The village is noticeable from afar. Perched on a rocky spur, it is one of the most scenic villages in Liguria. It is often poetically referred to as a stone flower, because all its houses are leaning one on top of the other against the mighty medieval castle , like the corolla of a flower. Walking through its cobbled streets, its dark carruggi is a real experience that takes us back to the lost atmospheres of a distant time.
Discovering Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena and Val Neva is’ one of the most interesting excursions you can do in the Savona hinterland with a tour guide. It is the right excursion for those who want to get to know the other side of Liguria, the more authentic one, linked to the stone villages, but also for history buffs who want to understand the various links between a small Valley and great history.
If you have therefore decided to discover the Neva Valley with a tour guide here then your desire for knowledge will be fulfilled. You will discover what is the origin of the del Carretto family, you will find out why Ottavio Costa was Caravaggio's protector, you will understand the reasons why Albenga had to build a fortified city to defend itself, but most importantly you will learn why the young Ilaria del Carretto went in marriage to Giunigi of Lucca. A most interesting visit that will tell you that great history once passed between these now small villages.
From Castelvecchio, among olive trees and Mediterranean scrub, a beautiful mule track leads to the ruins of Zuccarello Castle and allows you to descend into the village
We are in the land of the Marchesi del Carretto, one of Italy's greatest feudal families, who were able to stand up to far more powerful neighbors such as the Savoy and the Republic of Genoa, extending their rule over the entire western riviera. The castle of Castelvecchio remained one of its symbols for centuries, although it was severely damaged in 1672 in the clash between Genoa and the Savoy in which the famous mercenary Bastian Contrario took part. Today the castle is privately owned. The hamlet is beautiful in any season, but in autumn when the red vine encircles the hamlet's houses it is a marvel. The village's cosy atmosphere, which is the ultimate expression of the combination of nature and architecture, makes it a favorite destination for sought-after tourism away from mass destinations.
The visit of Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena Can be combined with:
