Join Monaco Life’s Niki Borisova as she heads into Liguria to visit the medieval village of Apricale and uncover its historical connections to the Principality’s ruling dynasty, the Grimaldis.
The drive to Apricale takes you through the picturesque town of Dolceacqua, which was officially twinned with the Principality of Monaco at the end of 2023.
Just like its bigger neighbour, Apricale was also once a Grimaldi-owned fiefdom. The village can trace its connections with the Principality back to the 13th century, when Oberto Grimaldi took control of the hilltop fortress, which had prospered during the early Middle Ages. Under the Grimaldis, Apricale was fortified further and became an important local stronghold for the family.
See more: Photos: After 500 years of family ties, Monaco and Dolceacqua are officially “twinned”
In November 2023, Prince Albert II of Monaco paid a visit to Apricale and was given the honour of unveiling a commemorative plaque in the main piazzetta that celebrates these historical ties. Months later, Monegasque flags can still be observed fluttering from balconies and buildings in the village, flying proudly alongside a combination of Italian and European Union flags.
Apricale’s name comes from the Latin word apricus, meaning ‘sunny’. It is clear to see why and how it earned this moniker. Basking in sunlight on a Ligurian hillside, the stones of the village’s buildings seem to glow, turning golden as the day progresses.
See more: Prince Albert II traces the Italian branches of the Grimaldi family tree in Liguria
Apricale is a honeycomb of narrow streets and tall houses that lead visitors through to a central piazza. The Piazza Vittorio Emanuele is the principal gathering place, and locals and tourists alike can be found enjoying the signature Italian Aperol Spritz in the square in the afternoon.
Among the most popular sites to visit in Apricale are the Romanesque Church of the Purification of the Virgin Mary and the Castello della Lucertola, which offers views of the surrounding countryside.
For those searching for traditional gastronomy, Monaco Life recommends the Apricus Osteria, located just before the village entrance on Via Roma. The terrace, perched atop a cliff, provides unobstructed mountain landscape views.
The food here is delicious and represents the true Ligurian spirit. The Vitello Tonnato is perfect for antipasti, as it is light yet rich in flavor, while the Trofie Ligure for a main is typically Ligurian and features the region’s essential ingredients of potatoes, carrots and beans. Be sure to leave room for dessert, especially if you fancy the homemade blueberry pie.
For a taster of what Apricale has on offer, watch the Monaco Life reel below:
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Photos by Monaco Life