Imperia
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 14 March 2022
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The city of Imperia is the capital city of the Province of Imperia with a population of 42,450 inhabitants.
Situated on the Riviera di Ponente, it covers a total area of 46 km² and lies 118 km south west of Genoa, the capital of Liguria. The city was created in its current format in 1923 when Mussolini combined the town of Porto San Maurizio with nearby Oneglia. The main sights of Imperia are its port and the Parocchia di San Maurizio which is one of the largest churches in Liguria. |
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The port is the liveliest area of the city; here you'll find dozens of bars and restaurants specialising in fresh fish dishes. There's also a beach to one side of the port which greatly adds to the hustle and bustle during the summer.
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Imperia is a picturesque town located on the Italian Riviera in the Liguria region. It is the capital city of the province of Imperia and is known for its stunning coastal landscapes, historic architecture, and delicious cuisine. The town is a popular tourist destination, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.
History: Imperia has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was originally a Roman settlement known as "Emporium," which means "marketplace" in Latin. Over the centuries, the town was ruled by various powers, including the Lombards, the Franks, and the Genoese Republic.
During the medieval era, Imperia became a strategic maritime city and was an important center for trade and commerce in the region. The town's historic center, Porto Maurizio, and Oneglia, were established as two distinct settlements on opposite sides of the Impero River.
In 1923, the two towns of Porto Maurizio and Oneglia were merged to form the present-day city of Imperia, as we know it today.
Tourist Information:
History: Imperia has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was originally a Roman settlement known as "Emporium," which means "marketplace" in Latin. Over the centuries, the town was ruled by various powers, including the Lombards, the Franks, and the Genoese Republic.
During the medieval era, Imperia became a strategic maritime city and was an important center for trade and commerce in the region. The town's historic center, Porto Maurizio, and Oneglia, were established as two distinct settlements on opposite sides of the Impero River.
In 1923, the two towns of Porto Maurizio and Oneglia were merged to form the present-day city of Imperia, as we know it today.
Tourist Information:
- Porto Maurizio: This part of the city is characterized by its medieval architecture, narrow streets, and charming squares. Don't miss the Cathedral of San Maurizio, which dates back to the 18th century and boasts a beautiful bell tower.
- Oneglia: Oneglia is known for its lively port and is a great place to sample fresh seafood in one of the local restaurants. The area also features beautiful beaches and the Naval Museum.
- Parasio: This ancient part of Imperia, located on a hill overlooking Porto Maurizio, offers stunning panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. Stroll through the historic alleys and visit the 13th-century Santa Chiara Monastery.
- Beaches: Imperia is blessed with beautiful beaches where visitors can relax, swim, and enjoy water sports.
- Olive Oil Production: The region is renowned for its high-quality olive oil production. Tourists can visit local olive mills to learn about the traditional production methods and taste some of the finest Ligurian olive oils.
- Museums: Apart from the Naval Museum, Imperia also has the Museo dell'Olivo (Olive Museum) and the Museo della Resistenza (Museum of the Resistance), which provides insights into the region's history during World War II.
- Cuisine: Imperia is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of delicious Ligurian dishes, including freshly caught seafood, pesto sauce, and handmade pasta.
- Events: The town hosts various cultural events, festivals, and markets throughout the year, providing visitors with a chance to experience the local traditions and customs.
Comune di Imperia
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Province: Imperia
Region: Liguria Population: 41,941 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022) Size: 45 km² Top sights: port, Parocchia di San Maurizio, beach Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2021 - 2022 Close by: Diano Marina, San Lorenzo al Mare, Diano Castello Recommended hotel: Locanda del Mar |
Imperia Travel
Imperia's train station is located 2 kilometres away from the main port area and called Stazione Imperia-Oneglia. It's a walk of around half an hour which includes crossing the River Impero which formerly divided the two towns before they were combined.
Heading west towards France you can take a train to Ventimiglia in 35 minutes including stops along the way at the seaside towns of Arma di Taggia, Sanremo and Bordighera. Heading east, Genoa is an hour and a half away, stopping at Diano Marina, Alassio, Albenga, Finale Ligure and Savona. From Savona the train continues up to Milan.
The most convenient airport for Imperia is Genoa Christopher Columbus Airport which is an hour and 32 minutes away by car, a distance of 111 kilometres.
Heading west towards France you can take a train to Ventimiglia in 35 minutes including stops along the way at the seaside towns of Arma di Taggia, Sanremo and Bordighera. Heading east, Genoa is an hour and a half away, stopping at Diano Marina, Alassio, Albenga, Finale Ligure and Savona. From Savona the train continues up to Milan.
The most convenient airport for Imperia is Genoa Christopher Columbus Airport which is an hour and 32 minutes away by car, a distance of 111 kilometres.
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Public transport: train station 2 km from centre, local buses
By train: Ventimiglia - 35 minutes, Genoa - 1 hour 33 minutes |
By car: Savona - 54 mins (70 km), Genoa - 1 hr 44 mins (120 km)
Fly to: Genoa Christopher Columbus Airport - 1 hr 32' (111 km) |
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