Top 4 Castles around Zoagli
Best castles around Zoagli are situated along the Ligurian coast, a region known for its historical structures and Mediterranean Sea views. Zoagli features ancient towers and castles that reflect its rich past and strategic importance. The area offers a blend of architectural styles and coastal locations. Visitors can explore structures ranging from ancient Saracen towers to 19th-century castle complexes.
Best castles around Zoagli
- The most popular castles is View of Castello Brown, a viewpoint that overlooks the bay of Portofino and features a Mediterranean garden. This location offers views of a 16th-century fortress and the town of Portofino.
- Another must-see spot is Rapallo Castle, a castle built in the 16th century as an important defensive post. Its unmistakable silhouette is a symbol of the city of Rapallo.
- Visitors also love Santa Margherita Ligure Castle, a 16th-century fortress built to defend against Barbary pirate attacks. It now hosts the maritime museum.
- Zoagli is known for its defensive towers, noble residences, and fortresses. Visitors can explore structures ranging from ancient Saracen towers to 19th-century castle complexes.
- The castles around Zoagli are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 150 upvotes and 40 photos shared.
Last updated: May 31, 2026
Rapallo Castle
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Chiavari Castle
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In 1178, the decision was made to create the village below, which was then surrounded by walls—of which only a few traces remain today—with three gates and watchtowers.
During its first decades of existence, the Castle endured sieges, conquests, and reconstructions during the struggles between Genoa and the local feudal families, the Fieschi and Malaspina.
With the expansion of the village into the coastal plain and the end of the feudal conflicts, it lost importance and was gradually abandoned until, starting in 1575, some parts of it were demolished as a "gathering place for innovators and exiles."
Today, all that remains is the upstream tower with its terrace, where the Genoese flag flies, two water cisterns that were used to ensure survival during sieges, and a fortified parade ground. The castle is now privately owned but is always open for guided tours for small groups.
(c) comune.chiavari.ge.it/it/vivere/castello
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View of Castello Brown
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Portofino
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Rapallo Castle
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Tips from the Community
From Rapallo, you can reach Portofino by car or public bus. We cycled along the coast. The view is very beautiful. Portofino is a small peninsula with a harbor town and can only be reached on foot. The chapel and the castle are worth a visit. If you're interested, you can walk to the tip of the small island and have something to eat or drink at the lighthouse.
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Castello Brown is a unique location in the bay of Portovino, overlooking the legendary Piazzetta surrounded by prestigious villas. The castle is surrounded by a Mediterranean garden full of flowers, roses, and pergolas. Inside, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea, creating an enchanting experience.
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It was built in 1167 by order of the Genoese consuls on a hilltop in a dominant and panoramic position, as a garrison and outpost in the lands of the Counts of Lavagna, who were hostile to Genoa. In 1178, the decision was made to create the village below, which was then surrounded by walls—of which only a few traces remain today—with three gates and watchtowers. During its first decades of existence, the Castle endured sieges, conquests, and reconstructions during the struggles between Genoa and the local feudal families, the Fieschi and Malaspina. With the expansion of the village into the coastal plain and the end of the feudal conflicts, it lost importance and was gradually abandoned until, starting in 1575, some parts of it were demolished as a "gathering place for innovators and exiles." Today, all that remains is the upstream tower with its terrace, where the Genoese flag flies, two water cisterns that were used to ensure survival during sieges, and a fortified parade ground. The castle is now privately owned but is always open for guided tours for small groups. (c) https://www.comune.chiavari.ge.it/it/vivere/castello
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From above you have a beautiful view
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Portofino is a fishing village located on the Italian Riviera southeast of Genoa. Colorful houses, boutiques, and restaurants line the Piazzetta, a small, cobblestone square overlooking the harbor. From the Piazzetta, a path leads to the church and the Castello Brown, a 16th-century fortress offering beautiful views of the town and the Ligurian Sea.
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The beautiful crescent-shaped town of Portofino stretches along the Ligurian coast of the Italian Riviera and is one of Italy's most beautiful, exclusive and famous seaside destinations. It is a picturesque town filled with colorful buildings in the harbor, boats and yachts bobbing along the shoreline and (lots of) tourists strolling through the streets
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Our tour of the Ligurian Levante makes a short stop in Rapallo to dust off old memories and then continues towards Recco through an internal road full of ups and downs but which allowed us to discover some enchanting small villages
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Located at the eastern end of the Vittorio Veneto seafront, surrounded by the sea and connected to the mainland by a pier, its unmistakable silhouette is one of the symbols of the city of Rapallo.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical castles and towers can I explore directly in Zoagli?
In Zoagli, you can discover several significant historical structures.
Castello Canevaro, originally a 1550 sighting tower, evolved into a noble residence and now operates partly as a boutique hotel, offering a blend of architectural styles and stunning sea views. While primarily a private residence, Sem Benelli Castle is a notable sight for its architectural beauty and historical connections to figures like Nietzsche. Additionally, the Saracen Towers, particularly the restored Torre Saracena, offer insights into Zoagli's defensive past and provide breathtaking panoramas.
Are there any castles near Zoagli that offer guided tours?
Yes, Chiavari Castle, built in 1167, is privately owned but offers guided tours for small groups. It features an upstream tower and a fortified parade ground, providing a glimpse into its long history of sieges and reconstructions.
What are the best viewpoints to see castles and the coastline near Zoagli?
For spectacular views, consider visiting View of Castello Brown and View of Portofino and Castello Brown. These viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramas of the 16th-century Castello Brown, the charming town of Portofino, and the Ligurian Sea. The Torre Saracena in Zoagli also provides stunning coastal views.
Are there family-friendly activities or castles to visit near Zoagli?
While many castles are historical sites, the town of Portofino, which features Castello Brown, is considered family-friendly. You can explore the colorful harbor, stroll through the Piazzetta, and enjoy the general atmosphere. The Mediterranean garden surrounding Castello Brown also offers a pleasant experience for families.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Zoagli?
The region around Zoagli offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including road cycling and gravel biking. For instance, you can explore routes like 'Provincial Road to Portofino' or 'The city of Chiavari - ring tour from Zoagli'. For more details, check the Road Cycling Routes around Zoagli, Gravel biking around Zoagli, and Cycling around Zoagli guides.
What is the history behind Castello Canevaro in Zoagli?
Castello Canevaro has a rich history, evolving from a 1550 sighting tower. It became the historic residence of the Canevaro family in the mid-19th century. The castle showcases a blend of architectural styles, including a 1547 tower and later neo-Renaissance additions, reflecting centuries of development from a defensive structure to a noble estate.
Can I visit Sem Benelli Castle in Zoagli?
Sem Benelli Castle, located on a rocky spur overlooking the sea, is primarily a private luxury residence. While its architectural beauty and panoramic views make it a significant sight, public access is generally not available. Its allure is enhanced by its history of hosting illustrious figures like Nietzsche and Ezra Pound.
What is the significance of the Saracen Towers in Zoagli?
The Saracen Towers are ancient defensive structures that played a crucial role in protecting the Bay of Zoagli from pirate raids. The Torre Saracena (Eastern Tower) has been restored by the Municipality and is now used for civil wedding ceremonies, cultural events, and exhibitions, offering a historical setting with stunning views.
What do visitors appreciate most about the castles and historical sites around Zoagli?
Visitors frequently highlight the breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea and the historical significance of the sites. The blend of ancient defensive structures and noble residences, often set amidst Mediterranean gardens, creates an enchanting experience. The opportunity to see places like Castello Brown overlooking Portofino is particularly popular.
Are there any castles near Zoagli that are easily accessible?
While specific accessibility details vary, many of the viewpoints and towns like Portofino, which features Castello Brown, are generally accessible for visitors. The Torre Saracena in Zoagli, used for public events, also implies a degree of accessibility.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles and historical sites near Zoagli?
The Ligurian coast generally enjoys a mild climate, making spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) ideal for visiting. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities without the peak summer crowds or intense heat.
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