Colle di Nava
Colle di Nava: An Alpine Pass
Colle di Nava is an alpine pass located in the municipality of Pornassio, province of Imperia, in Liguria. With its altitude of 934 meters above sea level, the pass connects Arroscia and Alta Val Tanaro. It is situated on the main alpine range and separates two alpine subsections of the Ligurian Alps: the Ligurian Prealps to the east and the Marguareis Alps to the west. The pass is crossed by the State Road 28 of Colle di Nava, which connects Imperia to Mondovì and the province of Cuneo. There is a settlement named Nava on the pass, divided into two hamlets: Colle di Nava and Case di Nava.
Alpine Climate and Tourism
Colle di Nava is a mountain tourist center located just 30 km away from Imperia and the Riviera di Ponente. It enjoys a typical Alpine climate, with cold winters, frequent snowfalls, and cool summers. There are four hotels and two campsites on the pass. The area is also famous for the cultivation of lavender, called "Coldinava," from which cosmetic products are extracted.
Monuments and Places of Interest
Colle di Nava is known for the Alpine Shrine dedicated to the 4th Alpine Division "Cuneense." Every year, the national Alpine Rally takes place at Colle di Nava, attended by Alpini from all over Italy. The summer seminary of the Diocese of Albenga-Imperia is located in Case di Nava.
Forts of Nava
Colle di Nava was a significant alpine pass that enabled access to Piedmont from France. It was "guarded" by a system of fortifications from the 19th century, built by the Savoy dynasty and also used during Napoleon Bonaparte's era. The forts of Nava are still well-preserved and visible as a whole. The Central Fort is located on the summit and is crossed by the original road's primitive layout. The 'S' pathway, purposely built to defend it from enemy fire, and two drawbridges, now fixed, are still clearly visible. The Richermo Fort, southeast of Colle di Nava, is only a circular lookout fort, little more than an outpost. The Pozzanghi Fort, northwest of the pass, is a twin of the former fort, but on the opposite side of Colle di Nava. Recently, the surrounding area around Pozzanghi has been cleared of vegetation, and a convenient footpath through the woods, connecting it to the road between Nava and S, has been restored.
In conclusion, Colle di Nava is a place to visit for those who love nature and history. With monuments, places of interest, and a typically alpine climate, it offers several opportunities for discovery and entertainment for all tastes.
