I love the small towns and villages in Italy. One of the reasons I like Dolceacqua so much is because it is not particularly known as a tourist destination.
Perched high on a hilltop in Liguria, Dolceacqua is one of Italy’s small towns above the hills of the seaside resort city of San Remo, not far from the French border As this picturesque city first comes into view from the road, it is truly a sight to behold, even at a distance. I am able to make out the outline of the remnants of a castle rising high above anything else. Of course this means stopping the car and getting out to take some photos from that vantage point.
Less than 1000 families call Dolceacqua home and the ones I met could not have been friendlier, even happily posing for photos when asked.
Surrounding the town are lush green terraced vineyards which produce the popular Dolceacqua wines, the specialty being Rossesse di Dolceacqua, a dry red wine. Two of the most interesting landmarks in Dolceacqua are the Doria castle and the Dolceacqua Bridge.
Doria Castle
The Doria castle, which was built in the 11th century, belonged to the Doria family for 300 years beginning with the year 1270 when the Genoa captain Oberto Doria purchased the property. Throughout the years the castle sustained much damage through invasions and natural disasters. In the 15th century the castle was attacked and damaged by a neighboring king, and the following century it was destroyed during the Austrian occupation. In 1887 a massive earthquake in Liguria badly damaged the castle.
Recently restored, the castle now belongs to the town of Dolceacqua and some areas of the castle are currently used for wedding receptions and other events. The town makes use of a conference room where art workshops and exhibits are held. A projection room screens movies to educate the public on the cultural aspects of castles.
Dolceacqua Bridge
One of the most celebrated bridges in Italy is the Dolceacqua Bridge and the reason for its fame is the fact that it was the subject of a famous painting by the French impressionist, Monet. He painted Bridge at Dolceacqua in 1884 and the original painting is at the Sterling & Francine Clark Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts.
The Dolceacqua Bridge spans the Nervia River connecting the old town called Terra to the newer more modern part of Dolceacqua. The bridge had been rebuilt on what had remained of a bridge which had collapsed in the 15th century. The bridge is 33 meters (a little over 36 yards) long and the winding cobblestoned walkway to reach it lends itself to a very impressive view. Naturally another amazing photo opportunity for me. Although I am not a painter I surely appreciate why Monet chose this as the subject of his painting.
Have you been to Liguria?I’d love to hear about your experience, so please leave a comment.
Grazie and ciao.
Jack Erickson
Wonderful post, Margie, loved your story. I’ve been to Liguria twice, Rapallo, Portofino, and Santa Margharita in ’13 and La Spezia in ’14. Next time I’ll definitely visit Dolceacqua, what a delightful name, ‘Sweet Water!”
dollygoolsby
I have not been there. i shall put it on my list of places to see. The little village looks so inviting.
margieinitaly
Thanks Dolly – You will love it and don’t miss the nearby village of Apricale as well…equally inviting! Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment!
imarancher
You may not be a painter as Monet was but you are an artist with the camera, which Monet was not. Does the name of this town mean Life on the Water or something like that? It seems a very pretty name for a very pretty place.
By the way, I use to think that Amazon, et al, was crazy for being interested in drone deliveries but after seeing the towns and farms of Italy I think it is a great idea. I cannot imagine how hard it is to obtain groceries and other necessities in these small places seemingly scattered by the hand of God through out this gorgeous land.
margieinitaly
I would think the name means sweet water or fresh water, Bonnie…but there is a link to an audio file with a very interesting history lesson of the town. Dolceacqua history
As always, thank you for your perspective and commentary!
TravelsWithRae
The photo of the bridge and walkway leading to it looks like a painting.. it doesn’t look real. Very cool!!! Great composition and perspective.
margieinitaly
Thank you so much Rae – It’s one of my favorite photos!
Andrew Petcher
Looks delightful – a part of Italy that I am yet to visit!
margieinitaly
Wow, really Andrew? I thought you have been all over Italia! LOL Definitely a must-see!
Un po' di pepe
Wow-now I have to go paint that ponte!
margieinitaly
Grazie! Absolutely–always a reason to go back to Venice!!