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Rapallo
The city of Rapallo in the northern region of Liguria in Italy is located between the cities of Portofino and Chiavari on the Tigullo Gulf.
A small village whose villas are built into the rugged cliffs, experiences a fairly moderate climate that makes a sea-side stroll on the promenade a delightful pleasure. In fact, Rapallo has been known for its climate, which has made the city the winter residence of preference for most Italians in the northwest of the country.
Rapallo's coat of arms is laurel leaves along with two yellow-colored eagles along with a yellow-colored crown on a blue shield. The name of the city appears for the first time in a document from 964. In 1203 the Podestà of Rapallo was created, which in 1229 it became a Genoese dominion.
Down the promenade, visitors will find a fort made of stone called Castello sul Mare (Castle-on-the-Sea). Erected in 1551 to counter the frequent pirate attacks who had ransacked Rapallo in 1549, it for the use of firearms, which were beginning to replace traditional weapons at that time, with the only external openings meant for the cannons.
The castle includes a small chapel dedicated to St. Cajetan, built in 1688.
The church of St. Francis of Assisi was begun in 1519, together with the convent nearby. Its pavement is in itself notable with the contrasting white and black cobble-stones following Ligurian tradition. Inside, the church contains a notable wooden Christ by Anton Maria Maragliano, an important 17th century sculptor, whose works are to be found in many churches in the area.
Following Corso Italia brings visitors to the public square in the city center called the Piazza Cavour, where Via Venezia, Via Mazzini and Via Marsala begin. The medieval old town was previously accessible through five ancient gates, only one of which survives in the present day.
