THE ORIGINS
RIOMAGGIORE
Riomaggiore is the first village of the Cinque Terre encountered when arriving from La Spezia.
Its origins date back to around the 8th century, when groups of Greek refugees, fleeing persecution by the Byzantine Empire, settled in the area. The village truly began to develop in the 13th century, when the population concentrated along the course of the Rivus Major stream, from which the town takes its name.
During the Middle Ages, Riomaggiore came under the control of the Republic of Genoa, which exploited the land for agriculture, particularly for the cultivation of vineyards and olive trees.
MANAROLA
Manarola is one of the oldest villages in the Cinque Terre, located in Liguria. Its origins likely date back to the Roman era, but the village truly developed in the 12th century, when the inhabitants of Volastra, an older inland settlement, moved closer to the coast.
The village came under the control of the Republic of Genoa, which promoted its economic expansion through viticulture and fishing. Like in other Cinque Terre villages, the use of terraced fields became essential for wine production, particularly for the renowned 5 TERRE D.O.C.
CORNIGLIA
Corniglia is the only village in the Cinque Terre that is not directly by the sea; instead, it sits on a rocky promontory about 100 meters (328 feet) above sea level. Its origins date back to the Roman era, as suggested by its name, which may come from the Gens Cornelia, a noble Roman family that owned land in the area.
In the 12th century, Corniglia came under the control of the Fieschi family, a powerful Ligurian noble house. During this time, agriculture developed, with vineyards and olive trees cultivated on terraced hillsides. In 1276, the village was conquered by the Republic of Genoa, which incorporated it into its defensive and economic system.
VERNAZZA
Vernazza is considered one of the most beautiful villages in the Cinque Terre and is the only one with a natural harbor. Its origins date back to the Roman era, but the first historical document mentioning it dates to 1080. The name "Vernazza" may come from the Latin verna (native, local) or be linked to the Vernaccia grape variety, traditionally grown in the area.
In the 12th century, Vernazza became an important maritime outpost of the Republic of Genoa, which fortified it to protect against Saracen raids and used its port for military and economic purposes. The towers, walls, and the Doria Castle, which still dominates the village today, are remnants of this strategic period.
MONTEROSSO
Monterosso al Mare is the largest and westernmost village of the Cinque Terre. Its origins date back to the Roman era, but the first written record mentioning it dates to 1056. The name Monterosso may come from the reddish color of the local rocks or from the name of an ancient local family.
In the 12th century, the village came under the control of the Republic of Genoa, which fortified it to protect against Saracen raids. During this period, the Castle of Monterosso and several watchtowers were built, some of which are still visible today.