Popular Italian Landmark Reopens After 12-Year Renovation

Image: Path of Love or via Dell'Amore in Cinque Terre National Park. (Photo Credit: bennymarty / Adobe Stock)

by Rich Thomaselli
Last updated: 2:40 PM ET, Mon August 5, 2024

Twelve years is a long time, but it was worth every second. The Path of Love, part of Italy’s Cinque Terre, has opened again after a 12-year renovation. It is known for its stunning views and romantic atmosphere.

It reopened for residents on July 27 and will open for the general public on August 9.

For those fluent in Italian, it is also called the Via dell’Amore.?The Cinque Terre is one of the most magnificent places in Europe, and the renovated trail is now illuminated and boasts handrails.

Ironically, the path began more than 100 years ago not as an ode to romance but as a railroad tunnel. It did not gain its reputation as a spot for lovers until after World War II. The reason for the path's closure was the constant landslides, one of which injured four tourists 12 years ago.

Fabrizia Pecunia, the Mayor of Riomaggiore and Manarola, told the?Guardian:?“The reopening has been eagerly awaited by everyone here."

Italy, of course, has numerous incredible sites.

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Rich Thomaselli

Associate Writer

Editor Associate Writer true 9281 14744 Rich Thomaselli has written for TravelPulse since 2014 and has been a professional journalist for nearly 40 years. His work has appeared in USA Today, the New York Times and New York Yankees publications. He is an 11-time writ