Tavole
Tavole: Where History and Religion Meet
Tavole is a hamlet in the municipality of Prelà, a small town located in the province of Imperia in Liguria, Italy. Although it is a hamlet, Tavole has a separate history and personality from the rest of the town. Until 1928, it was considered an autonomous municipality and has maintained a distinct culture and heritage. This small gem of a town contains some religious architectures dating back to medieval times.
History
The name Tavole derives from the ancient art of preparing woods, called tavole, for the ships of Oneglia and Porto Maurizio. This ancient village was a possession of the diocese of Albenga-Imperia in the 12th century and was subjected to the Clavesana marquis and the Lascaris of Ventimiglia. Later, it passed to the Grimaldi, then to the Doria family and, finally, to Duke Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy in 1579. With the Napoleonic domination, it became a municipality in the Ligure Republic and in 1818 it was united to the municipal territory of Prelà as a hamlet.
Religious Architectures
The parish church of Santissima Annunziata is one of the most important monuments in Tavole. Originally, the church, built in the 15th century, was dedicated to St. Augustine. In 1729, the structure was enlarged and rebuilt in a Baroque style according to the project of the famous architect Giacomo Filippo Marvaldi, known for similar works throughout Liguria. On the main façade is a large fresco representing the Annunciation, which is why the church was later renamed, although the original name remains on the bell tower with a floor of mullioned windows and biforas and with its square, which still has columns and capitals from the medieval period.
Life in Tavole
Tavole, although small, has many attractions. The quietness and beauty of the surrounding countryside make this small hamlet a perfect place for a pleasant walk or bike ride. In the village, there are also some small shops and artisanal workshops where visitors can find typical products of the area such as olive oil, wine, honey, and handmade products.
The village is also famous for its traditions and annual fairs. One of these is the Sagra del Cardo, a festival that celebrates the harvest of a type of thistle typical of the area. The festival includes tastings of local food, live music, and games for children. Other village events include the Carnival party and the feast of the patron, St. Augustine, which takes place in mid-August.
Conclusions
Tavole is a small gem in the countryside of Liguria, where history blends perfectly with modern life. The touches of medieval and Baroque architecture of the churches will make you appreciate even more the art and beauty of the past. You will enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding countryside and taste the local products together with the locals. Your visit to Tavole will be a wonderful and unforgettable experience.
