Hey Lykkers, have you ever heard of Savona? Tucked away in the heart of Italy's stunning Riviera, it's one of those places that doesn't always make it onto the typical tourist radar. Many head straight for the famous beaches and sparkling waters nearby, but Savona holds a wealth of history, culture, and charm waiting to be explored.
For those who find themselves in this quaint port town—whether stopping by on a cruise or making a day trip from the surrounding areas—Savona is a city that definitely deserves more attention.
First Impressions: The Towers of Savona
Starting at the port, Savona greets visitors with its iconic landmarks. The Torre Leon Pancaldo, or "La Torretta," is the city's symbol. Built in medieval times, this little tower honors Leon Pancaldo, a mariner who sailed the world alongside Magellan. At the top of the tower sits a statue of Nostra Signora della Misericordia, the city's patron saint.
Just a short walk from the port, another historic tower stands proudly: Torre del Brandale. Dating back to the 12th century, this impressive structure once marked the largest of the 50 towers that lined Savona's ancient city walls. The Campanassa, a massive bell, still tolls to commemorate the city's most significant events.
Step Back in Time at Priamar Fortress
No visit to Savona would be complete without a trip to the Priamar Fortress. Built by the Genoese in the 1500s, this massive structure was once part of their attempts to control the city. Today, it houses the Archeological Museum and the Sandro Pertini and Renata Cuneo Museum, offering a fascinating look into the area's rich history. You'll also get a chance to step inside the prison cell of Giuseppe Mazzini, a key figure in Italy's unification.
The Medieval Heart of Savona
From the seaside, head inland to discover Savona's medieval old town. With its maze of narrow streets, the Via Pia pedestrian zone is a perfect place to explore. Stroll through this charming district and make sure to visit the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, home to the extraordinary Cappella Sistina. You read that right—Savona is home to its very own Sistine Chapel, created by Pope Sixtus IV, the same pope who commissioned the famous one in Rome. The chapel here is beautifully adorned with Rococo frescoes, an awe-inspiring sight.
For art enthusiasts, Savona offers two must-see museums housed in the Palazzo Gavotti: the Museo della Ceramica, which showcases the city's six-century-long tradition of ceramic art, and the Pinacoteca Civica, a vibrant collection of Renaissance works and contemporary masterpieces by artists like Picasso and Magritte.
Savona's Unique Culinary Delights
After soaking in the culture, it's time to fuel up. Savona is famous for two unique local dishes: panissa and farinata bianca. The panissa is a chickpea flour dough, reminiscent of polenta, sliced and either served raw or deep-fried. To taste this savory street food, head to Vico Crema, a hidden alley where a small shop, with no sign out front, offers up sandwiches filled with crispy slices of panissa. It's one of the best bites in town!
Meanwhile, farinata bianca, a variation of the traditional Ligurian chickpea pancake, is made with wheat flour instead. Legend has it that it was created in 1528 after Genoese forces destroyed Savona and imposed a ban on chickpea flour.
Savona's Art Nouveau Charm
For a touch of elegance, visit the Palazzo dei Pavoni, a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture built in 1910. Its ornate features draw influence from the Viennese Secession movement, adding a distinct flair to the city's historic charm. Savona has other beautiful Art Nouveau buildings too—check out Palazzo delle Piane, known for its six copper balls atop the roof.
A Special Moment: The 6 pm Bell
One of the most unique and moving experiences in Savona happens every day at 6 pm sharp. At the Monumento ai Caduti (Monument to the Fallen), the bell tolls 21 times, one for each letter of the Italian alphabet. The entire city pauses during these moments of reflection—pedestrians stop in their tracks, cars come to a halt—and the bell's solemn tolls echo through the streets, reminding everyone of the city's history and the lives lost in battle.
Savona's Vibrant Heart: Shopping & Local Delights
If you're in the mood for shopping or perhaps a last-minute souvenir, visit Piazza Mameli, where Bar Confetteria Besio has been a staple of Savona for generations. Here, you can try local delicacies made with chinotto di Savona, a unique sour orange native to the region. Don't miss the chinotto soda or the chinotti canditi (candied chinotto oranges)—they're a real taste of Savona!
Relaxing at the Old Port
After a day of exploring, head back to the port area where Savona's vibrant nightlife thrives. The old port is lined with trendy restaurants, perfect for winding down with an aperitivo or a light meal. If you're lucky, you might even spot Alalunga, a boat run by a group of young fishermen who serve up freshly caught fish.
A Day Well Spent
Savona may not be on every tourist's bucket list, but for those who take the time to explore, it offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and culinary delights. With so much to see and do, this hidden gem of the Italian Riviera promises a day you won't forget.
