Vezzano Ligure
Welcome to Vezzano Ligure: An Overview of the Municipality
Welcome to Vezzano Ligure - a beautiful municipality located in the Province of La Spezia in Liguria, Italy. Vezzano is a central town located between the Val di Magra, the Val di Vara, and the Gulf of La Spezia. Currently, the municipality has a population of around 7,131 inhabitants and is part of the Regional Natural Park of Montemarcello-Magra-Vara.
The territory of Vezzano extends over a large area, which includes a hill where the municipal capital is located, as well as the plain of the Val di Magra, the Val di Vara, and the surrounding territories near the Gulf of La Spezia. These are divided into two ancient fortified villages - Vezzano Inferiore and Superiore - which are connected by a ridge road.
The Municipality of Vezzano Ligure is classified as seismic zone 3-low in the Italian Seismic Classification. However, the territory is of great historical importance, so much so that experts hypothesize the presence of prehistoric Ligurian settlements or even a Castellaro (fortification) already before the Roman Empire.
The History of Vezzano Ligure
Regarding the history of the municipality, the very name of Vezzano reveals its Roman habitation phases. It is believed that the name Vezzano derives from the name 'Vectius', a specific name of a noble Roman citizen of Sabine family who owned properties and income in this territory. However, there is also a hypothesis that the settlement has Ligurian origins, from the term Vect-iani meaning the top of Giano, and that its foundation is prior to the Roman conquest of Liguria and even prior to the constitution of Luna (Roman colony).
In the Early Middle Ages, the village of Vezzano probably originated from a fortified road outpost on the pass that connected the Gulf of La Spezia with the Magra. Controlling the outpost allowed to exercise, in fact, and later lawfully a territorial and political power. The "Vezzano" belonged to the new class of castellani, having land and manors at their disposal, they turned into "domini".
The first historical document that expressly mentions the city of Vezzano is a deed dated May 19, 963 in which the Emperor Otto I of Saxony assigns the castle, fortifications, and court to the Diocese of Luni.
Attractions of Vezzano Ligure
Today, Vezzano Ligure is a charming town that has a lot to offer its visitors. First of all, there are the beautiful hills that surround the town. The panoramic view from the hill of the municipal capital is truly stunning: from the hiking trails you can admire the surrounding territory.
Moreover, the Municipality has preserved its historical and cultural heritage through the urban structure. For example, in the streets of the ancient fortified villages of Vezzano Inferiore and Superiore, it is possible to admire numerous churches, palaces, and farmhouses built between the 16th and 18th centuries. These constructions reflect the Ligurian architecture of the time, with stone walls and white marble portals.
It is worth a visit to the Fortezza della Brunella, which dominates the valley of the Magra River, a castle built in the Middle Ages, owned by the Malaspina Family.
For those who love nature, there are numerous parks and nature reserves, such as the Regional Natural Park of Montemarcello-Magra-Vara, where long hikes or bike rides can be taken.
Events and Festivals in Vezzano Ligure
The Municipality of Vezzano Ligure is famous for some festivals and events that take place every year. One of the most important is the Feast of the Patron Saint, which is celebrated on August 16 with fireworks and concerts in the main square of the town.
Moreover, the Municipality is famous for its cinema festival, the International 'Visionaries' Film Festival, which takes place every year in April at the Verdi Theater in Vezzano Inferiore. This event attracts visitors from all over the world and is very popular among movie lovers.
What to Eat in Vezzano Ligure
A visit to Vezzano Ligure would not be complete without tasting some typical dishes of the Ligurian cuisine. The gastronomy of this region is known worldwide for the freshness of its ingredients and its simplicity.
Among the dishes that you absolutely must try are the famous 'trenette al pesto'. This local dish is a variant of linguine with pesto. Moreover, there are the 'trofie al sugo di noci', a first course prepared with a sauce of walnuts and ricotta, and the 'trofie al sugo di funghi porcini', prepared with fresh mushrooms collected in the local woods.
Finally, for the sweet tooth, there is the famous 'torta di Vezzano', a typical dessert of the town prepared with flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
Conclusions
In summary, Vezzano Ligure is a charming place that deserves to be visited: its panoramic position and its historical and cultural heritage make it truly unique. Do not miss the opportunity to taste the dishes of the Ligurian cuisine and to participate in the numerous festivals and events that take place throughout the year.
