About
The Chiesa di San Lorenzo stands in Manarola, one of the five villages of the Cinque Terre on the Ligurian coast in the province of La Spezia, Italy. Known in English as the Church of Saint Lawrence, it is a 14th-century Gothic church with a commanding position above the village, and it is one of the first things a visitor notices as they climb the hillside streets.
The facade and the setting
The church is recognised for its striking striped facade, which stands out against the colourful houses and terraced vineyards that surround Manarola. From its elevated site, the building looks out over the village and the sea, giving visitors a clear view of the landscape that defines the Cinque Terre.
What to see inside
The church houses important medieval artwork and sculptures, which make it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in the region's religious heritage. Visitors who enjoy Gothic architecture and older art will find the interior the main reason to step inside.
Planning a visit
- Address: Via Discovolo, 19010 Manarola SP, Italy
- Telephone: +39 0187 920629
- Getting there: The church is within the village of Manarola, so it is reached on foot as part of a walk through the village.
Because the church sits above the village, a visit pairs well with a stroll through Manarola's lanes and its harbour. It suits travellers who want a short, scenic stop combining architecture, art and the views of the Ligurian coast.