Savona
Savona is a city rich in art and historically significant places.
Known as “the City of Popes”, it was the birthplace of Sixtus IV and Julius II of the Della Rovere family, under whom the city experienced a period of great artistic glory during the Renaissance.
Savona is one of the oldest cities in Liguria, already active in Roman times along important trade routes.
After the fall of the Empire, it was devastated by the Heruli and the Goths, later coming under Byzantine, Lombard, and eventually Duchy of Liguria rule, with Genoa as its capital.
Around the year 1000, it became one of the most active ports in the Ligurian Sea.
In 1191, it proclaimed itself a free commune and developed towers, palaces, and infrastructure.
In the 16th century, the Republic of Genoa conquered and annexed the city,
which later became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861.
What to eat
Savona is a city by the sea, but also deeply connected to the hills and mountains behind it,
as reflected in a cuisine rich with dishes that embody this dual identity.
White farinata, for example, was born from popular creativity:
when chickpea flour became too expensive, this “white” version, made with wheat flour,
offered a more delicate flavour and a softer texture.
It is best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven.
We recommend historic places such as Vino e Farinata, active since 1856,
where it is still baked in traditional copper testi.
Osteria La Farinata also serves it in a family-style setting, perfect for a relaxed evening.
Another classic is the panissa sandwich, an ancient street food.
Panissa, a mixture of chickpea flour, is fried and nestled in crispy bread,
creating an irresistible contrast. It is eaten on the go while strolling along the promenade.
For an authentic taste, try Fette Panissa Via Pia, a historic spot.
Then there is buridda, a fish and vegetable soup.
Compared to the better-known Genoese version, Savona’s buridda has countless variations.
Made with stockfish or cuttlefish, it is enriched with seasonal vegetables such as peas, artichokes, chard, or potatoes.
These change from month to month.
And finally, maccheroni con la trippa, a festive dish traditionally served at Christmas or on special occasions.
Rich and hearty, it combines tripe, sausage, and pasta in a thick, comforting soup.
Places where you can savour the authenticity of these local products include
Locanda del Contadino “Marino” and Osteria delle Mancine.
Don’t miss a visit to Besio, a historic Savona company founded in 1860,
renowned for its candied chinotto and artisanal liqueurs.
Local customs, traditions and festivities
Savona’s ceramic tradition is one of the oldest and most fascinating in Italy, with roots dating back to the 12th century. The city, together with nearby Albissola Superiore and Albissola Marina, was an important centre of ceramic production in the Mediterranean, thanks to its abundant clay deposits and strategic position for maritime trade.
Over the centuries, Savona ceramics underwent significant stylistic evolution. In the 16th century, majolica decorated with cobalt blue and polychrome motifs became predominant, often inspired by both oriental and Western themes. The Savona Ceramic Museum, located in the Palazzo del Monte di Pietà, houses a vast collection that showcases this rich tradition.
Another ancient and prestigious craft developed just over ten kilometers away: Altare glassmaking. This tradition also dates back to the 12th century. In this small Ligurian village, glassmaking has been refined over the centuries by local master glassmakers, likely influenced by the Venetian school.
The result is a highly sophisticated production appreciated throughout Europe. Even today, the work is still done by hand, using techniques passed down through generations, and is distinguished by the elegance of its shapes and the delicacy of its decorations. At the heart of this tradition is the Museo dell’Arte Vetraria Altarese, housed in the elegant Villa Rosa.
In addition to the Feast of the Nostra Signora della Misericordia, another major religious celebration takes place in Savona: the Good Friday Procession.
This is one of the city’s oldest and most evocative religious and cultural events, held every two years on Good Friday. The event is renowned for its extraordinary procession of large wooden “casse”: 17th- and 18th-century sculpted and painted groups depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ.
More than twenty groups, carried on the shoulders of dozens of confraternity members dressed in ceremonial robes, move through the historic centre in a procession that combines spirituality, art, and popular devotion. Among the most important works are masterpieces by sculptors such as Anton Maria Maragliano, one of the greatest artists of the Ligurian Baroque.
