Costarainera
Costarainera: a hidden treasure in Liguria
Costarainera is a small Italian municipality with a population of 773 inhabitants located in the province of Imperia, Liguria. The city is situated on a hillside facing the sea at an altitude of 240 m above sea level. Costarainera enjoys a particularly healthy and sunny microclimate, thanks to the shelter from the Tramontana winds offered by Mount Saccarello and the action of the nearby Ligurian Sea.
Geographic location
Thanks to its excellent geographic location, Costarainera is an ideal place to live. The old hilltop village and the modern area (Paorelli region) located on the sea offer each their own unique beauty. The Paorelli region, now predominantly residential-touristic, hosts viticulture and then floriculture for the mild climate. The highest point in the region offers a breathtaking view of the Ligurian Sea, where on clear winter mornings it is possible to see Corsica, the mountains of Tuscany, and Provence up to Cap Camarat.
History
Costarainera has an ancient and interesting history dating back to the 13th century, when the Raineri family founded an ancient holding that was called Costa dei Raineri, then transformed over the centuries into Costa Rainera and into the current form of Costarainera. In the past, the municipal territory was divided into two administrative areas. The easternmost part was administered by the Lengueglia family and subject to the community of Lingueglietta. The remaining western part was subject to the community of Cipressa and linked to the captaincy of Porto Maurizio, in the Republic of Genoa.
The city was often at the center of controversies related to borders and possessions. In the eighteenth century, the two municipalities of Costarainera Orientale and Costarainera Occidentale were created. In 1802, with the administrative reform of the Ligurian government, the two distinct municipalities were merged into a single municipality of Costarainera.
Cultural heritage
If you visit Costarainera, you can discover its cultural heritage, such as the heliotherapy hospital, which dates back to the early 20th century. The building was renowned until a couple of decades ago and is located in the old village on the hillside of the city. You can also visit the archaeological site of Castello, where you can see the traces of the Roman settlement in the territory.
Food and wine
Costarainera's cuisine is authentic and tasty. Some of the local dishes to try include onion soup and vegetable pie. Costarainera is also famous for its wine production, particularly Vermentino, which will surprise you with its fresh and fruity taste.
Recreational activities
Costarainera is a lively and fun city. There are many recreational activities to choose from, such as horseback riding, cycling tours, and near the city, there are many Ligurian beaches to explore. The city also offers many events, such as the International Chamber Music Festival and the International Kite Festival.
In summary, Costarainera is a wonderful place to live or spend your holidays. Not only does it offer beautiful scenery, but also a rich history, enviable culinary culture, and many recreational activities to keep you engaged. It's not hard to understand why Costarainera is considered a hidden treasure of Liguria.
