Sanremo: history and historical overview
Founded during Roman times along the Via Julia Augusta, Sanremo (then Villa Matutia) has ancient origins, with early traces dating back to the Paleolithic era. In the Middle Ages, to defend against Saracen pirates, the settlement was moved up to the Pigna hill. It was in Sanremo, in 1951, that the famous Festival of Italian Song was born, helping to free the Riviera from being a winter-only destination and launching it into the international jet set scene.
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What to visit in Sanremo
Cathedral of San Siro
A Romanesque building from the 12th century, ancient center of the city’s religious life
La Pigna
The medieval heart, a maze of alleys and concentric stairways, overlooked by the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Costa and the Queen Elena Gardens
Sanctuary of the Madonna della Costa & Queen Elena Gardens
The latter, built just below the sanctuary, offers a breathtaking view of the gulf
Ariston Theatre & Sanremo Casino
The Festival has been held at the Ariston since 1977, while until 1976 the event took place at the Casino. The Matteotti promenade, known as “la vasca”, still retains its elite atmosphere
Historic villas and museums
Villa Nobel (former residence of Alfred Nobel), Villa Ormond and the Rambaldi Art Gallery (featuring works from the 15th to the 19th century) are unmissable.
Forte di Santa Tecla
A strategic Genoese fortress next to the port, a testament to the city’s past struggle for autonomy.
Russian Orthodox Church and Covered Market
The stunning church in Russian style is a reminder of the aristocratic presence in the 19th–20th century. Don’t miss the lively indoor market.
Outdoor activities
Strolls along the seaside bike path, boat trips, whale watching, golf, tennis and much more.
The Festival of Italian Song
A cornerstone of Italian musical culture, born in 1951 and broadcast on TV since 1955. It inspired Eurovision and continues to make millions of fans dream.
During Festival week in February, Corso Matteotti comes alive with side events, music, stands and crowds of visitors — many of whom arrive by cruise, like those on the Costa Toscana.
Useful information
Climate: Mediterranean – mild in winter, perfect for beach holidays in summer.
How to get there:
By train: central station connected to Genoa, Milan, Nice and Ventimiglia via the regional rail network.
By car: A10/E80 motorway.
Getting around: Compact center, ideal to explore on foot; local buses connect beaches and hillside neighborhoods.
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for beauty and peace; February for the Festival experience.
Our Terramata Resort
Located ~13 km east of Sanremo, in the charming village of Santo Stefano al Mare, Terramata Resort offers Provençal-style apartments and a modern villa, pool, garden, and Jacuzzi.
By car: about 15 min along the coastal road (SS1).
Public transport: direct bus to Sanremo (local lines), approx. 25–30 min travel time, with regular frequency.
The property is the perfect base to enjoy a relaxed setting with easy access to the city and beaches.
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Not to be missed
A selfie on the Festival red carpet at the Ariston.
A stroll through La Pigna’s historical alleys and views.
Peace and comfort at Terramata, with the sea just steps away.
Bike or boat trips to enjoy the natural beauty of the Riviera dei Fiori.
In shortSanremo
Sanremo offers a unique blend of art, music, sea and history. Whether you’re drawn by the glamor of the Festival or the quiet beauty of Liguria, here each day has its own charm. For those seeking stylish relaxation, Terramata Resort is a winning choice: a peaceful retreat with Sanremo within reach.
Useful Link
www.comunedisanremo.it
www.comune.sanremo.im.it
www.aristonsanremo.com
www.casasanremo.it
www.fondazionesanremosymphonyorchestra.it
www.villanobel.it
www.pinacotecarambaldi.it
www.museidisanremo.it
www.fortesantatecla.com
www.casinosanremo.it
www.sanremoinfiore.it
www.milano-sanremo.it
www.runforthewhales.it
www.cicloviadelrivieradeifiori.it
www.info-sanremo.com
www.rai.it/programmi/sanremo
www.rivieratrasporti.it
www.portosolesanremo.it
www.sanremonews.it
www.sanremoguide.it
www.asl1.liguria.it
