Small fishing village in Italy is known as the 'hidden of the rich': What's so attractive?

The Northwest region of Italy has a paradise, a favorite refuge for the rich and famous. Located on the Italian Riviera, the fishing village of Portofino has been known as a holiday destination for the British aristocracy and celebrities since the early 1900s.

The warm yet cool climate, the seclusion afforded by the hills and vegetation make Portofino a sought-after getaway, immersed in the natural surroundings.

Today, Portofino is still a pretty little town with brightly colored houses, facing the harbor with crystal clear blue water. As of 2017, it had just over 410 residents.

The place is known as the lifestyle of the rich and famous

Portofino is famous for its unique beauty that combines the quintessence of Mediterranean nature with one of the picturesque landscapes on the Italian coast.

According to the philosopher Pliny the Elder, this village was founded by the Romans. It was named Portus Delphini (Dolphin Harbor) because of the large number of dolphins that inhabit the sea. At that time, anyone who wanted to see dolphins with their own eyes, they must be the richest people in the world.

The village was once owned by the Bobbio Monastery (founded by Saint Colombanus). Like many European cities and towns, Portofino has undergone a period of change of hands. It was once owned by a noble, who then sold it to another and so on.

Portofino fishing village.

By the late 19th century, Portofino had become a buzzword among Europe's elites, which included financiers, presidents, celebrities, and heads of industry. Former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, French poet Guy de Maupassant, Italian radio inventor Guglielmo Marconi. were seen spending time in Portofino.

During the 20th century, its reputation became more solid. Famous Hollywood stars such as Elizabeth Taylor, Madonna, George Clooney and Denzel Washington. also often come to Portofino to relax.

But Portofino is not limited to tourists who are rich. Even the average person cannot resist its picturesque beauty and laid-back atmosphere.

Photo: Portofino Coast.

Portofino's "treasures"

Elizabeth Taylor or Denzel Washington don't come to Portofino just to stroll the beach or admire the breathtaking views. There are many things in Portofino that visitors can experience.

The "heart" of Portofino is the small Piazzetta square that is always full of people. Standing in the square, people can also look out at the harbor and the countless boats moored.

At the square, visitors can enjoy traditional specialties or simply sit and experience the vastness of the Ligurian Sea with their own eyes. An abundance of shops, art galleries and restaurants are located in the surroundings, making the bustling center an ideal gathering spot.

Photo: Life In Italy.

One of the attractions that should not be missed is the Castle of Castello Brown. The castle is nestled atop a hill overlooking the harbor in Portofino, surrounded by extensive gardens. The old part of the castle is believed to have been built around 400 AD, used as a Roman fortress.

The castle was the famous venue for the wedding of Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker. Services at Castello Brown include civics, weddings, conferences and seminars, art exhibitions, catering and private events.

Depending on the time (weekdays or weekends, in the period of October-March, April-September), the castle rental fee excluding VAT ranges from 1,000 euros (about 25 million VND) to 5,000 euros (about 25 million VND). 124 million dong).

Photo: Carlo Moruchio/Getty.

Castello Brown Castle sits atop the harbor in Portofino.

Just a short walk above the old fishing village, through the hills near Castello Brown, you can see the Church of San Giorgio. The church was built in the 12th century in Romanesque style with a bright yellow brick facade. Coming to the church, visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of the magnificent unspoiled coastline overlooking the sea.

Photo: Traveling King.

Church of San Giorgio.

About 200 meters from the church, visitors can see Portofino's lighthouse. It was built more than 100 years ago and still works, although today it is automated.

If you are a water lover, you should not miss a kayak excursion, the opportunity to explore the wonderful stretch of coastline from a different perspective. In addition, Mount Portofino Natural Regional Park (roughly translated: Mount Portofino Natural Regional Park) is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the unspoiled natural beauty, with the most wonderful plant varieties in the Mediterranean. .

Lighthouse in Portofino.