Bonassola, Italian comune
Bonassola is a small coastal commune in the province of La Spezia that sits between hills and the Ligurian Sea. Painted houses line narrow streets leading to quiet squares, while wide pebbly beaches and clear blue water invite swimming and relaxation.
Bonassola's origins trace to the early medieval period when the area was called Vallis Bonazola. In the 1500s, a castle was built to defend against pirate attacks, while the Church of Santa Caterina became the spiritual center of the growing settlement.
The name Bonassola comes from the medieval period and once referred to a larger region. Residents connect their identity strongly to the sea and fishing traditions, which shows in daily activities and local celebrations. The Feast of Santa Caterina in November displays this bond through objects collected by fishermen over generations.
The village is easily reached by train since regional service connects it to Genoa and La Spezia. Narrow, winding roads make driving less practical, so leaving your vehicle behind and exploring on foot is the best option.
A local legend tells of the Salto della Lepre, a rock on a cliff where a hare supposedly escaped a hunter by making a daring leap. The spot is now a favorite viewpoint reached by a half-hour hike through the woods from the sanctuary area.
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