Vernazza, known as Vernassa in Ligurian and Vernasa in the local dialect, and derived from the Latin name Vulnetia, is a town and comune situated in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy. It is one of the five towns that collectively form the renowned Cinque Terre region. As the fourth town when traveling north, Vernazza stands out as a true “fishing village” on the Italian Riviera, maintaining its authentic charm. It holds the distinction of being the only natural port within the Cinque Terre and is famous for its elegant houses.

The name Vernazza originates from the Latin adjective “verna,” meaning “native.” The village’s name is further associated with the indigenous wine called Vernaccia, which played a role in its naming.

History of Vernazza

The earliest documented records acknowledging Vernazza as a fortified town date back to 1080. It served as an active maritime base for the Obertenghi, an Italian noble family, and was a significant departure point for naval forces defending against pirates. Over the following centuries, Vernazza played a crucial role in Genova’s conquest of Liguria, providing a port, fleet, and soldiers. In 1209, approximately 90 influential families from Vernazza pledged their loyalty to the Republic of Genova. The presence of a church was first recorded in 1251, with the mention of the parish of San Pietro in 1267. The Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia of Vernazza was referenced in 1318. Some scholars believe that the construction of the church actually took place earlier, possibly in the 12th century, based on materials and construction techniques. The Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia underwent expansions and renovations during the 16th and 17th centuries, culminating in the construction of the octagonal bell tower that rises from the apse.

In the 15th century, Vernazza fortified itself to defend against frequent and devastating pirate raids, erecting defensive walls. During the mid-17th century, like other villages in the Cinque Terre, Vernazza faced a period of decline that impacted wine production and delayed the development of the trail system and harbor mole, designed to protect against rough seas.

In the 19th century, after a prolonged period of stagnation, Vernazza experienced a revival in wine production, expanding and creating new terraced hillsides. This led to a resurgence in Vernazza’s commerce. Additionally, the construction of the Genoa–La Spezia rail line, initiated during this time, put an end to Vernazza’s isolation, resulting in a 60% increase in the population. The establishment of La Spezia’s naval base also provided employment opportunities for many Vernazza residents.

As the 20th century arrived, Vernazza faced a wave of emigration as agricultural work became perceived as dangerous and a cause of illness, while the ability to further exploit agriculture diminished.

In 1997, the Cinque Terre was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by the establishment of the National Park of the Cinque Terre in 1999. Today, tourism serves as the primary source of revenue for Vernazza. Nevertheless, fishing, wine production, and olive oil production continue as a testament to the enduring traditions of the region.

On October 25, 2011, Vernazza suffered severe damage from torrential rains, massive flooding, and mudslides that affected not only the Cinque Terre but also Val di Vara, Val di Magra, and the province of Lunigiana in Liguria. The town was submerged under more than 4 meters of mud and debris, including the train station. The event resulted in over 100 million euros worth of damage, prompting the evacuation of the town and the declaration of a state of emergency that lasted for several months.

Visiting Vernazza 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 Vernazza 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 Vernazza 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 Vernazza and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Belforte Tower & Castle Doria

Easily visible from both the sea and the inland areas, the Doria Castle in Vernazza proudly occupies a rocky promontory of the town that extends over seventy meters above sea level. Mentioned as far back as the thirteenth century, although traces of an earlier defensive structure were already present, the castle passed through the hands […]

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| Price: € 1.50 | Distance: 0.20km

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Visiting Belforte Tower & Castle Doria

Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio, Cinque Terre

The sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio is a Catholic place of worship situated in the locality bearing the same name in the municipality of Vernazza, within the province of La Spezia. This church serves as the seat of the homonymous parish within the diocese of La Spezia-Sarzana-Brugnato. To reach the sanctuary, visitors must traverse […]

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Visiting Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio, Cinque Terre

Santuario di Nostra Signora delle Grazie, Cinque Terre

The sanctuary of Nostra Signora delle Grazie or San Bernardino is a Catholic place of worship situated in the locality of San Bernardino within the municipality of Vernazza, in the province of La Spezia. The sanctuary is part of the “Sanctuaries of the Cinque Terre,” along with the sanctuary of Our Lady of Montenero in […]

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Visiting Santuario di Nostra Signora delle Grazie, Cinque Terre