Statua del Gigante, Monterosso al Mare
Statue in Monterosso al Mare
At the far end of Fegina beach in Monterosso al Mare, Il Gigante rises from the rocks like a weathered guardian of the sea. Created in 1910 from reinforced concrete and iron, this 14-metre-tall statue of Neptune once held a trident and supported an enormous shell-shaped terrace for the glamorous Villa Pastine. Commissioned by Giovanni and Juanita Pastine, locals who made their fortune in Argentina before returning home, it was a symbol of early 20th-century grandeur-the moment when Monterosso's rugged coastline became a stage for bold, seaside architecture.
Today, the giant is scarred but still imposing. Bombing during the Second World War and a violent storm in 1966 badly damaged both the statue and the villa, leaving Il Gigante without arms, trident, shell, or one leg. Partial restorations have stabilised him, but much of his ruined profile has been left as-is, giving the sculpture a haunting, almost mythic quality. Standing beneath him at the edge of the beach, with waves breaking over the rocks, you feel the passage of time in a very physical way-this is one of the best places to visit in Monterosso al Mare if you want to see how art, nature, and history collide on the Cinque Terre coast.
History and Significance of Il Gigante
Il Gigante was created in 1910 by sculptor Arrigo Minerbi from Ferrara, working with engineer Levacher, at the request of Giovanni and Juanita Pastine. The couple had built an extraordinary seaside residence, Villa Pastine, between 1906 and 1910, perched above the Casa dei Doganieri that poet Eugenio Montale would later immortalise in his writing. They wanted something spectacular to anchor the far end of Fegina beach, and Neptune-god of the sea-was the perfect match for Monterosso's dramatic shoreline.
Standing 14 metres high and weighing some 1700 quintals, the reinforced concrete and iron giant was not just a decorative sculpture. He formed part of the villa’s composition, supporting a large shell-shaped terrace that overlooked the sea. Villa Pastine itself was an extravagant structure: three floors, a side tower, arches and loggias, a bridge, and a marble staircase with three flights, all designed to showcase the Pastines’ success and to make the most of the coastal setting. For a time, this corner of Monterosso must have felt like a dream of Belle Époque Riviera luxury.
History, however, was not kind to either villa or statue. After Giovanni’s death following the First World War, Juanita returned to Buenos Aires and the property entered a slow decline, passing through different owners and losing its shine. During the Second World War, bombing damaged the villa and Il Gigante; later, in 1966, a powerful storm battered the coastline, weakening the statue further and destroying much of the shell terrace. Partial restorations have kept Neptune standing, but today only a truncated figure remains, his arms, trident, shell, and one leg gone. The villa itself has all but vanished, leaving only a solitary tower. What survives is a powerful, melancholy monument: a reminder of Monterosso’s early tourism boom, the violence of war and weather, and the resilience of this coastline.
Things to See and Do in Il Gigante
The best way to experience Il Gigante is simply to walk the length of Fegina beach towards the marina, letting the statue slowly grow larger as you approach. From a distance, he seems to emerge from the cliff, blending with the rock; up close, you can appreciate the details of his weathered surface, the structural iron and concrete, and the way the remaining leg and torso still cling to the shore. The missing arms and trident make the figure even more expressive, like a mythic being worn away by centuries instead of just over a hundred years.
Take time to explore the surroundings. Standing beneath the statue, you can look back along the curve of Fegina beach, with colourful umbrellas, bathers, and the train line hugging the cliffs behind. Turn towards the sea and you’ll see waves breaking against the rocks at Neptune’s feet, particularly dramatic on days when the swell is strong. The contrast between the relaxed beach atmosphere and the solemn, battered giant gives this corner of Monterosso a unique mood-part holiday postcard, part open-air ruin.
Even though Villa Pastine is gone, knowing its story adds depth to what you see. Look for the remaining tower that once formed part of the complex, and imagine the shell-shaped terrace that once hovered above the sea. It's easy to picture early 20th-century guests strolling along the balcony while the statue below held up the structure. Today, Il Gigante is a highlight of any walking tour of Monterosso al Mare, and a favourite subject for photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light softens his edges and the cliffs glow.
How to Get to Il Gigante
Il Gigante stands at the far end of Fegina beach in Monterosso al Mare, marking the transition from the sandy stretch to the marina and parking area, so once you're in Monterosso it's an easy, level walk from the seafront promenade. The nearest major airports are Genoa Cristoforo Colombo and Pisa International, both of which offer convenient rail and road links along the Ligurian coast to the Cinque Terre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Monterosso al Mare on Booking.com.
To reach Monterosso, most visitors take the train along the coastal line between La Spezia and Levanto; regional trains stop directly at Monterosso al Mare station, from which it's only a few minutes' walk to Fegina beach and then on to Il Gigante at the far end.Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy. Trains are frequent in season and are generally the easiest way to hop between Cinque Terre villages.
If you’re arriving by car, you’ll find paid parking areas near Fegina beach, not far from the statue, but spaces are limited and fill quickly in high season.If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Many travellers choose to park in larger towns outside the Cinque Terre and rely on trains or boats to reach Monterosso, then explore the beach and Il Gigante on foot.
Practical Tips on Visiting Il Gigante
- Suggested tips: Walk to Il Gigante early in the morning or towards sunset to avoid the heat and crowds, and to enjoy the most atmospheric light on the statue and cliffs.
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and clearer views; summer brings a lively beach scene, while winter can reveal the drama of rough seas.
- How long to spend: Allow 20-30 minutes to walk from the station or central beach, explore the area around the statue, and take photos; longer if you’re combining it with beach time.
- Accessibility: The route along Fegina promenade is generally flat and suitable for most visitors; getting closer to the rocks beneath the statue involves uneven surfaces and should be approached with care.
- Facilities: Cafés, bars, beach clubs, and restrooms are scattered all along Fegina beach, with additional services near the station and in the old town.
- Photography tip: For classic shots, frame the statue from a low angle with the sea behind; at golden hour, position yourself so the sun lights Neptune’s profile and the cliffs in warm tones.
- Guided tours: Some local guides include Il Gigante as part of a coastal or village walking tour, combining history of the statue with stories of Monterosso’s early tourism.
- Nearby food options: Beachfront bars and trattorias near Fegina serve everything from focaccia and gelato to seafood dinners, ideal for a meal or aperitivo after your visit.
Where to Stay close to Il Gigante
If you want to be close to Il Gigante and Fegina’s sandy beach, staying on the seafront side of Monterosso is ideal. For spectacular cliffside views and a peaceful setting just a short walk from the statue and the old town, Hotel Porto Roca is a standout choice. If you prefer to be closer to the station and the main stretch of Fegina beach, Hotel Villa Adriana offers comfortable rooms, gardens, and a pool within easy reach of the promenade. For a stay that bridges beach and historic centre, Albergo Degli Amici places you in the old town lanes, still within strolling distance of Il Gigante via the seafront walk.
Is Il Gigante Worth Visiting?
Yes, Il Gigante is absolutely worth seeking out while you’re in Monterosso. It’s more than just a curious beach statue: it tells the story of how this once-remote fishing village embraced early tourism, the grand ambitions of Villa Pastine, and the forces-war, storms, and time-that reshaped both. The ruined but still powerful figure of Neptune adds a touch of mystery and melancholy to an otherwise cheerful beach, and the walk to reach him gives you wonderful views of Monterosso’s shoreline. For many visitors, seeing Il Gigante in person becomes a surprisingly moving moment, adding depth to their memories of the Cinque Terre.
What Other Travellers Say...
Statua del Gigante in Monterosso al Mare stands at the far end of Fegina Beach and is a massive seaside landmark worth a photo stop; visitors praise the clear water and scenic cliffs, note it sits above the public beach where daytrippers often pause for pictures, and nearby amenities include both free public beach access and private beach facilities (two sunbeds and shade reported at €40/day, cash only) with showers, toilets and changing rooms, plus a highly recommended nearby restaurant a short walk away.
FAQs for Visiting Il Gigante
Nearby Attractions to Il Gigante
- Fegina Beach: Monterosso’s broad sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching along the promenade.
- Church of San Giovanni Battista: A striking Ligurian Gothic church with black-and-white striped façade and a beautiful rose window in the main square of Monterosso.
- Oratory of the Confraternita dei Neri Mortis et Orationis: A small Baroque oratory beside the main church, decorated with dramatic memento mori imagery.
- Monterosso Old Town: A charming network of narrow streets, shops, and eateries tucked behind the bay, ideal for evening strolls.
- Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Soviore: A peaceful hilltop shrine above Monterosso, reached by road or hiking paths, offering woods, views, and a quieter side of the Cinque Terre.
The Statua del Gigante appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Monterosso al Mare!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Spiaggia di Fegina (0.4) km
Beach - Castle of Monterosso (0.7) km
Castle - Aurora Tower (0.8) km
Tower - Oratorio Mortis et Orationis (0.9) km
Church - Church of San Giovanni Battista (0.9) km
Church - Santuario di Nostra Signora di Soviore (2.4) km
Church - Castello Doria and Belforte Tower (3.2) km
Castle and Tower - Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio, Cinque Terre (3.5) km
Church - Santuario di Nostra Signora delle Grazie (4.8) km
Religious Building - Oratory of the Disciplinati di Santa Caterina (5.8) km
Church
