ABOUT

Torretta is one of four frazioni (hamlets) that constitute the municipality of Vasia, along with Pianavia, Pantasina, and Prelà Castello Vasia. The hamlet is located at 380 meters above sea level, comprising typical Ligurian houses.The hamlet’s name “Torretta” (meaning “small tower”) suggests there may have been a defensive tower structure at some point, which was common in Ligurian hillside settlements.

HISTORY

OriginsBetween the 9th and 11th centuries, Saracen pirate raids forced coastal populations inland. Torretta grew organically around a watchtower, part of a defensive network that protected the Val Prino valley.ArchitectureMedieval stone houses cluster tightly together, sharing walls for defense. Narrow winding alleys (caruggi), vaulted archways (voltici), and small windows reflect the village's fortress origins.PopulationFor centuries, families like the Acquarone, Amoretti, and Rainisio cultivated Taggiasca olives on terraced hillsides. The entire economy revolved around olive oil production.Modern EraLike many Italian hill towns, Torretta experienced significant depopulation in the 1950s-60s during Italy's economic miracle. Today, slow restoration efforts are preserving this historic settlement.

THINGS TO DO

Swimming & BeachSandy beaches at San Lorenzo al Mare offer easy access. Beach resorts provide loungers and refreshments, or explore quiet coves along the coast.CyclingA flat, scenic bike path runs along the former railway from Porto Maurizio to Ventimiglia. Perfect for leisurely coastal rides with mountain views.HikingPaths through olive groves lead to the San Martino church and Monte Acquarone (400m elevation gain). Routes offer stunning valley and sea views.ExcursionsCoastal towns: Cervo (medieval), Alassio (beaches), Bordighera (gardens), Menton & Nice (French Riviera)Inland: Dolcedo (restaurants), Valloria (painted doors), Val Prino villages

TIME OUT

ShoppingSmall grocery stores (alimentari) in Vasia and Pantasina open 7:30 AM - 7:30 PM with lunch breaks. Larger supermarkets (CONAD, COOP, Carrefour) in Imperia offer full selections.Best olive oil: Buy directly from mills in Pantasina.Restaurants & CafésRuota (Porto Maurizio): Exceptional spaghetti vongole and fresh fishLa Fontanella (Dolcedo): Excellent pizzaI Gelati de Fe (Imperia): Outstanding gelato (try ricotta-basil!)Il Moletto: Seaside bar with views of Porto Maurizio's old town

GOOD TO KNOW

WaterTap water is chlorinated. Locals prefer filling bottles at public spring water taps (5 cents/liter) in Vasia, Pantasina, and Dolcedo. Check the Vasia municipality website for water quality updates.MosquitoesSummer brings small mosquitoes that bite in evenings. Bring repellent, wear covering clothing, and consider mosquito screens. Antihistamine cream helps with bites.ClimateMediterranean climate with hot, dry summers. Water conservation is important during dry periods.

LINKS

Official ResourcesVasia Municipality: comune.vasia.im.it
Wikipedia - Vasia: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VasiaLocal InformationRiviera Time: News and features about the region
Mapcarta: Geographic information

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