Liguria facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Liguria
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| Country | Italy | ||
| Capital | Genoa | ||
| Area | |||
| • Total | 5,422 km2 (2,093 sq mi) | ||
| Population
(1 January 2011)
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| • Total | 1,617,000 | ||
| • Density | 298.23/km2 (772.41/sq mi) | ||
| Time zone | UTC+1 (CET) | ||
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+2 (CEST) | ||
| GDP/ Nominal | € 44.1 billion (2008) | ||
| GDP per capita | € 27,100 (2008) | ||
| NUTS Region | ITC | ||
| Website | www.regione.liguria.it | ||
Liguria is a beautiful region located in the northwest part of Italy. It's known for its stunning coastline along the Ligurian Sea, which is part of the Mediterranean Sea. The capital city of Liguria is Genoa.
About 1.6 million people live in Liguria. The region is shaped like a crescent moon, with mountains behind it and the sea in front. This unique geography makes it a very special place to visit and live.
Contents
Liguria's Provinces
Liguria is divided into four main areas called provinces. Each province has its own capital city. These are:
- Province of Genoa (Genova) – This is where the capital city of Liguria, Genoa, is located.
- Province of La Spezia
- Province of Savona
- Province of Imperia
Geography and Landscape
Liguria is famous for its dramatic landscape. It has tall mountains like the Apennine Mountains and the Maritime Alps that drop steeply down to the sea. This creates many cliffs, small bays, and sandy beaches.
The region's coastline is often called the Italian Riviera. It stretches for about 350 kilometers (217 miles). You can find charming fishing villages, busy ports, and popular tourist resorts all along this coast.
Climate of Liguria
Liguria has a mild Mediterranean climate. This means it has warm, sunny summers and mild winters. The mountains protect the coast from cold winds, making it pleasant almost all year round. This climate is perfect for growing olive trees, grapevines, and flowers.
A Glimpse into History
Liguria has a very long and interesting history. Ancient people called the Ligures lived here even before the Roman Empire. The Romans later took control of the area.
The Republic of Genoa
One of the most important parts of Liguria's history is the Republic of Genoa. From the 11th century until the late 18th century, Genoa was a powerful independent state. It was a major trading hub and a strong naval power. Genoese ships sailed all over the Mediterranean and beyond, bringing wealth and influence to the city.
Many famous explorers and figures came from Liguria during this time. For example, Christopher Columbus, the famous explorer who sailed to America, was born in Genoa.
Modern Liguria
After the Republic of Genoa ended, Liguria became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia and later the unified Italy in 1861. In the 19th century, Giuseppe Mazzini, a key figure in Italy's unification, was also from Genoa. He was a patriot and philosopher who worked to create a single, free Italy.
Economy and Tourism
Liguria's economy relies heavily on its port, tourism, and agriculture.
The Port of Genoa
The port of Genoa is one of the busiest ports in Italy and the Mediterranean. It handles a huge amount of goods and is a major center for shipping and trade. This port has been important for centuries, connecting Italy to the rest of the world.
Popular Tourist Destinations
Tourism is a big part of Liguria's economy. People come from everywhere to enjoy the beautiful scenery, charming towns, and delicious food. Some of the most famous places include:
- Cinque Terre: This means "Five Lands." It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with five colorful fishing villages built into the cliffs. They are connected by hiking trails and a railway.
- Sanremo: Known for its beautiful flowers, its casino, and the famous Sanremo Music Festival.
- Portofino: A picturesque fishing village and popular resort known for its harbor and luxury shops.
Ligurian Culture and Cuisine
Liguria has a rich culture, especially when it comes to food. The region's cuisine is known for being fresh, simple, and full of flavor.
Famous Ligurian Food
The most famous dish from Liguria is pesto. This delicious green sauce is made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Sardo, and olive oil. It's often served with pasta, especially a type called trofie or trenette.
Other local specialties include focaccia (a flat oven-baked bread), fresh seafood, and delicious olive oil made from local olives.
Images for kids
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A view of Cinque Terre
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Map of Roman Liguria, between the River Var and Magra
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Map of ancient Liguria, between the river Var and Magra. Cannes was annexed by France in Middle Ages.
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The Roman amphitheatre of Luni (1st century AD)
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Simonetta Vespucci, a native Ligurian who was a famous beauty during the Renaissance, may have been the model for Botticelli's The Birth of Venus
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Territories of the Republic of Genoa (shown in purple)
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Posthumous portrait of Christopher Columbus, by Sebastiano del Piombo
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Reparation faite à Louis XIV par le Doge de Gênes.15 mai 1685 by Claude Guy Halle
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Giuseppe Mazzini was a patriot, philosopher and politician of the 19th century.
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Apricale with Monte Bignone in the background
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The port of Genoa is the busiest in Italy.
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Moneglia
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Sanremo casino
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Pasta with pesto is a traditional Ligurian recipe.
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See also
In Spanish: Liguria para niños
