Alassio
Welcome to Alassio: an oasis of beauty on the Riviera di Ponente
Located along the inlet between Capo Mele and Punta Murena on the coast of the Riviera di Ponente, Alassio is a charming Northern Italian tourist city. Here, the mild climate that characterizes Liguria offers the opportunity to enjoy a lively seaside life and lush hilly nature. Let's discover together the wonders of this fascinating destination through a brief tourist guide.
Alassio: where the sea and the mountains meet
The territory
Alassio is divided into seven zones: Fenarina, Borgo Barusso, Centro, Borgo Coscia, Regione ai Monti, Cavia, and Vegliasco. Each zone is characterized by its own natural and architectural charm. The city is famous for the small and equipped harbor "Luca Ferrari," an area to enjoy the sea and sea breeze. The hilly areas of Cavia and Vegliasco, on the other hand, are the ideal place for those who want to walk along nature trails.
Mountains
Among the peaks of the surrounding area, Mount Bignone stands out for its suggestive beauty. Thanks to its rocks and infinite paths, including the path that leads to the summit at 523 meters above sea level, Mount Bignone offers a breathtaking view that represents the perfect place to enjoy a romantic sunset.
Climate
Alassio's mild climate makes it a tourist attraction all year round. During the winter, one can enjoy the sea and panoramic views, while during the summer, one can take shelter under the shade of trees in the hills.
Origins of the name and history
Origins of the name
According to legend, the name Alassio derives from the name of Adelasia, daughter of Emperor Otto I of Saxony. Adelasia would have eloped with a squire named Aleramo del Monferrato, and the couple would have settled on the hills of "Alaxio" or "Alascio," giving rise to the lineage of the Aleramici. The municipal coat of arms features the image of a tower with Adelasia on the battlements.
History
The foundation of Alassio, known as "Alascio," dates back to between the 10th and 11th centuries. In the vicinity of the Church of Sant'Anna ai Monti, the first residential nucleus, the "Burgum Alaxii," arose, while other family nuclei settled on the hill behind, near the current borgata Madonna delle Grazie. Here, one can still admire one of the oldest coats of arms of Alassio.
The fiefdom of the 11th century was in the possession of the Benedictine Order of the Abbey of San Martino dell'isola Gallinara, and later came under the control of Albenga, which purchased it from the religious in 1303. In 1521, due to frequent pirate raids, the first enclosing walls were built to defend the residential nucleus.
Alassio became part of the territories of the Republic of Genoa, participating in the war against France in 1528. It obtained wide autonomy from Genoa, particularly in the economic and commercial sector. In 1540, it became the seat of the local podesteria, and the Republic of Genoa encouraged commercial exchanges with the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Sicily, Sardinia, and France. Alassio thus became an important commercial center, especially for the collection and trade of red coral.
Tourism in Alassio
What to visit
Alassio offers numerous tourist attractions for its visitors. The city is famous for its beaches, characterized by crystal clear waters and fine sand. The Muretto beach, in the heart of Alassio, is one of the most famous and enchanting, while the Scaletta beach, near the harbor, offers a more tranquil atmosphere.
Among the cultural attractions, one can visit the Church of Sant'Anna ai Monti, one of the oldest places of worship in the city, and the Saracen Tower, a defensive construction from the 16th century located in Punta Murena.
Events and activities
The city organizes numerous events and festivals throughout the year. In recent years, musical events such as the International Music Festival organized by the Albenga Classica Foundation and appointments related to the theater, such as the Adolescence Theater Festival, have been introduced.
For nature lovers, the city offers several trails, including the Heritage Trail, which runs along the coast to discover the city's rich historical and natural treasures.
For sports enthusiasts, Alassio offers numerous activities, including kitesurfing, windsurfing, and golf.
In conclusion, Alassio is an oasis of beauty situated on the Italian coast. Here, the sea and mountains meet, creating a unique and fascinating environment. The city offers numerous tourist attractions and cultural and gastronomic events. Whether for a relaxing beach vacation or a nature discovery, Alassio is definitely a destination to visit.
