Colletta, the “Silicon Valley” of Liguria

The village of Colletta, one of The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy, owes its origins to the castle of the Marquises of Clavesana, now in ruins, built in a defensive position overlooking the valley. As early as 1202, the territory of Castelbianco belonged to the Clavesana; the castle controlled trade and taxation. Conquered by the Cepolla family in 1270, it returned to the Clavesana in 1288, then passed to the Del Carretto and the Marquises of Zuccarello. In 1588, Carlo Emanuele I of Savoy attempted to occupy it, while between 1623 and 1643 the village alternated between Savoy and Genoa. In the 19th century, Castelbianco reached its peak, but the 1887 earthquake led to depopulation. Between 1993 and 1999, entrepreneurs and architect Giancarlo De Carlo restored the village, respecting original materials while introducing modern infrastructures for remote work, enhancing the peace of the Ligurian hinterland.

What to see in Colletta

Once a pile of ruins, Colletta di Castelbianco became the first European example of a telematic medieval village thanks to the project of architect Giancarlo De Carlo. Stone houses, carruggi, small squares, terraces, and the white windows typical of Savona’s tradition coexist with technology that enables remote work and global connectivity.

The project sparked mixed opinions: some criticized its appearance, while others, such as the English, awarded the restoration with the Homes Overseas Awards 2006. Integrating discreet high technology while respecting architectural heritage—stone stairways, vaulted ceilings—was a challenge successfully met, transforming Colletta from ruins into a livable village, with views over terraced olive groves and cherry orchards. De Carlo described the village as a “crustacean system” due to its shape. Colletta offers tranquility, seclusion, and the luxury of time, with paths through local flavors and landmarks such as the Church of the Assunta and the Chapel of the Annunziata.

Events and traditions of the village

Colletta di Castelbianco offers ecological walks on foot or horseback among olive and cherry trees, as well as challenging treks to Monte Alpe (1,056 m) and along the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri. Enthusiasts of more technical sports can enjoy mountain biking, speleology in karst caves, and free climbing on limestone cliffs and towers. The village is an ideal destination for lovers of nature, trekking, authentic cuisine, and outdoor life. Castelbianco contributes to the agricultural vocation of the Albenga plain with woodland products, vegetables, aromatic herbs, olives, and fruit, especially cherries and figs. The Festa dell’Olio in December celebrates the new oil, while extra virgin olive oil from Taggiasca, Merline, Pignole, and Cevasche olives is cold-pressed, preserving the authentic flavor of Ligurian tradition.

What to see near the village

Just a few kilometers from Colletta di Castelbianco, visitors can discover charming Ligurian villages such as Veravo, with the Church of the Assunta overlooking the valley, and Vesallo, where the Baroque Chapel of the Annunziata stands out. Nature lovers can explore the trails of the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri or climb Monte Alpe for breathtaking views. Olive groves, orchards, and woods abound, perfect for walks and horseback excursions. The more adventurous can enjoy mountain biking, free climbing, and speleology. The surrounding area also offers local products such as extra virgin olive oil, cherries, and mushrooms, perfect for savoring the authenticity of the Riviera di Ponente.

Cover photo credits: maudanros