, Portofina is reachable by ferry.
The Regional Park of the Mount of Portofino
Nature enthusiasts should take an excursion to this park. Covered with rich vegetation, and hiking trails, the area offers exceptional views of the sea and regions beyond.
 Events
Handicraft Market - April - September
Sestri Levante's streets, between Via Asilo Maria Teresa and Corso Colombo are filled with arts and craft stalls during these market festivals.
Hans Christian Anderson Award - May
Fairy tale authors converge on Sestri Levante each year for this annual event that includes an abundance of street theater. The Anderson Prize is awarded to the best writer.
Giro d'Italia - May
One of Italy's greatest bike races kicks off in Sestri Levante. The winner is awarded the coveted pink jersey.
Barcarolata Festival - July
A fabulous parade of boats and fireworks show are the big attractions at this annual festival.
Festival Estivo Di Musica Da Camera - July/August
Each summer, grand locations in Sestri Levante host classical concerts. They occur each week in churches and piazzas.
The Month of Bread and Oil - August
A grand celebration is held each year in Sestri Levante to honor the new harvest of olive oil. Visitors can see some of the region's oil mills and bakeries, and taste all sorts of delectable olive oil. Four Good Weekends occur during the festival, where Sestri Levante's four main products are celebrated: Bread, Oil, Fish and Wine.
Festival of Bread and Oil - November
Once again the town throws a big celebration for its olive oil. But this festival, held the last Sunday in the month of November, features a tremendous market. Many farms, and oil producers from the region descend on the town to show their products. Olive pressing demonstrations and tastings occur.
Concerti D'Autunno - November/December
Classical concerts are held in the Convento Dell'Annunziata each week through November and December during this Autumn Concert.
 Links
Transport
Transport
Transport
City's Official Website
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