Ameglia (La Spezia)

Inhabitants 5.000
Area 17 Sq km
Altitude 80 m. asl
A12 motorway exit - Sarzana

Ameglia is located in the lower part of the Val di Magra, on a hill dominating the Luni plain. The name of the village is very old and its origin are mysterious and fascinating: according to one hypothesis, "Ameglia" comes from the name of a ramification of the via Emilia; according to others, the name derives from amigdala (almond), or from the use of the suffix -eglia with the word lama (blade).

Ameglia's territory is variegated: it goes from the mouth of the river Magra to the Caprione hills over the La Spezia Gulf, to the plains facing Luni on the right side of the Magra. In the valle, Ameglia's region is the most developed in terms of tourism, thanks to its harbours along the Magra River. Ameglia is also rich in history, which can be traced back from pre-Roman times through the Middle Ages up to now. The village is perched on the top of a hill and is dominated by two towers: one cylindrical and one square, belonging to the Pieve di San Vincenzo.

Ameglia is characterised by a number of picturesque narrow roads entwined at the foot of a massive stone castle. Slate arcs, stairs and renaissance doorways enrich the village. From the door of the church of S. Vincenzo and Anastasio it is possible to enjoy a beautiful view of the Alpi Apuane which tinge with pink and purple at sunset.