ALBENGA: Easy historical-archaeological trekking: the Via Julia Augusta from Albenga

One of the easiest hikes in Liguria, but also of the most interesting from a historical-archaeological and naturalistic point of view, which in just a few kilometers allows us to cross a real archaeological park that will let us discover the Roman world in Liguria. In fact, we travel along a stretch of the Via Julia Augusta, built in 13 BC by Emperor Augustus to unite the Po Valley with Gaul. To the historical-archaeological interest this walk combines the beauty of the terraced landscape that offers us wonderful views of the coast, the mountains but especially of the’Gallinara Island that will accompany us all the way.

Our proposed excursion includes a walk through the medieval center of Albenga, an example, unique in Liguria, of inhabited continuity: from Roman times to the Middle Ages to the present day. The visit winds through a maze of narrow streets and characteristic ’carruggi“ that lead to the two main axes of the historic center, which, while tracing the ancient Roman urban layout, have been well integrated with the medieval atmosphere. Among the most relevant monuments of the Ingauna town: the St. Michael's Cathedral, the Baptistery and Liguria's most distinguished early Christian monument.

After visiting the historic center we reach the first archaeological site of San Clemente (evidence of an ancient displacement of the Centa River), from here we continue to the beginning of the ancient Roman road that offers unique panoramic views of Gallinara Island: the Via Iulia Augusta. It will be possible to walk along the ancient route, attested by the presence of funerary buildings along the way.
Among vineyards of Pigato, Vermentino and Granaccia, olive and carob trees, we reach the Colombera estate (ancient dwelling with dovecote tower that belonged to the monks of Gallinara Island): an oasis of peace overlooking the sea between past and modern!
La Colombera Estate is a few minutes' walk from possible bus loading.