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Manarola

History and identity

Manarola is a compact, scenic village perched on a dark rocky promontory. The town originally developed along the Groppo stream, which is now covered. Renowned for its deep agricultural roots and strong sense of community, Manarola is world-famous for the geometric terraced hillsides dedicated to vineyards and olive groves.

Punti di interesse

PUNTA BONFIGLIO

The rocky promontory that offers Manarola’s most iconic postcard view.

Lined with benches, this scenic lookout provides the perfect spot to relax over the sea, while leading visitors toward the village’s historic hillside cemetery.

From the harbor, simply follow the paved walkway along the cliff toward Riomaggiore.

The route includes a few short climbs and steps.

Choose a morning visit for a quieter experience

MANAROLA MARINA

Framed by dramatic cliffs, this small harbor lacks a sandy beach but offers deep waters and concrete platforms perfect for swimming and cliff-diving. Along the main ramp, local fishermen’s boats are hauled up, creating a picture-perfect scene.

As you exit the station tunnel, follow Via Discovolo downhill toward the sea. From the harbor, a path continuing over the rocks leads to the nearby, sheltered inlet of Palaedo—a perfect spot for snorkeling

CHURCH OF SAN LORENZO (The Nativity of the Virgin Mary)

Built in 1338 in the Ligurian Gothic style, the Church of San Lorenzo features a beautiful Carrara marble rose window. Dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, it stands in the upper part of the village and serves as the historical and spiritual heart of the community.

Foto di Davide Crovara
From the train station, exit the tunnel and walk uphill along Via Discovolo. Follow the main street all the way to the top of the village.
The church is located in the upper square, overlooking the town. (About a 10-minute walk).

ORATORY OF THE DISCIPLINANTI (THE”Azzurri”)

A 15th-century gabled building facing the Church of San Lorenzo.

It originally served as the headquarters for a medieval lay confraternity dedicated to supporting the local community. 

MANAROLA ILLUMINATED NATIVITY SCENE (Tre Croci Hill)

The largest ecological Nativity scene in the world, created by Mario Andreoli and made up of hundreds of life-size figures built from recycled materials and lit by thousands of bulbs arranged across the entire terraced hillside.

🚶 How to see it and where to photograph it:

  • Classic viewpoint: from Via Discovolo or from the square of the Church of San Lorenzo, the view of the hillside is front-facing and exceptional.
  • Postcard shot: from Punta Bonfiglio, you can photograph the illuminated village with the Nativity scene in the background.

⚠️ Seasonal info: While the figures remain on the hillside year-round, the lighting display takes place only during the Christmas season, generally from December 8 until early February, turning on every day at dusk.

Foto di Davide Crovara

PIÈ DE CAMPU MILL

Documented since 1643, this historic watermill was used for centuries to grind grain and press local olives, powered by the rushing waters of the Groppo stream. Today, it stands as the perfect place to step back in time and discover Manarola’s deep rural heritage.

Foto di Daniela Cresci
Walk up Via Discovolo past the village center toward the upper district (Piè de Campu area).
It is about a 10-to-15-minute walk from the train station.

SANCTUARY OF NOSTRA SIGNORA DELLA SALUTE (Volastra)

This 12th-century Romanesque church sits in the hillside hamlet of Volastra, the famous “village of olive trees.” It is one of the five historic coastal sanctuaries of the region.

On foot from Manarola along trail 506 (about 2 km of steep ascent through the terraces, 45-60 minutes) or more comfortably by local bus. Check frequency and availability in advance.