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Maro Castello (Borgomaro)

Description

It is one of the seven districts of Borgomaro in the province of Imperia, located not far from this main centre. It consists of a small cluster of houses situated on a hill, full of vegetation. Today only a few traces remain of its famous stronghold " the Castrum Macri", built in the oldest part of the settlement, which was crucial for the defense of the entire territory. Anyhow, It is still possible to have an idea of just how strong the fortifications were and preserves an open lawn courtyard, where justice was administered. Striking is the steep and ancient mule track that leads to Borgomaro from which it is possible to admire amazing views over the countryside. Another road joins Borgomaro to Maro Castle and on the right side of this road branches off another mule track which connects with the church of Saints Nazario and Celso, which is one of the most important buildings in the area. During the early and difficult years of spreading Christianity it was thanks to the Saints Nazario and Celso and their work of evangelization that Christian worship widespread in this part of Liguria, due to the fact that most inhabitants were firmly pagan. Around the year 1000, in their honor, the residents built a magnificent church that was a reference point for the valley of Maro. The church covered the jurisdiction of fourteen villages. Maro Castello is well known, like the whole area, for the production and sale of precious olive oil.
From the XVII century the center of Borgomaro became more important than the feud Collemare de Castro Macri. This situation damaged from a social, as well as an economic, point of view the whole town which from this century onwards saw the domination of the Counts of Ventimiglia, the Angevin, the Lascariis di Tenda, the Savoy and the Doria.

Not to miss:
The remains of the fortress, one of the most important of the whole Onegliese inland, finally destroyed in the XVII century by the Republic of Genoa during the contrast with the Savoy, to conquest the town.
The main centre square which faces the church and the old wash house.
The majestic church entitled to Saints Nazario and Celso, who sailed up the river Empire, to the source of the Oneglia valley, to spread Christianity. Within one major nave and two aisles, divided by columns with capitals in black stone and a special multicolour display. Outside the building features highlighted sections of the original Romanesque walls and of particular interest is the beautiful black stone external portal with wonderful decorations.

Map

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