Bussana Vecchia
A medieval hillside village abandoned after an earthquake in 1887. Since the 1960s, artists have moved in and turned the ruins into studios and galleries, creating a distinctly bohemian atmosphere.
Bussana Vecchia is a medieval village on the hills east of Sanremo. A major earthquake in 1887 destroyed the village, and residents moved to New Bussana, newly built down the hill. The old village was abandoned for nearly 80 years. Starting in the 1960s, a group of artists from across Europe moved into the ruins and restored the houses as homes, studios, and galleries, forming a unique “international artists’ village.” Today you can stroll through its stone lanes and visit workshops for handmade pottery, painting, and jewelry. The old church, with its collapsed roof, still preserves its post-earthquake appearance. It is about 8 km from central Sanremo, reachable by car or by bus plus a hike uphill. Admission is free.
Opening hours
All day (studios approx. 10:00–18:00)
Nearby sights
- Taggia
- Villa Nobel
- Villa Ormond Gardens
- Riviera dei Fiori Coastal Cycle Path
- Teatro Ariston & Corso Matteotti
- Porto Vecchio & Forte di Santa Tecla
- Mercato Annonario di Sanremo
- La Pigna