Liguria is a small coastal region located in the northwestern part of Italy. It is comprised of four provinces, Genoa, Imperia, La Spezia and Savona. This narrow region is bordered by the Ligurian Sea and the Alps mountains making its panoramic views breathtaking. Liguria is filled with rich history, beautiful beaches, fine cuisine and quaint towns which attracts thousands of tourists every year. This long coastline is also known as the Italian Riviera and is characterized with white sandy beaches. Liguria has been an established maritime state since the Middle Ages and seafood is its main staple cuisine. Travel in this region is easy with the railroad network, taxis and buses available. Some of the most popular cities for tourists in the Ligurian region are Genoa, San Remo, Cinque Terre cities and Portofino.
Genoa is a bustling city known to be the home of Christopher Columbus. Its winding medieval alleyways offer adventure to the on foot traveler. The early 13th century San Lorenzo Cathedral and the Aquarium of Genoa have become favorite destinations of tourists. The National Gallery in the Palazzo Spinola has a fine collection of art from the 16th to 18th centuries. The Palazzo Reale is an epic mansion that has been renovated into a museum with a collection of art and furniture from Genoa's sea exploration era.
San Remo is located on the Italian Riviera and is a picturesque city within easy reach from Genoa. Some of its favorite highlights are La Pigna, the Madonna della Costa Sanctuary and the Casino. La Pigna is an historic town in San Remo featuring covered alleys and little squares from the 16th century. the Madonna della Costa Sanctuary is a 17th century building displaying famed paintings by Domenico Fiasella, Giulio Cesare Procaccini, Bartolomeo Guidobono. The Casino is a 17th century gambling house which has been frequented by crowned royalty and celebrities. San Remo is a picturesque harbor lined with the finest cafes and seafood restaurants which will provide respite after a day of meandering the streets.
Portofino is a harbor city with a duel personality. It has the charm of a small fishing village and at the same time its harbor is filled with oversized yachts. Portofino is a frequent place of the rich and famous and offers some of the finest boutiques and eateries and luxury hotels . Portofino's crystal blue waters reveal a beautiful display of aquatic life and can be admired from the nearby hills. There are also available tours for hiking, diving and boating. The Castello Brown is a popular destination of tourists. Castello Brown sits on a hill above the village and provides great views of Portofino and the sea. The medieval castle was the home of Yeats Brown, a British consul in 1870. Inside the castle , furnishings and photos belonging to the family are displayed. On the path to the castle, you can visit San Giorgio Church. This historic church was rebuilt after the last war.
The Ligurian region of Italy is a much desired place for tourists because of its breathtaking beauty, historical heritage and authentic Italian cuisine.
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