Vernazza, commonly referred to as Cinque Terre, or “Five Lands,” was listed in the New York Times’ 2013 list of the top twenty tourist destinations worldwide. The town was still recovering at the time from a soil slide and flood that had occurred two years earlier. 

The residents were working hard to restore the attractiveness of their tiny streets and vibrantly colored homes with assistance from sponsors worldwide. All that remains of the “suspended vineyards” that encircle and overlook the town are young vines. These were planted in place of the older vines that the landslides had uprooted following the flood. Once more, of the five towns that comprise the Cinque Terre, Vernazza is probably the most astounding and unexpected.

The hamlet was constructed in the eleventh century as a harbor for trade and defense, according to historical accounts. Situated on a small harbor, it is sandwiched between the town of Corniglia and the “lands” of Monterosso al Mare. One of Vernazza’s most well-known buildings, the Doria Castle, stands out in the bay with its ancient tower and reflects the town’s military past.

Another striking structure is the Church of Santa Margherita. It is a stunning 1300s Romanesque church that appears to be rising out of the tranquil bay. The Sanctuary of Madonna di Reggio and Santa Margherita are both adored by the locals. Situated on the Sanctuaries Way of the Cinque Terre, the Sanctuary of Madonna di Reggio is a 2-kilometer ascent from the Vernazza train station.

Vernazza is truly special not because of its most famous buildings, but because of its pastel-colored little houses that are squished together on the steep coast like a tangled embroidery. People who love food and wine will also love its tiny squares and lanes. A big part of Vernazza’s economy depends on farming. The tiered fields that make up the town’s landscape produce great wine, olive oil, and lemons. Fish has been the main source of protein for the people in the town for a long time, and it’s still a big part of their traditional food. Its shops also have a lot of one-of-a-kind things for travelers who like fashion and handmade goods.

Vernazza in the Cinque Terre is also a great place to walk. People can only get to the town on foot, by train, or by boat. But not by car. For walkers, this area has many trails that are thousands of years old. The Sentiero Azzurro, or “Blue Trail,” is the most beautiful of these. This beautiful trail goes high along the coast and gives walkers the most amazing views of the town. This is the same view that must have enchanted travelers hundreds of years ago.

Vernazza is back to its charming self after the flood and the mud. This is due to the strength of its people and the unity of the world, and it will continue to win over travelers for many more ages.