This is a special time in Italy: it’s Ferragosto. The 15th of August is originally a religious festivity, honoring the Virgin Lady, but not many know that, because it coincides with the hottest days of the year and the time when traditionally most people take their time off for vacations.
Also in La Spezia, you will see many shops closed, and the streets are kind of deserted. Don’t worry though, the newly found touristic town’s call makes many shop and restaurants owners work also in this time.
If you are in town over the weekend, there are many “sagre”: food festivals usually organized in small towns by local people who prepare and serve their typical food.
On Monday, don’t miss the celebration of the Madonna Bianca, an extraordinary scenographic celebration in Portovenere, of the “White Holy Lady” picture that was found at sea many centuries ago, and today kept in the Church of San Lorenzo.
The ark with which the miraculous image is transported through the town’s streets, stopping in the square of the Church of St. Peter, where thousands of torches are lit for the occasion. The candles scattered throughout the stack to the church of San Pietro return a beautiful and unique view.
You can reach Portovenere by boat, additional service will be added to the current ferry schedule or by bus. Private traffic in Portovenere will be stopped from the afternoon of Monday the 17th.
Additional service runs at 5.20, 7.30, 8.00 and 8.20 pm
Return fare is 10.00 €