DOLCEACQUA – THE GEM OF NERVIA VALLEY

Anna Luebke - Aug 17, 2009
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Dolceacqua is one of the most picturesque villages in Italy. It lies in the Nervia valley and its history goes a long way back. It is an ideal destination for a Saturday family trip or even a romantic weekend getaway. 

Dolceacqua is a charming medieval village in the Nervia valley. Its setting is unbelievably charming. An old little village with a river meandering through, an impressive castle dominating the scenery and a calm atmosphere filled with memories of past centuries. It is an ideal place for a quick weekend trip, especially if your interests lie in history, romantic winding streets and impressive art and architecture. The river Nervia flows directly through the middle of the village.

The oldest part, called Terra, is dominated by the Doria castle. The newest part of the village, Borgo, is situated on the opposite bank of the river. Both banks are connected via a bridge which found its way to many works of art, most famous of which is that by Claude Monet, who painted it in 1884. He adored the view and the bridge in his own words was “a jewel of lightness”. The village is also well known for numerous vineyards as well as producing quality wine. The local Rossese di Dolceacqua was even the favorite drink of the emperor Napoleon. The history of the village dates back to 1151.

The Doria Castle dates to the 12th century as well. Since its foundation, the castle has undergone many transformations. It has grown massively and especially in the 14th century became a rather elegant fortified residence with expensive furnishing and artistic frescoes. Unfortunately, it was partially destroyed in the 18th century during the Austrian succession war. Nowadays, the castle serves many cultural purposes, including summer performances.

There are many buildings of great historical value, among which there is the San Giorgio’s church, built in the Romanesque style. There are also the remains of the Agostinian Father’s Monastery – a proof that Dolceacqua once was a religious centre as well. In the Borgo quarter, tourists may head for the oratory of San Sebastiano, which features a wooden sculpture ascribed to Maragliano. The village seems out of this world. It still retains old traditions, among which the famous Festa della Michetta is, dating back to the 16th century. Its setting seems almost kitsch in its fairytale-like character, but Dolceacqua is undoubtedly a place not to be missed for anyone visiting the area.

Related: THE BIZARRE & ADVENTUROUS: TOURS BY EX-CONVICTS 

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Comments


  1. WHERE THE HELL IS THE NERVIA VALLEY IN ITALY ?

    (France)
  2. Nervia Valley

    Dolceacqua is a comune in the Province of Imperia in the Italian region Liguria, located about 120 km southwest of Genoa and about 35 km west of Imperia, on the border with France.

  3. Vacation

    During my holiday in Italy and France few weeks ago I spent one day in Dolceacqua and must say - wonderful place. The lanes are so narrow that you can hardly open opposite doors. The houses are so close to each other that it looks the whole old city is one giant building. Of course the Monet's bridge is nice and romantic. Locals are also quite proud of the Nepoleon's wine that they produce. Great place!

    (Czech Republic)

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