Portofino, Italy by Christine Zenino

In the past, Portofino belonged to the Roman Empire and its name probably originated from the “Portus Delphini” because of the huge dolphins colony that lived here. A small town gained importance during the Middle Ages, when fishermen from the local port provided food for residents of the surrounding mountains.

Portofino is in a part of natural park – Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino.

There are lots of great sport facilities near Portofino. You can try sailing or windsurfing. Surrounding cliffs created real diving paradise with a unique ecosystem.

Portofino, Italy by Rosemary Dukelow

On the rocks above the sea level you can visit romantic St. George’s Church from 12th century, which ensures the protection of Portofino. From its tower there was a great view of the sea, which served as a good sea watch tower. On another hill, in a beautiful blooming garden, there is the Brown castle from the 16th century. Also this was originally a military structure, because of its strategic position, which also praised the Emperor Napoleon.

Oratory of Nostra Signora dell’Assunta from 14th century also worth seeing.

The post Portofino – one of the most romantic town in Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, Italy by Artur Staszewski

View Riomaggiore – where begin Via dell’Amore Italy in a larger map

Typical tower houses, each in different colour, have about 3 to 4 floors. They have two entrances: the front and rear, which allows direct access to upper floors. In the upper part of Riomaggiore there is the Church of San Giovanni Battista, built in 1340 by Antonio Fieschi, bishop of Luni. Just above the church there is the Castle of Riomaggiore, which dates back to the 13th century. It dominates the village from the hill. Interesting is also the 16th century oratory of the Disciplinati also called “church of the Confraternita dell’Assunta”.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Richard, enjoy my life!

But the most beautiful and famous part of Riomaggiore is Via dell’Amore – a hiking trail across the charming countryside leading to the near Manarola. The trail has been closed at the end of the 80s because of a lot of landslides. Thanks to the financing of the European Union in 1995 some renovation works were begun and finally the “Via dell’Amore” was reopened and you can now admire the breathtaking views from the trail.

View Riomaggiore – where begin Via dell’Amore Italy in a larger map

The post Riomaggiore – where begin Via dell’Amore | Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

Positano, Campania, Italy by Stefano Costantini

Positano is one of the world’s most beautiful resorts and, of course, one of the most expensive. The most renowned beaches here are sandy beaches Spiaggia Grande and Spiaggia Fornillo. There is also the rocky beach Scogliera. Of course you can do a wide range of activities here. The most popular is the diving and surfing. However the area is suitable for hiking as well. During the summer season Positano holds many festivals and celebrations. Among the most significant is the celebration of the landing Saraceno – “Festa di Santa Assunta” or Festival of Dance – “Premio Positano“.

The city was an important port during the 16th and 17th centuries, but later in the 19th century many people moved out and those remaining lived very poorly. Around the year of 1950 a poor fishing village has been discovered again and opened to a new and lucrative industry. Today the inhabitants live solely from tourism. Currently Positano has around 4,000 inhabitants.

Positano, Campania, Italy by Jensens

There are several sights that you can find here, but visitors are coming here mainly for romantic sunsets. One of the best ways to enjoy a sunset is sitting on the beach with a glass of Limoncello.

The post Positano – the most beautiful town on the Amalfi Coast in Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.