The village of poets - #UNESCO World Heritage Site - the "Birth of Venus" ... #tuttitaly
They ask me, "Which is the most beautiful place you have seen so far in Italy?" My mind is projected like lightning in Porto Venere and, more precisely, on this glimpse of the Italian coast made only of pure beauty.
Impossible to forget Portovenere; the landscape between
cliffs-sea-village-castle is among the most amazing you can ever see with your eyes.
Portovenere, also written Porto Venere, is located in the province of La Spezia and can be easily reached by car. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the islands of Palmaria, Tino, Tinetto, and the Cinque Terre, which "begin" immediately to the west of the spike that houses the two churches.
The view here is truly unique, and do not miss climbing up to the Doria Castle; from the fortress, the picture is breathtaking.
Loved by poets for its beauties, the panoramic views overlooking the sea, and the tranquility it emanates, the town was the favorite destination of illustrious
personalities such as Eugenio Montale, who celebrated it with verses, and the English George Byron, who stayed there for a long time and drew inspiration for his works.
Walking through the village's narrow streets, perhaps on a spring or autumn day when it is less crowded, you can breathe an unusual quiet that mixes with the history of the churches and monuments that meet, like the Genoese Gothic-style temple of San Pietro.
The church, built on a spur of rock at the edge of the town overlooking the open sea, was born on the remains of a pagan temple dedicated to Venus Ericina, patron of fertility. Entering, you can admire the majesty of the "Christian temple," as described by Montale, of the three naves and side chapels decorated as part of the facade with black and white stripes.
Did you know that Simonetta Vespucci was born in Portovenere, precisely in the hamlet of Fezzano, the model who
inspired Sandro Botticelli for the famous work "Birth of Venus," the renowned tempera painting on canvas: it was believed by his contemporaries the most beautiful living woman of the time, we are in the middle of the fifteenth century.
Italy is full of beautiful places, but this t for me. As soon as I have the opportunity, I go there with the inevitable stop in the nearby Borgo by Pegui, a perfect combination for peace of mind and regenerating you with positive energy.
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