Dolceacqua: A medieval treasure on the Italian Riviera
Dolceacqua is a picturesque hamlet, situated at the foot of an hill on the Liguria shores, but not so far from the sea and from the city of Ventimiglia. With its full-of-medieval-history surroundings and beautiful landscapes, it has always had some special tourist attractions. Doria Castle stands majestically on a hill above the city, and Dolceacqua seems to be out of time, with narrow streets lined by centuries-old stone houses crowded around the fortress.
But the symbol of the town is the stone arched bridge over the blue-green Nervia River. Though built in the Middle Ages, not Roman times, the bridge itself is an extraordinary construction of great historical importance. It was this very bridge, bathed in moonlight, that captivated Claude Monet. He immortalized it in his painting The Bridge of Dolceacqua. He was so enchanted by the town that he would say to his friends in a letter, "Dolceacqua is no less than heaven."
While medieval charm is definitely one of the main reasons for visiting Dolceacqua, there is more in this small Italian Riviera jewel. This little town is famous for its wines, especially Rossese di Dolceacqua. This full-bodied red wine has been the first in Liguria to receive the prestigious D.O.C. status.
Elaborated with unique varietal, this wine has an aroma of red fruits and spices; the sweetness - not characteristic for modern wines - balances with moderate acidity and smooth tannins.
A Taste of Liguria
Enoteca Regionale della Liguria-Dolceacqua's local headquarters-is the place where to taste Ligurian wines, first of all the famous Rossese di Dolceacqua. Wine tasting is one of those nice things to do and a way to be plunged into the history and tradition of the region.
But getting to know the local wines is getting acquainted with the Dolceacqua cuisine, too. Traditional dishes in modest-looking disguise get very appetising due to fresh Liguria products and classic recipes. The local specialties include: barbagiuai- fried ravioli with a filling made from boiled pumpkin and bruss - a local, sour cheese made from goat's or ewe's milk. The sweet taste of pumpkin goes well with the sour taste of the cheese.
Taggiasca olives and their delicious extra virgin olive oil are everywhere in Dolceacqua. The olive oil plays an essential role in Ligurian cuisine, which has been established over the centuries. On the hills around, the olive groves await the right time to bear these high-class olives. Amidst the Taggiasca olives, the small size, delicate flavor, and slight fruity notes make them great to use in salads, pasta dishes, or snacking alone.
Living the Olive Harvest
Dolceacqua olive mills allow to have one very particular experience: see how olives turn into oil.
Many of these mills are family-run businesses, with knowledge passed down for generations. It is a sight to remember when the golden liquid gets extracted out of the greenish olives. The real revelation is to be had when fresh oil is tasted-the vivid, piquant flavor is quite different from that in store-bought ones.
Visitors can take tours of the mills, sample tastings, and purchase oil straight from the source.
More than Food and Wine
There is more to Dolceacqua than a sight to feast one's eyes. The 12th-century Doria Castle stands to remind one of the powerful family that once ruled over much of Liguria. A tour to the ruins of this castle immediately gives an idea about the turbulent past of the region, and the panorama viewed from this strategic point explains why.
The hills around Dolceacqua are crisscrossed by trails that wind through vineyards, olive groves, and forests for those who love hiking and being outdoors. These have very good views over the Ligurian countryside and are ideal for easy walking or energetic hikes.
A Sensory Feast
Dolceacqua is a real banquet of senses. Much more than just a medieval village, it's a cradle for such incredible culture and nature combined. From the Rossese wine to barbagiuai, from the marvel of the ancient bridge that enchanted Monet to the general dolce far niente, Dolceacqua will be remembered. History, culture, and beauty joined into one unique, unforgettable result.
