Dolceacqua, Claude Monet’s favourite Ligurian getaway

Dolceacqua is an enchanting borgo perched on a hill of the Val Nervia, embedded in the westernmost part of the Riviera dei Fiori. The origins of its name are not certain: whatever the pick - a derivation from Latin "villa dulciaca", i.e., rural plot belonging to Dulcius, or a word of Celtic roots - this is one of the truest rappresentations of the Mediterranean spirit between Liguria and Provence.

Dolceacqua was awarded the Orange Flag of TCI (Touring Club Italiano). It stands amidst the clear waters of the Nervia stream, a dream in stone skilfully embedding houses, castle and bridge - the archetypical borgo. Its history is linked to the vicissitudes of the Doria household, who ruled the place. The bridge was defined as a "jewel of lightness" by Claude Monet, who fell in love with the Riviera and dedicated several paintings to the highlights of Dolceacqua.  The village was also the birthplace of Mario Raimondo, one of Pablo Picasso's disciples.  

 

Local traditions display the curiosity of Michetta, a dessert that features De.Co.  (Denominazione Comunale) certification. Flour, eggs, sugar and oil are the ingredients of this simple treat, whose legendary origins date back to a bygone tale of Jus Primae Noctis.  Last but not least, the renown of the borgo is due to Rossese di Dolceacqua, one of the stars of regional oenology. Appreciated by the big shots of the past (from admiral Andrea Doria to Napoleon), this interesting red wine features an intriguing personality. 

 

My English abstract of the article as published on LiguriaFood

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