Aquila d'Arroscia
Discovering Aquila d'Arroscia
Welcome to the discovery of Aquila d'Arroscia, a small municipality in the Imperia province of Liguria, with a population of approximately 141 inhabitants. The municipal headquarters is located in the picturesque hamlet of Piazza, surrounded by the lush nature of the Ligurian Alps.
The Physical Geography of Aquila d'Arroscia
The town of Aquila d'Arroscia is located at the border between the Pennavaira and Ferraia valleys, just below the Rocca del Bozzaro, which rises up to 948 meters above sea level. The municipal territory is also characterized by Mount Torretta, which rises up to 852 meters. One of the natural attractions of the area is the artificial Lake Ferraia, located 780 meters above sea level. This lake was built in 1998 as an irrigation work for the municipalities of Aquila d'Arroscia, Borghetto d'Arroscia, and Ranzo.
The dam of the artificial lake is 10 meters high and is surrounded by birch and beech woods. Further downstream is a waterfall, with a vertical drop of 25 meters. The waterfall dries up during the summer when water is collected in the artificial basin pipes. Human and animal remains from prehistoric times have also been found near this waterfall, in a cave called "Arma do Cüppà."
The History of Aquila d'Arroscia
The territory of Aquila d'Arroscia has been inhabited since the Upper Paleolithic, as evidenced by the caves in the area, which were used for butchery and temporary storage of products. In the Neolithic and in the Age of Metals, the Ferraia valley became the main source of coal.
During the period of the Roman Empire, the colombaira olive was cultivated in the territory and was later replaced by the Taggiasca olive variety, introduced by the Order of Saint Benedict in the 11th century. In 653, after the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the territory of Aquila and the Arroscia valley came under the control of the Lombards.
Subsequently, the village of Aquila and other places in Arroscia became part of the Clavesana Marquisate from 1202. It was the marquises who erected the local castle around the 11th century on a rocky summit of a hill near the village. The toponym Aquila would derive from the toponym of the eagle that usually settled near the hill, later called "dell'Aquila."
In 1328, the castle and the village were occupied by Marquis Giorgio Del Carretto, who acquired ownership from Clavesana vassal, Oberto Cepolla. Later, Aquila became part of the marquisate territory again. In 1386, the territory of Aquila and part of the Arroscia valley came under the direct control of the Republic of Genoa, which included Aquila in the vicariate of Ranzo and then in the captaincy of Pieve di Teco.
Events and Tourist Attractions in Aquila d'Arroscia
Aquila d'Arroscia is an ideal place for nature and quiet lovers, away from the chaos of the cities. Guests can enjoy long walks in nature among the hills and olive fields. Cycling trips are another very popular activity, allowing tourists to explore the area and discover nearby alpine landscapes.
The village also hosts several special events during the year, such as the Pinzimonio Festival, a traditional celebration that honors the fresh summer vegetables, and the Palio dei Borghi, a folkloristic event in which the different villages of the territory compete in a series of games.
Throughout the year, Aquila d'Arroscia also offers numerous cultural attractions, including its splendid historic buildings, such as the Castle of Aquila. The castle, located on a hilltop, offers a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.
What to Eat in Aquila d'Arroscia
The territory of Aquila d'Arroscia is famous for its agricultural products, especially extra virgin olive oil, known for its high quality. White truffle, a highly appreciated delicacy, is another local product that can also be found in the local restaurants.
In addition, the area offers a wide variety of typical Ligurian cuisine dishes. Borage ravioli, zucchini flower fritters, Genoese lasagna, and farinata are just some examples of our refined culinary tradition.
Conclusions
Aquila d'Arroscia is a hidden gem of Liguria, with its natural beauty and millennia-old history. Visitors can enjoy long walks in nature, explore the splendid historic buildings, and taste the delicious local culinary specialties. Come and discover these treasures of Aquila d'Arroscia!
