The alleyway of Lavagna and the basilica in the background

Il caruggio di Lavagna e la basilica sullo sfondo

The alleyway of Lavagna and the basilica in the background.
Strolling through Lavagna on a mild October day, the heart of the historic center unfolds through one of its most evocative views: the main alleyway, narrow and welcoming, which leads the gaze to the majestic façade of the Basilica of Santo Stefano. The photograph taken in that moment captures the essence of this Ligurian town, where every stone tells a story and every corner invites contemplation.
The alleyway, with its stone paving and warm-colored houses, invites you to slow down. The shops, ancient doorways, and flower-filled windows create an intimate atmosphere, almost suspended in time. In the background, the Basilica of Santo Stefano rises elegantly, dominating the scene with its baroque façade and staircase adorned with sculpted lions. Built between 1650 and 1668 and consecrated in 1703, the basilica is the spiritual and architectural hub of Lavagna, elevated to a minor basilica in 1921 by Pope Benedict XV.
The soft, golden autumn light caresses the surfaces and gives depth to the image. The contrasts between shadow and sun enhance the details: the green shutters, the wrought-iron signs, the time-worn stones. It is a scene that speaks of Liguria, of the sea, and of memory, where the sacred and the everyday meet in perfect balance.
This photograph is not just a memory, but a testament to discreet beauty. An invitation to return, to lose yourself again in the alleys of Lavagna, letting yourself be guided by the scent of basil, the sound of bells, and the reassuring sight of the Basilica of Santo Stefano in the background.

Do you know Lavagna?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Il caruggio di Lavagna e la basilica sullo sfondo

Photo taken with Oppo Reno 12.

The alleyway of Lavagna and the basilica in the background – La ruelle de Lavagna et la basilique en arrière-plan – El callejón de Lavagna y la basílica al fondo – O beco de Lavagna e a basílica ao fundo – Die Gasse von Lavagna und die Basilika im Hintergrund – Con hẻm Lavagna và nhà thờ lớn ở phía sau

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_di_Santo_Stefano_%28Lavagna%29
– https://iltigullio.com/2022/03/16/basilica-di-santo-stefano-a-lavagna-la-piu-bella-del-tigullio/

The beginning of Dante Alighieri Street in Lavagna

L'inizio di via Dante Alighieri a Lavagna

The beginning of Dante Alighieri Street in Lavagna.
In the heart of Lavagna, a Ligurian town overlooking the Gulf of Tigullio, the beginning of Dante Alighieri Street represents a meeting point between history, architecture, and daily life. This street, named after the great Italian poet, opens with a particularly charming stretch: elegant porticos, black slate paving, and views that evoke the most authentic soul of Liguria.
Strolling along the first stretch of Via Dante Alighieri, you immediately sense the area's historic character. The porticos, with their columns and vaults, offer shelter and shade, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere. Slate, a typical material of the region, gives the paving a dark and refined tone, which contrasts with the pastel-colored facades of the surrounding buildings.
The street runs through the town center and is located just steps from the Basilica of Santo Stefano, one of Lavagna's main places of worship. This makes the beginning of Via Dante Alighieri not only an urban passageway, but also a spiritual and cultural landmark. The presence of the basilica contributes to the area's sense of tranquility and solemnity, accentuated by the architectural beauty of the surrounding area.
From an urban planning perspective, Strada Dante Alighieri is well integrated into the fabric of the city. The shops, historic boutiques, and cafés that line the street enliven local life, offering residents and visitors an authentic experience. The beginning of the street is often photographed for its harmonious composition, becoming a favorite subject for those who want to tell the story of Lavagna through images.
In short, the beginning of Strada Dante Alighieri in Lavagna is much more than a simple point on the map: it is a place where architectural beauty meets local history, where every step tells a story, and where the present coexists harmoniously with the past.

Do you know Lavagna?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Photo taken with Oppo Reno 12.

Here is the spot where I took this photo:

The beginning of the Dante Alighieri Street in Lavagna – Le début de la rue Dante Alighieri à Lavagna – El comienzo de la calle Dante Alighieri en Lavagna – O início da Rua Dante Alighieri em Lavagna – Der Beginn der Dante-Alighieri-Straße in Lavagna – Sự khởi đầu của đường Dante Alighieri ở Lavagna

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.

A fake window drawn in the center of Lavagna

Una finestra disegnata in centro a Lavagna

A fake window painted in the center of Lavagna.
Lavagna, a charming town on the Ligurian Riviera, is famous for its decorated facades that tell stories of ingenuity and art. Among these, one of the most fascinating is the fake window painted on the facade of a building in the historic center. This example of trompe l’oeil not only embellishes the building, but also represents a tradition rooted in Ligurian culture.
Trompe l’oeil, which means “deception of the eye,” is a painting technique that creates the illusion of three-dimensional elements on flat surfaces. Using precise perspectives, plays of light and shadow, artists manage to transform simple walls into realistic scenes. In Liguria, this technique has been widely used to decorate the facades of buildings, often with painted windows, columns and other architectural details1.
The tradition of fake windows in Liguria has practical and historical origins. In the 18th century, the government of the Republic of Genoa introduced a tax on windows, prompting owners to wall up some of their openings to avoid the tax. However, to maintain the aesthetics of the facades, they decided to paint fake windows instead of bricked ones2. This not only saved money, but also helped create artistically elaborate facades.
The fake window of Lavagna is a perfect example of this tradition. Located on a building in the historic center, the painted window is so realistic that many passers-by have to stop to verify its authenticity. With careful details such as half-closed shutters and reflections of light, this work of art is a tribute to the mastery of local craftsmen and the history of the city.
Facades decorated with trompe l’oeil are a distinctive feature of the Ligurian Riviera. Walking through the streets of Lavagna, you can admire numerous examples of this technique, which enrich the urban environment and tell stories of creativity and ingenuity. The fake window of Lavagna is just one of the many hidden treasures that make this city a fascinating place to explore.

Have you ever noticed these decorations?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Photo taken with Oppo Reno 12.

Where is the window located:

A fake window drawn in the center of Lavagna – Une fausse fenêtre dessinée au centre de Lavagna – Una ventana falsa dibujada en el centro de Lavagna – Uma janela falsa desenhada no centro de Lavagna – Ein falsches Fenster im Zentrum von Lavagna – Một cửa sổ giả được vẽ ở giữa Lavagna

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://www.portofinocoast.it/lillusione-del-colore/
– https://www.iviaggidellanto.com/finestre-di-liguria-facciate-decorate-e-persiane-finte/
– https://www.theredsontheroad.com/blog/post/121166/finestre-palazzi-genova-disegnate

A stroll through the alleyway of Lavagna

Due passi nel caruggio di Lavagna

A stroll through the caruggio of Lavagna.
Lavagna, a picturesque town located on the Ligurian coast, is famous for its caruggi, the characteristic narrow alleys that cross the historic center. Walking through the caruggio of Lavagna is like taking a trip back in time, among ancient stone houses, artisan workshops and atmospheres that tell stories of a past rich in traditions.
The main caruggio of Lavagna, Via Roma, is the beating heart of the city. Here, visitors can find a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants offering local products and Ligurian specialties. The facades of the houses, often decorated with frescoes and small architectural details, add a touch of charm and authenticity to this corner of Liguria.
One of the most fascinating elements of the caruggio of Lavagna are the small statues that adorn the facades of the houses. These statues, often carved in wood or stone, represent a variety of subjects, from historical and mythological characters to animals and symbolic figures. Each statue tells a story and adds a unique and personal touch to each home.
Walking through the caruggio of Lavagna is also an opportunity to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the place. Stopping at one of the cafes for an espresso or a focaccia genovese is a perfect way to soak up the local atmosphere and observe daily life that flows slowly and serenely.
Lavagna offers numerous points of interest, including the Torre del Borgo, which houses an art gallery, and the Basilica of Santo Stefano. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these historic sites and discover the hidden treasures that make Lavagna such a special place.
Lavagna is a place that enchants both tourists and locals. Its caruggi, with small statues that adorn the facades of the houses, add another layer of charm and history to this already extraordinary town. If you are planning a visit to Lavagna, be sure to include a walk through the caruggio in your itinerary.

Do you know Lavagna and its alleyway?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Due passi nel caruggio di Lavagna

Photo taken with Oppo Reno 12.

Here's where the street is:

A stroll through the alleyway of Lavagna – A deux pas de l’allée de Lavagna – Dos pasos en el callejón de Lavagna – Dois passos no beco de Lavagna – Zwei Schritte in der Gasse von Lavagna – Hai bước trong hẻm Lavagna

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://www.duepassinelmistero2.com/studi-e-ricerche/arte/italia/liguria/lavagna-cavi-borgo-e-arenelle/
– https://wanderlog.com/list/geoCategory/1588709/top-things-to-do-and-attractions-in-lavagna

An unusual view of Lavagna for me

Una vista per me insolita di Lavagna

An unusual view of Lavagna for me.
Walking along via Emanuele Pessagno I saw this glimpse of the beautiful houses of via Dante Alighieri but from the back.
You can also see the bell towers of the Basilica of Santo Stefano.

Have you ever seen Lavagna from this perspective?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Una vista per me insolita di Lavagna

Photo taken with Honor 20.

Here is the spot where I took this photo:

Emanuele Pessagno (Manuel Pessanha in Portuguese) was an Italian navigator in the service of the Kingdom of Portugal. Emanuele was a skilled navigator and naval engineer, as well as an excellent admiral and skilled diplomat at the English court. In 1337 he resumed command of the Portuguese fleet.
Continue and learn more on Wikipedia

An unusual view of Lavagna for me – Une vue insolite de Lavagna pour moi – Una vista inusual de Lavagna para mí. – Uma vista invulgar de Lavagna para mim – Für mich ein ungewöhnlicher Blick auf Lavagna – Một cái nhìn khác thường về Lavagna đối với tôi

Roma street, the beautiful alley of Lavagna

Via Roma, il bel caruggio di Lavagna

Roma street, the beautiful alley of Lavagna.
The towns and villages of Liguria almost always have a pedestrian street, which crosses the center, which we call caruggio.
Via Roma, of which today I post a photo that I took a few months ago, is the alley of Lavagna.

Do you know Lavagna and its alleyway?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Via Roma, il bel caruggio di Lavagna

Photo taken with Oppo Reno 12.

Here's where the street is:

Via Roma, the beautiful alley of Lavagna – Via Roma, la belle ruelle de Lavagna – Via Roma, la hermosa calle de Lavagna – Via Roma, o belo beco de Lavagna – Via Roma, die schöne Gasse von Lavagna – Via Roma, con hẻm xinh đẹp của Lavagna

The narrow alley of Borgo a Lavagna

Lo stretto vico del Borgo a Lavagna

The narrow alley of Borgo in Lavagna.
I'm always looking for unusual spots to photograph in my town (Sestri Levante) but also in nearby towns.
This, for example, is a small and narrow alley in the historic center of Lavagna.

Do you know Lavagna and its historic center?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Lo stretto vico del Borgo a Lavagna

Photo taken with Honor 20.

Here's where the alley is located:

The narrow alley of Borgo a Lavagna – La ruelle étroite de Borgo a Lavagna – El estrecho callejón de Borgo a Lavagna – O beco estreito de Borgo a Lavagna – Die enge Gasse von Borgo a Lavagna – Con hẻm hẹp Borgo a Lavagna

A glimpse of an alley in Lavagna

Lo scorcio di un vicolo di Lavagna

A glimpse of an alley in Lavagna.
If I'm not mistaken, these are the porticos of Via Dante Alighieri, the street that passes in front of the Basilica of Santo Stefano, very characteristic because the floor is made of slate.

Do you know the town of Lavagna?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Lo scorcio di un vicolo di Lavagna

Photo taken with Honor 20.

A glimpse of an alley in Lavagna – L’aperçu d’une ruelle à Lavagna – El vistazo de un callejón en Lavagna – O vislumbre de um beco em Lavagna – Der Blick auf eine Gasse in Lavagna – Toàn cảnh một con hẻm ở Lavagna

A glimpse of the modern arcades of Lavagna

Uno scorcio dei portici moderni di Lavagna

A glimpse of the modern arcades of Lavagna.
Lavagna, located in the heart of the Gulf of Tigullio, is a town that combines the charm of tradition with touches of modernity. Its arcades, which wind around the main streets of the center, are a perfect example of how contemporary architecture can enrich the urban landscape.
Some are very typical and ancient, with slate elements. Others are much more recent and modern (like the ones in the photo of this post) like these on Via Nuova Italia.
The arcades of Lavagna are characterized by materials such as stone and decorated with beautiful mosaics, which give an elegant and refined look. These arcades offer ideal shelter from both the summer sun and the winter rain, making it pleasant to walk around the city in every season.
Under the arcades, there are numerous shops, cafes and restaurants that invite you to stop for a break. This covered path is always lively, with residents and tourists mingling, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. It is the perfect place to go shopping, enjoy a coffee or simply observe the city life.
The porticos are not only an architectural element, but also a meeting point for the local community. Here, the inhabitants of Lavagna meet to shop, chat and enjoy a moment of relaxation. This makes the porticos a dynamic and social place, where you can breathe the authentic atmosphere of Ligurian life.
For those visiting Lavagna, a walk under the porticos is an experience not to be missed. In addition to offering a unique view of the city, they allow you to discover hidden corners and architectural details that tell the story and culture of this fascinating Ligurian village.

Have you ever had the opportunity to visit Lavagna and walk under its ancient and modern arcades of Lavagna?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

Uno scorcio dei portici moderni di Lavagna

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon RF 24-50.

Here is the spot where I took this photo:

A glimpse of the modern arcades of Lavagna – Un aperçu des portiques modernes de Lavagna – Un vistazo a los pórticos modernos de Lavagna – Um vislumbre dos pórticos modernos de Lavagna – Ein Blick auf die modernen Portiken von Lavagna – Một cái nhìn thoáng qua về những mái hiên hiện đại của Lavagna

The large churchyard of Santo Stefano in Lavagna

L'ampio sagrato di Santo Stefano a Lavagna

The large churchyard of Santo Stefano in Lavagna.
The churchyard of the Basilica of Santo Stefano in Lavagna is famous for its beautiful risseu, mosaics made from black and white pebbles arranged in geometric patterns. The basilica itself, located in the town of Lavagna in Liguria, is an imposing structure that dominates the town and the surrounding sea.
The Basilica of Santo Stefano in Lavagna has a fascinating history that dates back many centuries. The first mention of a religious building on the site dates back to the 6th century, although some sources suggest it may be even older. Originally, there was a signal tower for sailors on the site, next to which the first church was built.
Over the centuries, the basilica has undergone numerous changes and restorations. In 1060, it was elevated to a collegiate church and became an important ecclesiastical center under the protection of the Holy See of Rome. The noble Fieschi family, who dominated the region, always had a special regard for the church, considering it a religious reference point of their dominion.
The current structure of the basilica was completed in 1668, with the consecration taking place in 1703. In 1921, Pope Benedict XV elevated the church to the rank of minor basilica.
The basilica is also known for its richly decorated interior and for the churchyard with the characteristic black and white pebble mosaics, typical of the Ligurian tradition.

Do you know this splendid church in Lavagna and its churchyard?
Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.

L'ampio sagrato di Santo Stefano a Lavagna

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon RF 24-50.

Here is where the church is located:

The collegiate basilica of Santo Stefano is a Catholic place of worship in the municipality of Lavagna, in Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, in the metropolitan city of Genoa. The church is the seat of the parish of the same name of the vicariate of Chiavari-Lavagna of the diocese of Chiavari.
Continue and learn more on Wikipedia

The churchyard of the church of Santo Stefano a Lavagna – Le cimetière de l’église de Santo Stefano a Lavagna – El cementerio de la iglesia de Santo Stefano a Lavagna – O adro da igreja de Santo Stefano a Lavagna – Der Kirchhof der Kirche Santo Stefano a Lavagna – Sân nhà thờ Santo Stefano a Lavagna – 圣斯特凡诺拉瓦尼亚教堂的墓地 – サント ステファノ ア ラヴァーニャ教会の墓地

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– http://www.comune.lavagna.ge.it/content/chiese-e-monumenti
– https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g194788-d7785459-Reviews-Basilica_di_Santo_Stefano-Lavagna_Italian_Riviera_Liguria.html