PORTOVENERE, Doria Castle - Ai Voice

The Doria Castle of Portovenere is one of the most imposing medieval fortresses in Liguria. Its origins date back to the 12th century, when the Republic of Genoa, having just taken control of the village, decided to establish a permanent stronghold there.

Don’t be misled by the name: this was not a noble residence but a military fortress. In fact, as with the castle of Vernazza, the Doria family—one of Genoa’s most influential dynasties—never lived here.

The first documented fortification was completed around 1161 in a strategic position near the Church of San Pietro. It featured twin towers and included distinct areas: the lower level housed the podestà and Genoese officials during their term, while the upper level was reserved for the castellan and the garrison, with austere rooms suited to military life. Over the centuries, and amid the ongoing tensions between Genoa and Pisa, the structure was repeatedly reinforced. A major transformation occurred between the 15th and 16th centuries, when the old castle was largely demolished and rebuilt according to more modern principles, to adapt it to the advent of firearms....