Casarza Ligure
Welcome to Casarza Ligure!
Hello everyone! Are you interested in discovering a little gem of Liguria? Today I'll talk to you about Casarza Ligure, a municipality of about 6,700 inhabitants located in the metropolitan city of Genoa, in Liguria.
Physical geography
Casarza Ligure is located in the beautiful Val Petronio, surrounded by mountains. Among the highest peaks are Mount Alpe, Mount Zenone, Mount Bocco, Mount Rocca Grande, Mount Rusparola, Mount Tregin, Mount Su Campegli, Mount Brana, Mount della Mora, Poggio Fontanin, and Mount Caddio.
Its main urban center is located along the SS 523 of Colle di Cento Croci, between the coastal municipality of Sestri Levante and the subsequent hillside municipality of Castiglione Chiavarese.
History
The history of Casarza Ligure initially referred to Candiasco, which was located on a different hill from the current position. In the 7th century, the Lombards conquered Liguria with their king Rotari.
Later on, Charlemagne donated the territory and port of Moneglia to the monks of the abbey of San Colombano in 774. Subsequently, the locality was under the jurisdiction of the curia of Sestri Levante starting from 1143.
Among the lords who contributed to the reconstruction of the first nucleus of Casarza Ligure were the Camezzana, close relatives of the Fieschi counts of Lavagna. Thanks to their kinship with the Fliscan signoria, they obtained many benefits from the popes Innocent IV and Adrian V.
With the passage to the Republic of Genoa from 1399, the locality became a feudal domain of the Spinola and Grimaldi. It was territorially subjected in the podesteria of Sestri Levante within the captaincy of Chiavari.
With the French domination of Napoleon Bonaparte, the municipality returned from December 2, 1797, to the department of Entella with the capital Chiavari, within the Ligurian Republic. From April 28, 1798, Casarza became the capital of the II canton of the jurisdiction of Gromolo and Vara.
In 1815, Casarza Ligure was incorporated into the Kingdom of Sardinia, under the province of Chiavari, after the Congress of Vienna in 1814. From 1859 to 1926, the territory was included in the III mandamento of Sestri Levante in the district of Chiavari of the then province of Genoa, in the Kingdom of Italy. In 1876, the fractions of Arzeno and Nascio detached, which were incorporated into the territory of Ne. In 1878, the municipality assumed its current name of Casarza Ligure.
Historical notes
During the 15th century, Casarza was an important commercial center, thanks to the production activities of silk. Moreover, the locality was famous for the cultivation of Spagna strawberries.
During World War II, Casarza Ligure suffered numerous bombings by the Luftwaffe. Many buildings were destroyed and many lives were lost.
In the 1950s and 1960s, with the arrival of the economic boom in Italy, Casarza became an industrial center. The main production concerned the food and clothing industries. Over the years, the municipality has experienced a reduction in its industrial activity, but has maintained its importance as an agricultural center.
What to see in Casarza Ligure
If you like places immersed in nature, Casarza Ligure is the right place for you. You can take long walks in the beautiful valley, discover ancient churches, and immerse yourself in its traditional architecture.
Among the churches, you cannot miss the Church of San Martino, the Church of San Nicolò di Bari, and the Church of San Giacomo Apostolo. These churches date back to the end of the 15th century/beginning of the 16th century, but were heavily damaged during World War II.
If you love agriculture, do not miss the opportunity to visit the Spagna strawberry crops. This type of strawberry is highly prized and exported all over the world. Alternatively, you could take a look at local craft activities, such as the production of baskets and wicker objects.
What to eat in Casarza Ligure
Ligurian cuisine is famous all over the world and is one of the highlights of Casarza Ligure. Historic places like Pizzeria Porto Bello, Trattoria da Ugo, and Pasticceria Berchi are just some of the places where you can taste real local cuisine.
Casarsa specialties include Genovese pesto, focaccia, farinata, and basil. If you love strong flavors, you cannot miss the milk and pepper condiment in Zoagli style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Casarza Ligure is a fascinating locality that combines history, art, culture, nature, and delicious cuisine. If you love Liguria and want to discover lesser-known but equally interesting places, Casarza Ligure is the perfect choice. We can't wait to help you plan your next adventure in beautiful Italy!
