Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante

This quite town located in Liguria between Genova and Riamaggiore deserves more credits for its beauty. This small fishing town has a quite big history lying at it’s hills and serenity at the sea side.

1) Bay of Silence: As you walk through the town first it’s T-shape structure surprises you but this shape helps to a hide the Bay of Silence. This small bay has a tiny sandy beach opposed to other beaches in Sestri Levante. Although it’s quite known by tourists as well the crystal clear waters and the surrounding colourful buildings gives a comfort and peace. You may find some local places of the classical Italian cuisine. 

2) Gelato and more Gelato: Although the town is quite small it has more gelateria shops and most of towns in Italy. I would recommend Tema Gelati e Molto di Piu. There are many different flavours to be tried!

3) Capuccini Monastery: This monastery dates back to 1688 and it is located in a fantastic location, a bit uphill on Baia del Silenzio, with stunning views on the bay. The convent is still active and there are a few monks "Cappuccini" living there, celebrating a public Mass every day.

View from the church

4) The Castle and San Nicolo Church: There is a small castle, whose foundations date to about 1089 AD overlooking Sestri Levante. During the ensuing decades, like other towns and villages along this coast, it was subjected to brutal raids by Saracens and pirates.  The Castel was extended and fortified in 1145.  The town itself was also encircled with walls containing four gates, cirtually none of which remain today.  Inside the walls, between 1151 AD and 1190 AD, the first major church, Chiesa San Nicola, was built.  It remains in sacred operation to this day.  Further fortifications, in the shape of two other castles were built, one in 1310 AD, and the other, the Castle of the Eagle, in 1440. 

San Nicolo Church

5) City Center: The city center is constituted by one main street which is “XXVI Aprile” which is full of shops, small cafes and ice cream shops. There are may tiny streets crossing the main street. As you walk in the city center remember to look up to colourful buildings surrounding you. 

View of Old Town