Porto Venere - Italy
< < Previous Photo Next Photo > >
The Church of St. Peter (S. Pietro) is on a promontory overlooking the Ligurian Coast. According to some archaeologists, during pagan times the site used to be a temple to Venus Eryccina. During the first years of Christianity, the site was changed to a Christian church. In 1256, the Genoese built the church of S. Pietro over the original Christian temple. Its purpose was to thank the residents of Porto Venere for their help in taking the Lerici castle.
The church is a short walk along the coast from the pier. It is well worth the walk, as the church is fascinating and the view of the ocean below and the Arpaia Grotto is wonderful.
Photo © 2000 Linda Garrison, licensed to About.com, Inc.
Article on Porto Venere from the About Cruises Guide
