Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre

The Beauty of the Cinque Terre was not always appreciated, not even by locals due to its isolated and hidden position. It was not until 1874 that a train tunnel was built through the mountains and connected first all five towns to each other and then the rest of Italy.

Terrace overlooking the sea.

From the terrace we can see the train station and the town above.

The cliff underneath with clear blue water.

The train going through the tunnel.

This is another view from the hill of the train station.

Gorgeous cliff

On the right, there is construction going on to fix the most famous trail Via dell'Amore connecting Riomaggiore to Manoralo.

The trail was shut down in 2012 due to a rockslide.

Workers working on repairing the trail. You might not be able see them but they are on the left side corner way on top.

Here is a better view of the workers hanging of rope while doing their work.

From there we went up to the residence area up on the hill.

The view from there is amazing! Loquat orchard underneath.

Loquat tree and vegetation in the area.

View from the terrace above.

This area is very tranquil because it is a residential area so there are barely anybody there.

Stairs going up for even better views.

The marina below.

More walkways...

More stairs going up...

Wall from the Castle of Riomaggiore.

One of the two tower of the castle.

Built in the 1200’s as protection from the constant raids by pirates, it consists of two towers and a wall connecting them. It was constructed in 1260 by the marquises Turcotti and was completed by the Genoese in the 15th/16th century after the dominion of Fieschi family. In the 1800’s with the arrival of Napoleon and the belief that the dead should not be buried within the town walls, it was reutilized to serve as a cemetery. Now used as an educational center.

In the center is the Sanctuary of our Lady of Montenero.

According to the legend, a Byzantine icon was hidden in the church to protect it from the invasion of the Longobards. In the very place where there was rediscovery of the icon, a source or water gushed forth and it was decided that this is where the church was to be built.

Courtyard from the castle overlooking the sea with fabulous vistas

Wood cross with inscription at the bottom: In the 19th century of human redemption the fervent people of Riomaggiore, in the mission preached by the Passionate fathers. Erected in July 17, 1933.

The Castle provides a magnificent view of the town below.

NEXT.... Day 7-Walk tour continuation