Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Castle · Vernazza, Ligúria
Castello Doria
Medieval fortress on the rock that closes Vernazza's harbor, with a cylindrical tower that is the oldest part and offers views over the village and the coast.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Castello Doria
The Castello Doria stands atop the roughly 70-meter rock that protects the south side of Vernazza's small harbor. The first mentions of a castle there date from the 13th century, but the original core is believed to be from the 11th century.
The oldest part is the cylindrical tower, at the center of the esplanade, restored in the 20th century. The plan is irregular because the castle adapts to the shape of the rock. Over the centuries it passed through noble regional families and the República de Gênova; during World War II it was used as an anti-aircraft post by the occupying German forces.
From the terrace and the tower you can see the entire village: the Piazza Marconi, the harbor with the fishermen's boats, the church of Santa Margherita and, in the distance, the coast towards Monterosso. Just below the castle, at the harbor entrance, is the Bastione Belforte, another Genoese-period defense.
The harbor is the heart of Vernazza: a small cove, surrounded by colorful houses, with a tiny beach and the piazza full of tables. It's the arrival point for boats in season.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes at the castle; another half hour to walk around the harbor and the piazza.
Best time
In the morning, before the bigger crowds, or late in the afternoon, with the light on the houses. Check opening hours, which change with the season.
How to get there
From Vernazza station, walk down the main street to the harbor. Access to the castle is via a staircase that rises from the Piazza Marconi, in a few minutes.
Tip
There is an entrance fee for the castle, a nominal amount; check before going. The ascent has narrow steps.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castello Doria
How old is the castle?
The first mentions are from the 13th century, and the original core is believed to be from the 11th century. The cylindrical tower is the oldest part.
Is the climb long?
No. It's only a few minutes up a staircase from the Piazza Marconi, with narrow steps.
What can you see from up there?
The harbor, the entire village, the church of Santa Margherita and the coast towards Monterosso.
Do boats stop in Vernazza?
Yes, in season, which usually runs from spring until the beginning of November. Boats dock in the harbor, next to the piazza.