MANAROLA, Church Of San Lorenzo - Ai Voice

The Church of San Lorenzo, dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, is the main church of the village and holds more than seven centuries of history. Its construction dates back to 1338, a time when Manarola was growing thanks to its terraced vineyards and maritime trade. It’s no surprise, then, that the inhabitants wanted to build such a solemn structure, destined to become the center of the community’s religious and social life.

The façade, typical of Ligurian Gothic style, is both simple and imposing. The stone portal with its pointed arch is topped by a lunette depicting the martyrdom of Saint Lawrence, to whom the church is dedicated. The most striking feature, however, is the large rose window made of Carrara marble, added in 1375 — a masterpiece of sculpture, with twelve slender columns and a frame adorned with human and lion motifs.

Next to the church stands the bell tower, separate from the main structure and built on a base that once served as a watchtower....