A Guide to Imperia

Imperia is a city located on the coast close to the French border. It is a traditional area with an ancient history. The local produce includes the famous olive oil and flower cultivation and you can enjoy many more local delicacies at the markets in Piazza Dora and Piazza Duomo.

Imperia is divided up into of a series of regions that include Prino, Peri, foce, Marina and Parasio. The nearby village of Torrazza also has a lot to offer and it is worth a visit to see the magnificent Barbaresque tower, where as in Piani you can find interesting religious buildings including the Church of the Assunta, Clavi with its Romanesque Bridge and the Church of St Giorgio.

Imperia itself has a wealth of cultural sites: the Basilica of St Maurizio, the Navy Museum, the Art Museum, the Prarola Tower, Villa Grock, the Church of St Giovanni, the Olive Museum, the ancient hamlets, the ports of Oneglia and Porto Maurizio, the sanctuary of Our Lady. Visiting during one of the traditional festivals is an ideal way to enjoy the Italian life style.

The events that take place include: the Festival of St Leonardo, Patron Saint of Imperia, the Festival of St Giovanni, the Festival of St Antonio, the Flower display of Corpus Domini, the Classic Sailing Yacht Meeting and the Festival of the Assunta.