Lorsica

Discovering Lorsica: the town of damask silk

Let me introduce you to Lorsica, a scattered town located in the Metropolitan City of Genoa in Liguria. With a population of 406 inhabitants, Lorsica is famous for its artisanal production of damask silk and its slate quarries. The city hall is located in the hamlet of Figarolo.

Physical geography

The town of Lorsica is located in the Fontanabuona valley, near the Tirello stream. Some places such as Costafinale, Scorticata and Pian della Chiesa are part of the Enclave and exclave of Barbagelata, an area that extends into the Trebbia valley and partly into the Aveto valley. The peaks of the territory include Mount Pietrabianca, Mount Larnaia, Mount Rondanara and Mount Verzi.

Lorsica: The municipality of damask silk and the surrounding mountains.

History

The history of Lorsica dates back to 1174 when it became a feudal domain of the Malaspina family and later of the Fieschi. In 1433, the Fliscan family ceded the fief to the Republic of Genoa, where the production of silk and damask began to flourish thanks to the collaboration of Genoese artisans.

During the French domination of Napoleon Bonaparte in 1797, Lorsica was included in the department of Golfo del Tigullio, with Rapallo as its capital. In 1815, Lorsica became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia under the division of Genoa, and during World War II, Barbagelata was important as an outpost for the Italian Resistance.

Symbols

The coat of arms and the flag of Lorsica were granted by the decree of the President of the Republic no. 736 on 27 February 1980. The coat of arms depicts a rampant bear, which could derive from the ancient toponym of the town. The stars correspond to the Little Bear.

In short, if you are looking for a quiet town with an interesting history, Lorsica might be your ideal destination. From here you can admire the peaks of the surrounding mountains, discover the traditional silk production, and explore the symbols of the town.

Fabio Marino
Wrote by Fabio Marino
Updated Thursday, Jan 26, 2023