Doria Castle – one of the most evocative sites in Liguria

History and description

Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the village of Porto Venere, Doria Castle is a pentagonal‑shaped building. Externally, it features bastions facing the sea, a circular tower, an entrance portal once accessible via a drawbridge (no longer present), guard structures, and patrol walkways. Inside, it houses the Hypostyle Hall, characterized by ribbed vaults and pillars, and the Captain’s House, the residence of the fortress commander. Rebuilt on the remains of an older structure after the Republic of Genoa gained control of Porto Venere, the castle was later expanded to meet defensive needs and, during the Napoleonic era, was even used as a political prison. Today, it belongs to the Municipality of Porto Venere and is part of the Porto Venere Regional Natural Park.

Curiosities

For many years contested between Genoa and Pisa, the castle—likely named after the Doria family, deeply tied to Genoese tradition—is actually composed of two adjoining structures that were later separated. Today, it serves as a venue for cultural exhibitions and private events, as well as a privileged spot offering panoramic views over the Gulf of Poets.

Access

Open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, the castle can be visited at the cost of €5, with free entry and specific reductions available.

How to reach it

Located in the province of La Spezia, the castle can be reached by car (parking outside the town center), by train to La Spezia, by bus (lines P and 11), or by sea through various maritime connections.

Considered one of the most important military monuments in Liguria, Doria Castle is an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts.

Photo credits: Manfo~commonswiki (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 2.5