La Pigna (Old Town)
La Pigna takes its name from its shape: streets and alleys that spiral up a steep hill in overlapping rings, like the scales of a pine cone. From below, the medieval quarter looks almost geological — tower-houses stacked so tightly they seem to lean on each other for support. The caruggi, the narrow covered passages that thread between them, block out the Ligurian sun and drop the temperature by several degrees even in July.
Via Palma was once the main artery of this place, and walking it now you pass through centuries in a few hundred metres: a 14th-century Gothic gateway, a 16th-century Saracen tower, a square that once held the neighbourhood's only water supply.
💛 What travellers fall for
People who return tend to come back for the squares. Piazza di Santa Brigida runs a small open-air cinema in summer. Piazza Cisterna, the old water square, is quiet enough on a weekday morning that you can hear pigeons. Wear shoes with grip — the stones are polished smooth and the gradient doesn't let up.
The story behind La Pigna (Old Town)
The quarter dates to around the year 1000, growing steadily uphill through the medieval centuries as residents built taller and closer to survive Moorish pirate raids from the sea. The layout was defensive by design: narrow enough to block attackers, high enough to spot ships. Walls and towers were reinforced through the 16th century.
The castle that once crowned the summit was destroyed by the Genoese in 1753, and the 1887 earthquake damaged what remained at the top. In between, the quarter had its moments of wider significance: Pope Paul III slept at Palazzo Manara on 17–18 May 1538, passing through on his way to broker peace between Charles V and Francis I in Nice.
Good to know
The walk from Sanremo's train station takes 15–20 minutes, or take a local bus closer. Cars can't enter; park below and go on foot. No admission fee. Allow at least 45 minutes to reach the top at a relaxed pace. Daytime light is better for photography — night illumination is heavy.
Mid-April through mid-June is the most comfortable window — warm without the July crowds, and the light on the stone is good. September works well too, particularly the first half, before autumn rain sets in. Summer days reach around 28°C; the caruggi stay noticeably cooler.
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What travellers say about La Pigna (Old Town)
Covered walkway going up and down in the old part of town called La Pigna with narrow streets
History at its best - unique architecture - entire place designed like a pine cone.
Beautiful place
La Pigna is the historic part of Sanremo. It's quite a challenge to explore due to the many narrow, uphill streets. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the entire city of Sanremo.
La Pigna and the old town are beautiful and interesting to visit. It's not too hot there, but you do have to walk up and down some hills.
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