Manarola's History - Casa Marcella

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Manarola

Manarola is the second village of the Cinque Terre, from La Spezia to Genoa. It was founded in the thirteenth century and its name comes from an old "magna roea", a big wheel of the mill located in the village. The first evidence of the village, dating from the thirteenth century, are related to the events of the Fieschi, while in the sixteenth century we hear of his fervent resistance to pirate raids.

The main monument of the country, is the Church of San Lorenzo, which dates back to 1338 by the inhabitants of Manarola and Volastra, as the plaque on the facade of the church. The plant has three naves, while the facade is decorated with a rosette of twelve columns. Also important is the bell tower detached from the main body of the church probably because, originally, had defensive duties.

The castle of Manarola is now entirely disappeared, except for a few remnants of a bastion, probably dating back to periods before the thirteenth century, who were part of a unique fortress with the castle, completely disappeared today. Other remains are visible in the square castle.

Manarola's Nativity

Since 1976, during Christmas time, on the hill overlooking the village is set up the biggest illuminated nativity scene in the world. Handcrafted by Mr Mario Andreoli, retired railwayman, the characters are made up of thousands and thousands of lights mounted on special patterns that give the representation a unique charm to the world. In addition to the famous crib, at Easter, it is realized, on the same hill a bright Via Crucis.

For more information to visit www.parconazionale5terre.it