Everything To Know: Liguria, Italy
Liguria, the crescent-shaped region of Northern Italy, is known for its cuisine and landscapes. This captivating area has so much to offer it’s difficult to know where to begin. If you would like guidance on the best places to go while in this region, check out my destination travel guide for Liguria, which has over 30 locations to experience every sense. But before you go to Italy, you should know some important things to help you better understand this place. I will delve into the art and architecture, cuisine, and culture and lifestyle. Continue reading to get glimpses of what makes Liguria so special.
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Table of Contents
1.Art and Architecture | 2.Cuisine | 3.Culture and Lifestyle | Takeaways
1. Art and Architecture
Maintaining medieval city layouts throughout most of the Ligurian region, you will find many caruggio, or narrow streets, dividing the stone buildings with elaborate facades. The architecture here is so stunning, and even boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Genoa- the Palazzi dei Rolli. Now many of the buildings function as museums and government offices, but they were once home to the wealthiest Genoese families. The churches here are also well worth noting. Cattedrale di San Lorenzo in Genoa features Gothic and Romanesque elements while the Church of San Pietro in Portovenere has strong Romanesque architecture while sitting perched on a cliff. Of course, the villages of Cinque Terre and Portofino are both known for their vibrantly colored homes, visible from the sea. Many of the art pieces you find in this region will have aspects of the sea and religious themes. All it takes is a walk in town to find yourself surrounded by art here.
This is the Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Genoa.
2. Cuisine
Liguria’s cuisine is deeply influenced by the coastal location and rich agricultural traditions. In a prime location for not only seafood but also nutrient-rich farming produce, you are sure to eat like kings and queens here. Of course, there are a few notable dishes that you won’t want to miss. If you want a list of my favorite restaurants to eat at, check out my destination guide here.
Pesto; originating from Genova, or Genoa, this sauce will knock you off your feet. Basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, olive oil, and a whole lotta love go into this generational recipe.
Focaccia; local Ligurian bread, known for its simplicity will excite your tastebuds like no other bread before. Try just the plain focaccia or focaccia di recco, which is filled with cheese!
Farinata; a thin, savory chickpea flour pancake cooked in wood-fired ovens and a street food staple. Hot and crispy, coming right up.
Seafood; enjoy some of the best mussels, anchovies, and squid you have ever had. Acciughe ripiene and fritto misto are popular seafood dishes.
Vegetarian; torta pasqualina and pansoti are local favorites with vegetables, pasta, herbs, and cheese.
When eating out, your lunch will typically be eaten between 12.30-14.30 and dinner between 19.30-21.00. Note that many restaurants close for a siesta between meals. It is also wise to make reservations for dinner, particularly on the weekend. You might find a coperto, or cover charge, for bread and table service on your bill, but it should be no more than a few euros. Round up the bill or leave around 5% if you feel like tipping.
This was a delicious piece of fresh salmon I had while in Genoa.
3. Culture and Lifestyle
Since the time of the Romans, Genoa was already a significant port, becoming a powerful maritime republic during the Middle Ages. Christopher Columbus was even born here, which speaks volumes to the deep nautical history of this coastal city. You can even find the deep influence of the sea with their nautical-themed traditions and festivals. There is strong cultural pride in these people, formerly its own republic, with Ligurian dialects still spoken by older generations. You will find the people of this region to be resilient and full of pride and independence. Today’s generations are still heavily influenced by the sea and maritime occupations, with a kind spirit and delicious cooking skills.
Boats in the Portofino harbor.
Takeaways
The Ligurian region is fascinating, picturesque, and delicious! Take a train along the coast, stop at the little villages, roam about the streets, and find yourself smiling in the fresh air. The art and architecture here have a historical and religious significance, which you will find everywhere. The cuisine is full of flavor and love. And the culture and lifestyle is still deeply rooted in its relation to the sea. Slowly travel through this area to get the most of the experience. If you find any of this useful, let me know! If you have questions, comments, or concerns, share them! My goal is for this to be a platform for like-minded travelers to share and help others. If you follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads, you will find that’s the easiest place to interact with a community of wanderers. On my YouTube channel, I will share tips, tricks, and lessons learned from each destination I go to, and my podcast will have similar content in a different format. I hope that you find this information helpful and use it as a starting point for your own wonderful, magical adventures! Happy wandering.