From an ancient naval base to the wine production facility and tourism point
Vernazza takes its name from the Latin word verna (meaning "native").
The first written records of the village (Castrum Vernatio) appeared in 1080 describing it as the naval base for the powerful Obertenghi family. During the XIII century The Republic of Genoa took formal control of the town and reinforced it by using as a critical stronghold, fleet station, and trade port. The church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia has been one of the first builds that we can still admire today (1318). Then, from XIV to XVII century, Genoese started to build extensive fortification (Including Belforte-Doria castle and the famous cylindrical tower)to defend themselves against frequent, terrifying Saracen pirate raids. In 1797 Vernazza was Annexed under Napoleonic rule and incorporated into the Department of the Gulf of Venus serving as an administrative center.
The stunning, steep terraced vineyards that surround Vernazza were literally carved from bare rock by generations of locals. The famous local wine, historically dubbed vernaccia (meaning "local"), is the bedrock of the village's agricultural history, demanding back-breaking labor to maintain the dry-stone walls against fierce sea winds.
Up until the mid-20th century, Vernazza was an isolated fishing and farming community. The town gradually opened up to the outside world when German hikers(traveling by train)began seeking out spare rooms to rent. Today, the village retains its authentic Ligurian charm with colorful pastel houses faced on the picturesque harbour.
