Molini di Triora
A town immersed in nature
Molini di Triora is a small town with 617 inhabitants, located in the province of Imperia, Liguria, and surrounded by nature. It is situated at the junction of the Argentina and Capriolo rivers, at the foot of a steep ridge, between wooded foothills descending from the nearby Triora.
Molini's territory is rich in water, which is believed to be the origin of its name, and boasts numerous peaks, including Mount Monega, Cima dell'Ortica, Rocca dell'Agnello, and Cima Bareghi. Molini di Triora is crossed by important communication routes that connect it to the surrounding valleys.
The town has a climate that is halfway between subcontinental and low mountain. Summers are generally mild, while winters can be cold and damp with frequent nightly frosts and snowfall. According to the climatic averages of 1961-90, the coldest month is January, with an average minimum temperature of -1° and a maximum of +4°, while the warmest month is July, with an average maximum temperature of +24° and a minimum of +13°.
History of Molini di Triora
Molini di Triora has an ancient history, with the first historical records of the village dating back to around the year 1000. In the Middle Ages, the town was part of the territories of the Lascaris of Ventimiglia. From the second half of the 13th century, it became part of the territories of the Republic of Genoa, which subjected the valley to the podesteria of Triora.
Over time, the town became an important local center thanks to the construction of 23 mills along the Argentina and Capriolo rivers. These were of considerable interest to the Genoese Republic and the podesteria of Triora.
However, dissatisfaction grew among the different villages of Molini, Andagna, and Corte, caused by the interests of Triora in the trade of Triticum. On May 2, 1654, the three villages declared local independence from Triora. After receiving permission from the Republic's Senate, each village was granted its administrative and fiscal autonomy, remaining under the territorial control of the podesteria of Triora.
Culture and traditions
The town of Molini di Triora boasts a cultural and artistic heritage of great value, including the parish church of San Giovanni Battista, built in the 18th century on the ruins of a previous 16th-century chapel. Other places of interest are the bridge of San Giovanni, the ancient bridge, and the fountain of the Fairies.
Molini di Triora is also famous for its traditions related to Carnival, when the wonderful performance of the "Dance of the Ondine" takes place. In August, instead, the patronal feast of San Giovanni Battista is celebrated.
Typical cuisine
The cuisine of Molini di Triora is characterized by a great variety of traditional dishes, such as chestnut polenta, Ligurian rabbit, testaroli with pesto, dried figs, and friscieu. Among the most precious cheeses of the area are caprino and robiola.
Molini di Triora is also renowned for its sweet products, including graffe and meliga amaretti.
Tourism
Molini di Triora is an ideal destination for those who wish to spend a holiday in contact with nature. The area offers many opportunities for both hiking and cycling, amidst breathtaking panoramas and unspoiled nature.
The town is also an interesting destination for those who love culture and history, thanks to its places of interest such as the parish church of San Giovanni Battista and the ancient bridge.
In summer, numerous events take place, including the patronal feast of San Giovanni Battista and the August Festival, which attract many tourists.
Conclusion
Molini di Triora is a small town immersed in nature where it is possible to spend a holiday dedicated to sports and relaxation. The area offers many opportunities for excursions and a cuisine rich in typical dishes and products.
The town is also characterized by an ancient history and a strong cultural identity, evidenced by its monuments and traditions. Much loved by tourists, Molini di Triora represents an ideal destination for those who wish to discover the deep and authentic Liguria.
