In Liguria, in the province of Savona, it is possible to admire one of the most fascinating villages in Italy, Noli, characterized by an ancient architecture that is nothing short of fabulous, between towers and castles. Added to this is a panorama to be discovered and fully enjoyed, between beaches to the south and a verdant hill overlooking the entire area in the north.
A must for those who love small seaside villages. We are located on the coast of Riviera di Ponentea. A lively community of less than three thousand inhabitants, enclosed within medieval walls that tell of a rich past.
The History of Noli
The history of Noli is very ancient and of great importance. From 1192 to 1797 this splendid village was the capital of the Republic of the same name. Its existence was undoubtedly linked to that of the Republic of Genoa, as well as of the other great centers of power. The human presence on the territory dates back to much earlier, being an ancient center of the Ligurians, which became a municipality in Roman times. His name already appears in documents of 1004. Known at the time as Naboli, which probably derives from Neapolis, of Greek derivation.
It became a Byzantine base during the Middle Ages, it was conquered by the Lombards, who destroyed it in 641. The reconstruction then took place near the sea, which laid the foundations for the maritime village today particularly appreciated. Over the centuries it became a Republic and its expansion lasted until the 1815th century, when the small port became inadequate for the trade load of the time. In XNUMX it was incorporated into Kingdom of Sardinia, as agreed by the Congress of Vienna, and subsequently in the Kingdom of Italy in 1861.
What to see in Noli
The sea area cheers up the days in Noli, where it is possible to get lost in picturesque views and dream views. It is a very popular seaside resort but, despite this, the Municipality has allowed the great effect of tourism not to distort it. Before reaching the village it is advisable to stop and visit the Castello Ursino. A structure placed in defense of the town below, located on the top of the homonymous mountain. The structure includes a high cylindrical tower, surrounded by very massive walls and by what were once the troops' quarters.
Once in the city, it is impossible not to go to the main street that divides the historic center from the seafront. Is called Aurelia state road and boasts a large front porch. The center is full of narrow and winding streets among which to get lost, hunting for typical shops. The architecture boasts numerous stone arches and hypnotic flowered balconies. From here it is possible to go to interesting historical and religious buildings. Space, therefore, for the beautiful towers for which Noli is known. There were 72 of them, as tradition reports, but of many, only four remain in perfect condition, clearly visible beyond the roofs of the houses.
The first along the route, entering from the north, is the Papana Tower, built in the XNUMXth-XNUMXth century outside the ancient walls. Continuing south, near the seafront, there is the Town Hall Tower, built at the end of the thirteenth century, rhyme almost completely intact and full of dovetail battlements. Next to the latter there is the Porta di Piazza, once the main access to the village, as well as the Palazzo del Comune, one of the most fascinating civil architectures of the place. The other two towers intact are that of the Quattro Canti (or Torre del Canto) e San Giovanni Tower. The first on a trapezoidal base and 38 meters high, the second placed on the outer walls, above the northern access gate.
All the other towers, of different conservation, were integrated into buildings of a later period, after being cut off. The bases of the structures, however, remained well recognizable. To the proposed list are added Torre Furry e Transylvania Tower, to visit certainly. Finally, it deserves particular attention Viale-Salvarezza Palace, built on previous medieval buildings at the behest of the senator of the Republic of GenoVaAntonio Viale.
What to eat in Noli
Sitting at the table in Noli is an experience. You are immersed in a sea of typical recipes of the area from which to choose. In any typical restaurant you will receive advice according to the palate. It will thus be possible to choose between sea bass al verde, bunettu da laete (classic spoon dessert), canestrelli, cannolini in broth, cappunadda, castagnassu, ciaval and crepes with pesto, among others.
Photo source: Noli: facebook.com/Comune-di-Noli-Ufficio-Turismo-134408256923274
