Diano Marina: Explore the Heart of the Dianese Gulf




Diano Marina from above

Dianese Gulf Municipalities

Diano Marina: Explore the Heart of the Dianese Gulf




January 19, 2025

Diano Marina, the beating heart of the Dianese Gulf, is a pearl of the Riviera Ligure di Ponente where sea, culture and relaxation come together in a perfect mix. This enchanting seaside village, known for its golden beaches and mild climate, is an ideal destination for those seeking vacations filled with relaxation, natural beauty and Ligurian traditions.

Discover what to see in Diano Marina, from popular beaches to picturesque villages and itineraries that reveal the area's authentic charm. Get ready to explore a destination rich in history, culture and... surprises!

Diano Marina top view

The municipality of Diano Marina between past and present

Overlooking the Dianese Gulf, the picturesque town of Diano Marina stretches between the striking hills of Capo Berta and Capo Cervo, in the heart of the western Ligurian Riviera.

Once an agricultural center, Diano Marina still retains a hinterland characterized by typical Ligurian terraces, where the cultivation of basil and oil thrives and keeps local farming traditions alive.

Today, however, it is tourism that plays a key role in the town's economy, making it a popular destination for those who wish to experience the beauty of Liguria. For those looking for a vacation apartment on the Ligurian Riviera, our Agriturismo Le Girandole offers an ideal accommodation to enjoy the charms of Diano Marina in full relaxation, immersed in the greenery and tranquility of the Dianese Gulf.

The Gulf of Diano from above

You may not have known that...

Diano Marina hides fascinating curiosities that make its history and culture unique.

Did you know that the town's name comes from the Roman goddess Diana? Worshipped as the protector of forests and nature, she supplanted the ancient god Borman, who was linked to the thermal waters in the area.

Few people know that Diano Marina was a strategic stop along the historic Via Julia Augusta, used by the Romans to connect Italy to Gaul.

Not only ancient history: the Civic Museum houses the famous "Comb of Diano," an object dating back to pre-Roman times that represents one of the most important archaeological finds on the Western Riviera.

And did you know that Diano Marina hosted Garibaldi? The town's inhabitants actively contributed to the Risorgimento, and some of its citizens were among the Thousand who sailed from Quarto with Garibaldi, leaving an indelible imprint on the Italian unification process.

Golfo Dianese seen from above

The history of Diano Marina: from its origins to the present day

Diano Marina's geographical location and mild climate have favored human presence since the earliest times. The earliest traces date back to the Paleolithic, with finds of stone tools testifying to the activities of hunter-gatherer groups.

Later, under Roman rule, Diano Marina gained strategic importance: it became a mansio along the Via Julia Augusta, welcoming travelers and traders.

The Lucus Bormani

In this area, around present-day Diano Marina, agricultural settlements arose, as confirmed by archaeological finds housed in the Diano Marina Civic Museum. It was in this era that the area was called Lucus Bormani, a name that evokes the pre-Roman cult of the god Borman, a deity of spring waters.

Later, the Roman goddess Diana would replace Borman in the local pantheon, leaving her trace in the modern toponym of Diano Marina.

Middle Ages: Diano Castello and the Communitas Diani

During the early Middle Ages, raids forced the coastal inhabitants to move to the hills, where Castrum Diani, today's Diano Castello, was born. This village, a fief of the Clavesana family, became the nerve center of the valley.

With the formation of the Communitas Diani, all the towns in the area allied themselves with the Republic of Genoa, gaining trade privileges in exchange for military support, as evidenced by the contribution of the Dianese galley in the victorious Battle of Meloria in 1284 against Pisa.

The symbol of Civitas Diani

The defensive system and the Olive Oil trade in the 16th century

In the 16th century, Diano Marina established itself as a center of olive oil production and trade thanks to its natural bay. To protect this valuable landing place from Turkish-Barbarian raids, towers and bastions were built along the coast, now historical symbols of the town.

The Risorgimento: Distinguished Dianesi in the Unification of Italy

The Diano Marina Civic Museum still preserves evidence of local heroes who contributed to the Unification of Italy, such as Andrea Rossi, commander of the ship that carried Garibaldi's Thousand to Marsala, and Giobatta Rivera, known as the "cook of the Thousand."

The statue of Andrea Rossi in Diano Marina

The 1887 earthquake and the reconstruction of Diano Marina

On February 23, 1887, a devastating earthquake struck Diano Marina, killing 190 people and leaving the town severely damaged.

The reconstruction, led by engineer Giacomo Pisani, transformed the urban layout, giving Diano Marina a more modern look, with wide streets that now house hotels, residences, and vacation apartments.

What to See in Diano Marina

The town of Diano Marina holds history, art and surprising corners, often hidden from the eyes of hurried tourists. What to do and what to see in Diano Marina? Here are a few pointers!

The Park Palace and Civic Museum

Starting in the center, the Park Palace is not only home to the Civic Museum but also an active cultural hub: art exhibitions, cultural events, and theater evenings are held here, offering a glimpse into the city's vibrant cultural life. The building's structure, with its elegant architecture, is also worth a visit for local history buffs.

The park building and civic museum from above

Villa Scarsella

Another interesting stop is Villa Scarsella, one of Diano Marina's historic buildings, set in a large park that invites you to stroll among ancient trees. The villa hosts events and manifestations, especially in summer, and is a favorite place for residents to relax and participate in the town's social life.

Parish Church of St. Anthony Abbot

Continuing to explore the town, it is impossible not to be fascinated by the Parish Church of St. Anthony Abbot. Located in the heart of the historic center, this church holds valuable works of art, including frescoes and sculptures that reflect Ligurian spirituality and art.

The interior, rich in detail and decoration, is an excellent example of Ligurian religious architecture and a place of meditation that attracts not only the faithful but also lovers of sacred art.

The Parish Church of St. Anthony Abbot

The harbor

For those who wish to explore the more hidden aspect of the city, the Diano Marina harbor area is a place of special charm, especially at sunset. The moored boats and colors reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere, always appreciated by those who wish to admire the view and take photographs. It is also a great spot to learn about local seafaring life, often visible in the daily routine of fishermen returning with the day's catch.

From Landini Pier to the Port of Diano Marina

Martyrs of Liberty Square

Not far from the harbor, Martiri della Libertà Square is another interesting stop: this central square houses the Monument to the Fallen, a sculpture honoring local soldiers, a reminder of Diano Marina's historical events and the city's contribution during times of conflict.

Why visit Diano Marina and how many days to stay?

Diano Marina is one of those destinations that surprise, ideal for those who want a mix of relaxation and discovery. Its beaches are the perfect calling card to start your vacation, with wide sandy stretches and a sea that seems to beckon anyone who loves sun and diving.

But it would be a pity to limit oneself only to the sea: the Diano area around is full of charming villages such as Diano Castello, perfect for an excursion among ancient alleys and panoramic views.

In addition, the Dianese Gulf offers paths through olive groves and hills, ideal for leisurely walks or bike rides, not to mention the events that enliven Diano Marina year-round, from traditional festivals to cultural events.

In short, it is worth staying a minimum of 3-4 days to really breathe in the authentic atmosphere of this corner of Liguria-it will be hard to leave without wanting to come back!

The sea of Diano Marina with the full moon

How to Get to Diano Marina and Getting Around the Area

Getting to Diano Marina is really easy and there are options for everyone.

If you are coming by car, simply take the A10 Genoa-Ventimiglia highway and exit at San Bartolomeo al Mare, just a couple of kilometers from the center of Diano.

For those who prefer the train, the train station is well connected to the Genoa-Ventimiglia line: get off directly at Diano Marina and you will already be close to the center, ready to start exploring.

Once you arrive, getting around is just as easy: on foot or by bike you can discover the villages and landscapes of the Dianese Gulf in complete tranquility. Our facility offers a convenient free bike rental service, perfect for exploring the waterfront and surrounding hills.

And if you prefer to rely on public transportation, local buses connect Diano to the main villages and nearby towns, such as Imperia and Alassio. For those who want to go a little further and visit the hinterland, it can be convenient to rent a car or scooter, so you can also discover the small hidden villages and picture-postcard views of Liguria.

 

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