Church of San Nicolò dell’Isola
San Nicolò: The Medieval Church That Withstands Time
San Nicolò is the only medieval church in Sestri Levante that still retains a layout very similar to its original form. Its story begins in 1145, when the Genoese, along with the construction of the castle and defensive walls, decided to build a place of worship on the upper part of the island, overlooking the Bay of Silence. The location was not chosen by chance: it combined the protection of the citadel with visibility over the sea, symbolizing strategic control and presence.
Dedication and Connection to Genoa
In 1148, the land for the church was assigned to the canons of Santo Stefano del Ponte, then the main center of the Sestri parish, with the condition that they relocate there. The move, however, never took place, and the municipality revoked the donation. Archbishop Siro Porcello then took the construction under his protection. The church was finally built around 1151 and dedicated to Saint Nicholas, whose veneration in the 12th century represented loyalty to Genoa and a symbolic connection to the roads and transport routes of the area.
Restoration and Preservation of Authenticity
Between 1909 and 1912, the building, which had been transformed in Baroque style in the 17th century, was restored to its original medieval appearance. The restoration, of significant historical interest, allowed the recovery of its simplicity and elegance: the three naves are supported by stone column shafts with slightly pointed arches and double arch rings, while the masonry, partially plastered inside and exposed outside, displays irregular stones that tell centuries of history.
Sources
Bacigalupo M.F., Fazzeri A., “San Nicolò dell’Isola. Sestri Levante-Genova”, Genova, 2014;
Brusco C., “S. Nicolò dell’Isola”, Sestri Levante 1966;
Pazzini Paglieri N., Paglieri R., “Chiese in Liguria”, Genova, Sagep Editrice, 1990
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