Gulf of Poets |
This legendary costal area was once the home of some of the world's most famous poets: Shelly, Lawrence, Byron, and Dickens. They, as did many artists, found inspiration from the colorful hamlets,the deep blue sea and colorful gardens. MontemarcelloTake a step back in time as you enter though the 15th century walls of Montemarcello. Time seems to have stopped in this medieval burg with its burnt orange and faded rose facades. The narrow walkways lead through archways into small hidden and intriguing squares.To the west of the town, are the amazing marble quarries of Carrara that appear as mountains sprinkled with snow. On the ocean side of town are the amazing vistas that open up to the Gulf of the Poet's and in the distance, Portovenere, the Isles of Palmaria and Tino. The National Park of Montemarcello is another point of interest with its botanic gardens and pathways leading through flora and fauna typical of the area. Lerici / SanTerenzoLerici and San Terenzo are amongst the most populated villages in the Poet's Gulf. Their pink and yellow homes, typical of the Ligurian region, climb the hillside above the deep blue sea. Some of the most famous poets such as Shelly and Lawrence chose these two towns as their summer retreat. In fact, the 16th century castle above the harbor in Lerici is said to have inspired Shelly's wife, Mary Wollstonecraft, to write Frankenstein.Watch the boats come and go from the yacht harbor, dine at one of the many seaside cafes, and linger long enough to enjoy the brilliant sunset. Lawrence wrote: "The Mediterranean is quite wonderful and when the sun sets beyond the island of Porto Venere and all of the sea is like heaving white milk with street of fire across it, and amethyst islands back away, it is too beautiful." PortovenerePortovenere is considered an authentic "jewel" by many. Those that have visited Portovenere and the surroundings will not easily forget its beauty.Portovenere has Roman origins as can be seen in the San Pietro church. "Portus Veneris" is found in certain historical writings as far back as 161 A.C. This amazing church is open to the public if you are up to climbing the steep and well-worn steps. There are spectacular views both inside and out. The unique and gaily painted homes along the harbor are very tall and narrow. It is said that the residents would pour olive oil on the pirates from the upper floors. The "Grotto Byron", where poets Byron and Shelly would go for a swim, is visible but not accessible to the public. Amazing would best describe this historical site that is carved into the rugged cliffs. |