Discovering Pigna, Sanremo's medieval town, and ancient “Funtanassa”

Accompanied by a tour guide the visit will delight visitors with a unique stroll into the historic center of Sanremo, rich in history, buildings, squares and gardens. So close to the city center, but very little known and appreciated.

Established around the year 1000, the ancient original Sanremo is called Pigna (Pine cone) for its characteristic streets and medieval fortifications in the image of the scales of a pine cone. The original village has expanded and strengthened until the sixteenth century to protect from pirate attacks. Nowadays, Pigna begins at fourteenth-century Santo Stefano's Gate, a stone arch in Gothic style, a link between modern and old city.

The clinging residential complex presents in concentric rings with walkways, courtyards, arches, fountains and staircases. Once past the gates, through the Rivolte di San Sebastiano, characterized by beautiful vaults, one reaches Dolori square (Square of Sorrows), so called because the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Seven Sorrows had once its headquarters in the nearby Oratorio di San Sebastiano.

The visit will begin at San Siro Cathedral, a Romanesque church and the most important religious building in Sanremo, built in the twelfth century on the remains of a small early Christian church. Here the guide will explain about Roman Matuzia, the four churches and a precious fountain.

Then it will move along the ancient Via Julia Augusta, entering Cassini Square, and then, through San Sebastiano's gate, entering Pigna; here visitors will be able to see one of the most special items of the visit: the Funtanassa, recently renovated after a long process of cleaning and restoration. An ancient cistern collecting pure spring water, Funtanassa has a barrel vaulted ceiling and its walls are covered with stalactites and stalagmites of different shapes and colors. 

Afterwards, visitors will climb to San Costanzo Church and then higher up to Regina Elena gardens, which dominate the whole city. The visit will continue, going back down through Santa Maria's gates, fourteenth-century Capitolo square, and, finally, Dolori square.

The visit will take place on March 24th, April 14th and 28th at 4pm

For more information: call Marco Macchi 338 1375423, liguriadascoprire.it