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Sarzana: a gem of history and beauty just a short distance from Lerici

Sarzana, a jewel nestled between the lush hills and the crystal-clear sea of Liguria, enchants with its millennia-old history and timeless charm. This town, perched along the Magra River, is a treasure waiting to be discovered, where every corner tells a story, and every stone bears witness to a glorious past.

A journey through time: history and culture

Sarzana boasts a historical and cultural heritage of inestimable value. Founded during the Roman era, the town flourished under the rule of the Malaspina and Visconti families, eventually becoming an important center during the Republic of Genoa. Walking through its streets, one can breathe the air of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, eras that have left indelible marks on its monuments and architecture.

The monuments: testaments to a glorious past

The Fortezza Firmafede, with its imposing walls, is a magnificent example of Renaissance military architecture. This bastion, proudly standing guard over the city, offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside, framing a landscape that seems straight out of a painting.

Another symbol of Sarzana is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a Gothic masterpiece that stands on the foundations of the ancient parish church of San Basilio. The Romanesque façade, completed in 1355, is adorned with a rose window sculpted by Lorenzo da Pietrasanta in 1474. Inside, one can admire masterpieces by Francesco Solimena and Domenico Fiasella, as well as elegant Renaissance sculptures by the Riccomanni brothers. The cathedral is especially renowned for housing the oldest painted cross in Italy, created by Maestro Guglielmo in 1138.

Cultural life

Sarzana is not only a place where history comes alive but also a vibrant and dynamic cultural center.

Each year, the town hosts the “Festival della Mente”, an internationally renowned event dedicated to creativity and reflection, attracting intellectuals and artists from around the world. The streets come alive with sounds, colors, and ideas, transforming Sarzana into a crossroads of thoughts and visions.

Additionally, every August, Sarzana hosts “La Soffitta nella Strada”, a summer fair dedicated to antiques, vintage items, and collectibles. During this event, one of the main squares in the historic center becomes the stage for “La Calandriniana”, a historic street art exhibition where twelve selected painters perform, turning Piazza Calandrini into an open-air “laboratory under the stars.”

Gastronomy: a journey through flavors

One cannot speak of Sarzana without mentioning its culinary tradition, a triumph of authentic and genuine flavors. The typical dishes of Ligurian cuisine, such as focaccia, pesto, and testaroli, find one of their most authentic expressions here. Each dish is a sensory journey that tells the story of a generous and lush land, where food is synonymous with conviviality and pleasure.

The charm of the surroundings: nature and beauty

Sarzana’s privileged location allows for the exploration of places of rare beauty, such as the Golfo dei Poeti with its pearl Lerici, the Cinque Terre, Portovenere, l’isola Palmaria and nearby Tuscany.

The surrounding hills offer trails for trekking and nature lovers, with paths winding through vineyards and olive groves, offering breathtaking panoramas.

An unforgettable experience

Visiting Sarzana is an enriching experience, a journey through time and space, an immersion in beauty and culture, a meeting with history and nature. It is a place that surprises and fascinates, leaving an indelible memory in every visitor and a desire to return.

Selected properties for sale near the center of Sarzana

Villa Nave

An elegant villa surrounded by a beautiful garden with an outdoor dining area and ample parking, just a short distance from the historic center of Sarzana.

Penthouse in the center

Located a few steps from the enchanting historic center of Sarzana, this luxurious penthouse apartment, spacious and elegant, is situated on the top floor of a historic villa.