Details
Founded: 13th centuryCategory: Castles and fortifications in France
Historical period: Late Capetians (France)
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Château de Vaison-la-Romaine was originally a wooden tower erected in 1185 to assert the power of Raymond VI, Count of Toulouse. It was transformed in the 13th century into a fortified building comprising three main buildings and a square keep surrounding an inner courtyard. In 1274, it became a pontifical possession until 1791.
Solidly built on a rocky outcrop, overlooking the town, it can be seen from all sides as an unmissable landmark. From its forecourt, a magnificent panorama awaits you. On the heights around the castle, you can enjoy the sumptuous views, but the castle itself is not open to visitors.
References:Manarola is a small town, a frazione of the comune of Riomaggiore. It is the second-smallest of the famous Cinque Terre towns frequented by tourists, with a population of 353.
Manarola may be the oldest of the towns in the Cinque Terre, with the cornerstone of the church, San Lorenzo, dating from 1338. The local dialect is Manarolese, which is marginally different from the dialects in the nearby area. The name 'Manarola' is probably a dialectical evolution of the Latin, 'magna rota'. In the Manarolese dialect this was changed to 'magna roea' which means 'large wheel', in reference to the mill wheel in the town.
Manarola's primary industries have traditionally been fishing and wine-making. The local wine, called Sciacchetrà, is especially renowned; references from Roman writings mention the high quality of the wine produced in the region.