Pignone is located in the mid Vara Valley. It derives its name from the stream of Pignone, an affluent of the Vara River.
The village of Pignone has ancient origins. It passed under various dominions during the medieval period, due to its strategic position. It finally became part of the Republic of Genoa.
Traces of the different dominions can be seen in the village architecture. Pignone is a typical Ligurian inland village. Its shape is linear, with intersecting alleys branching off the main street. Its houses were built along the banks of central canal. The village can be reached by crossing a characteristic 16th century bridge, the Ponte Vecchio. The imposing village gate, Porta Maestra, and the romanesque parish church Santa Maria Assunta,can be found near the bridge.
The landscape surrounding Pignone is typically rural. The hills are covered with chestnut trees, vegetable garden sand vineyards.
Many footpaths connect this area with the rest of the Vara Valley and the Cinque Terre.
Pignone is also famous for its potatoes, onions and beans. These vegetables have been included in the Ligurian Regional list of typical, high quality agricultural products. These delicious vegetables can be tasted at the food fair, the Festa degli Orti di Pignone, which takes place every year at the end of August.
Highway A12, 15 km far from the tollgate of La Spezia
Train station: La Spezia(info: www.trenitalia.com)