Its foundation is due to the downstream movement of the inhabitants of Volastra, an ancient Roman settlement that today represents an iconic viewpoint on the hill top, surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. The first papers of Manarola are dated from the second half of the XIII century when it was under Genoa Republic rule . During this historical period, the inhabitants began to model the landscape one terracing after another to the gorgeous view we admire today . The city became fastly one of the major producers of wine and oil on the coast: did you know that the famous “Sciacchetrà” was born here? It s a sweet and harmonious wine that usually displays aromas of honey, herbs ,dried fruit, and apricot jam, with underlying notes of hazelnut and toffee…You should have a taste before leaving this place!
Talking about the evolution of the urban side, the church of S.Lorenzo is maybe the oldest build of the village(1338), together with the Bastion used as a defensive fortification against pirates raids…
Today Manarola is a charming romantic jewel with its amazing view and vibrant colors. You can choose between admiring its wildest side walking along the trails or enjoying the centre side where the Harbour is. In Marina fishermen still moor their boats among the rocks and from here you can easily reach Punta Bonfiglio to enjoy a full wonderful view of the whole village…
