The pirates are coming

The Shouts and the Defense of the Ligurian Riviera from the Corsairs

During the 16th century, the threat of corsairs, in particular the Barbary pirates, constituted a serious danger for the coastal areas of Liguria. To address this situation, the Genoese authorities issued numerous “Grides” (proclamations), which included detailed regulations on the signals to be used by coastal watchtowers to alert the population and prepare them for armed defense.

The Corsairs and the Attacks

One of the best-known episodes of this period was the incursion of the famous corsair Dragut into Rapallo and the surrounding countryside on 6 July 1549. The dangerous situation continued in the following years, with Barbary attacks in Monterosso, Manarola, Rapallo and Recco around 1560.

Ulug’ Alì’s attack on Lavagna

On 21-22 May 1564, Lavagna was attacked by Ulug’ Alì, known as “‘Occhiali”, another famous Mediterranean corsair, an ally of Dragut. With 25 ships, Ulug’ Alì blocked the coast from the tip of Sestri Levante to the mouth of the Entella river. The local population fled towards the mountains and along the Entella valley to escape the 1500 pirates who penetrated up to two miles inland, looting, burning houses and taking prisoners.

Reaction and Requests from Lavagnini

In response to the attack, the Lavagnini rightly asked for exemption from the payment of taxes and from the “competition” in the maintenance of the walls of Chiavari, accusing the latter of not having provided the hoped-for relief, despite the presence of a special body of militias located right in Chiavari for the defense of the Eastern Riviera, made up of 17 companies for a total of 3,372 men.

The Selected Companies

At the end of the 16th century, to better protect the inhabitants of the coastal areas from pirate raids, the “Compagnie de Scelti” were established, special bodies located in strategic points in Liguria. These special forces recruited men capable of carrying weapons, aged between 17 and 50.

Conclusion

The Gride and the defensive measures adopted by the Republic of Genoa represent an example of how local authorities responded to the pirate threat in the 16th century. Watchtowers, special forces and requests for tax exemptions reflect collective efforts to protect riparian communities and ensure their survival in times of grave danger.

Sources

Burzi P., “I Corsari saraceni nel Levante Ligure”, Rapallo, AGB, 2018

Trekking and cycling routes that may interest you

Itineraries of different durations and suitable for every taste and level of preparation, to discover the most beautiful and evocative places and panoramas of the Ligurian Tigullio.