The Castello sul Mare was built in 1551 as a defensive fort against pirates who had conducted raids, including the kidnappings of local civilians, in 1549…
Standing by the water at Rapallo, on the Ligurian coast, the Castello sul Mare – also known as the Castello di Rapallo – connects by a small bridge to a promontory where a sandy beach is enjoyed by sunbathers, blessedly oblivious to the long gone threat of piracy and kidnap. These days, the first three days of July see the castle ‘on fire’ as fireworks and smoke bombs shower it in honour of the Madonna of Montallegro, the patron saint of Rapallo, who has a Sanctuary in her name in the town, built in 1558.
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