Manarola, known as Manaea in the local dialect, is a small town located in the province of La Spezia, Liguria, northern Italy. It is a frazione of the municipality of Riomaggiore and is renowned as one of the famous Cinque Terre towns frequented by tourists. Despite being the second-smallest town in the area, it has a population of 353.

The village’s name may have originated from a large wheel, which is believed to be the source of its name. Manarola is considered to be the oldest among the Cinque Terre towns, with the church of San Lorenzo dating back to 1338. The local dialect spoken in Manarola, called Manarolese, differs slightly from the dialects spoken in the surrounding region. The name “Manarola” likely evolved from the Latin term “Magna rota,” which means “large wheel.” In the Manarolese dialect, it transformed into “Magna roea,” referring to the mill wheel in the town.

Fishing and wine-making have been the primary industries in Manarola throughout its history. The region is particularly famous for its local wine, Sciacchetrà, which has garnered praise even in ancient Roman writings for its exceptional quality. In recent years, Manarola and the neighboring towns have become popular tourist destinations, especially during the summer months. The area offers various tourist attractions, including the renowned walking trail known as Via dell’Amore (“Love’s Trail”) connecting Manarola and Riomaggiore, as well as hiking trails in the hills and vineyards surrounding the town. Manarola is one of the five villages comprising the Cinque Terre. The houses in Manarola are known for their vibrant and colorful appearances. Notably, Antonio Discovolo (1874–1956) immortalized Manarola in his paintings.

History of Manarola

The village’s origins trace back to Roman times, with its oldest nucleus established on the hill of S. Cristoforo gaining prominence as a protective stronghold during Longobard attacks in the 7th century. Throughout the Middle Ages, various noble families contended for control over the area, ultimately falling under the rule of the Republic of Genoa.

Spanning two bays, the historical core occupies the Bruanco River’s bay to the East (old town), while the settlement in the Fegina inlet to the West, housing the railway station, has more recent development.

In 1870, the Italian government constructed a railroad line, connecting the village to the outside world and becoming the primary gateway for visitors. The population stands at 2000 residents, and in recent years, tourism has surpassed agricultural activities as the predominant economic driver.

Visiting Manarola for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Manarola on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Manarola not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Manarola and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Oratory of the Disciplinati of Manarola

Dating back to the fourteenth century, the Disciplinanti congregation was dedicated to safeguarding the vulnerable. Situated in Manarola, this oratory is located in the upper area of the town’s square, where the San Lorenzo parish church also stands. Originating in the fifteenth century, it is alternatively referred to as the oratory of the Santissima Annunziata […]

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Location: Via Rocca, 15, 19017 Manarola SP, Italy | Distance: 0.10km

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Visiting Oratory of the Disciplinati of Manarola

Bastion of Manarola

During the medieval era, the entirety of the Ligurian coastline was vulnerable to the threat of pirate raids, and Manarola was certainly not exempt from these challenges. In response to these incursions, a sea-facing castle was erected, a location now occupied by the iconic pastel-coloured houses that define the town’s aesthetic. Although the castle itself […]

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Visiting Bastion of Manarola

San Lorenzo Manarola

The parish church known as the Nativity of the Virgin Mary is commonly addressed as the church of San Lorenzo, the town’s patron saint, whose celebration takes place every 10th of August. Erected in 1338, a fact commemorated by a plaque on the right side of the facade, the church represents an exemplar of Ligurian […]

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Location: Chiesa di San Lorenzo, Via Rocca, Manarola, SP, Italy | Distance: 0.20km

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Visiting San Lorenzo Manarola

Santuario di Nostra Signora della Salute, Cinque Terre

The Santuario di Nostra Signora della Salute or Sanctuary of Our Lady of Health is a Catholic place of worship located in the hamlet of Volastra within the municipality of Riomaggiore, in the province of La Spezia. This sanctuary is associated with the parish church of San Lorenzo di Manarola and serves as the seat of […]

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Visiting Santuario di Nostra Signora della Salute, Cinque Terre