Gulf of Poets
“To those who come from the sea, the port of Venus appears on the shore, and here in the hills draped in olive trees, it is said that even Minerva forgot, in such sweetness, her homeland Athens...” With these verses, Francesco Petrarca celebrated Portovenere in 1338..
The Gulf of Poets, framed by the picturesque Ligurian coast, is a delight for the eyes and the soul. This stretch of sea offers a symphony of colors, with crystal-clear waters blending into the lush greenery of the surrounding hills.
Lerici, with its charming historic center and the Castle of San Terenzo, dominates like a pearl on the coast, while Portovenere, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants with steep cliffs rising from the turquoise waters of the channel, creating an extraordinary scenic spectacle. The traditional colorful houses of Portovenere, reflecting in the water, paint a picturesque and vibrant picture. The Church of San Pietro, perched on a rocky spur, dominates the scene with its architectural elegance and offers a spectacular panoramic view. The islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto add a touch of mystery and beauty, with their pristine nature and historical vestiges.
Navigating through the Channel of Portovenere means embarking on a path steeped in history and culture that, over the centuries, has inspired poets and artists such as Lord Byron, Shelley, Montale, and Petrarca.
