by MUDIF – Museo Diffuso di Finale

A fascinating journey through history and art is what you can experience in Finale Ligure throughout the coming spring. A series of guided tours reveal the rich cultural heritage of the area, promoted by MUDIF – Museo Diffuso del Finale.

Exploring the Caverna delle Arene Candide

The Caverna delle Arene Candide is one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. This fascinating prehistoric site, best known for the discovery of the burial site of the “Giovane Principe” (Young Prince) – a Palaeolithic hunter buried with a rich collection of grave goods – has yielded unique finds that tell the story of human life up to 30,000 years ago.

The tour, led by expert archaeologists, is a real journey back in time, among the secrets of prehistory. The cave can be reached independently, starting from the Borgio Verezzi railway station and following a picturesque scenic route between Via della Cornice and the historic Strada Napoleonica, which makes the experience even more immersive.

Visits are scheduled on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. The next available dates are: 22 March, 5 April, 19 April, 26 April, 17 May and 31 May.

The cost of the guided tour and all other information can be found here

Castel Gavone: a plunge into the Middle Ages

Dominating Finalborgo from the top of an imposing hill, Castel Gavone is one of the symbols of Finale, among its most fascinating historical landmarks. Built in the 12th century as the residence of the Marquises Del Carretto, the castle has undergone centuries of transformations, while maintaining its charm intact.

The guided tour led by an archaeologist allows visitors to explore the different stages of the building’s evolution, from the Middle Ages to the Modern Age, culminating in the impressive Torre dei Diamanti (Diamond Tower), a masterpiece of Renaissance fortified architecture in Italy. Immersed in spectacular surroundings, the experience offers a privileged insight into the history and fortifications of the area.

The next guided tours, lasting approximately two hours, will take place on the following dates: Sunday, March 30, at 10 a.m.; Saturday, May 5, 19, and 26, at 3 p.m.; Saturday, May 3, 10, and 31, at 4 p.m. Tickets cost €10 for adults and €5 for children.

Info

Special encounters with the archaeology of Finale

The Museo Diffuso del Finale also offers fascinating special tours to discover lesser-known places of great historical and artistic value.

On April 12 at 3 p.m., visitors will have the opportunity to explore Perti, a village that preserves splendid examples of architecture from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The itinerary will take visitors from the charming Romanesque crypt of Sant’Eusebio di Perti to the church of Nostra Signora di Loreto, known as “Cinque Campanili” (Five Bell Towers), and will conclude with a visit to the Torre dei Diamanti (Diamond Tower) of Castel Gavone. Info

On May 4, the doors of the Oliveri Chapel, located in the Santa Caterina complex, will open. This small artistic gem houses a precious cycle of medieval frescoes, rediscovered in 1965 and restored in 2003, depicting scenes from the life of Mary and the Passion of Jesus. Info

The spring cycle will conclude on June 21 with a visit to the Pieve del Finale, one of the most important examples of early Christian and medieval churches in Liguria. The remains of the ancient parish church, discovered in the 1940s, are preserved under the current church of the Capuchin Friars in Via Brunenghi in Finalmarina. Info

Finale Ligure offers a unique opportunity to discover its cultural landscape and historical and archaeological heritage through engaging experiences. Guided tours of the MUDIF allow you to explore fascinating places, from prehistoric caves to medieval castles and hidden artistic treasures. Whether it’s a journey into prehistory or a stroll among Renaissance architecture, each itinerary tells a piece of the area’s history, enriching your visit with new perspectives.

Reservations and information

Reservations are required for all guided tours organized by MUDIF and the Archaeological Museum of Finale. For information: +39 019 690020 – info@museoarcheofinale.it