Bussana Vecchia Artist Village Travel Guide

Tucked away in the hills above San Remo, Italy sits a remarkable village with an extraordinary story. Bussana Vecchia was once abandoned after a devastating earthquake struck in 1887, claiming over 600 lives and leaving the medieval settlement in ruins. For decades, this ghost town remained empty until the 1960s when a group of artists discovered it and breathed new life into its crumbling walls.

Today, Bussana Vecchia exists as a thriving artistic community where craftspeople and creators from around the world have transformed the earthquake-damaged buildings into unique workshops, studios, and homes. Walking through its narrow stone streets, you’ll discover goldsmiths, designers, painters, and sculptors who have turned this once-forgotten place into a vibrant cultural center. The contrast between the partially restored buildings and the artistic innovations within them creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Italy.

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When you visit Bussana Vecchia, you can explore the charming craft shops, enjoy a coffee at one of the small cafes, or dine in restaurants nestled among the historic ruins. Each corner reveals something unexpected – an art installation emerging from ancient stonework, colorful murals on weathered walls, or artisans working in open studios. This unique village offers a glimpse into how creativity and resilience can transform tragedy into beauty.

History Of Bussana Vecchia Artist Village

Bussana Vecchia, nestled in the hills of Liguria in Northern Italy, has a remarkable story of destruction and rebirth. This medieval village, located just 6 km from the glamorous coastal city of San Remo in the Province of Imperia, was once a thriving community.

On February 23, 1887, tragedy struck when a devastating earthquake hit the region. The powerful tremor claimed 644 lives and left Bussana Vecchia in ruins. Following this disaster, authorities deemed the village unsafe and ordered all remaining residents to relocate to a new settlement downhill.

For decades, Bussana Vecchia stood abandoned, a true ghost town slowly being reclaimed by nature. The crumbling stone buildings and narrow cobblestone streets remained untouched, frozen in time.

In the 1960s, a remarkable transformation began. Artists from Italy and across Europe discovered this forgotten place and saw potential in its atmospheric ruins. These creative pioneers began rebuilding the damaged structures by hand, establishing a community that became known as the “International Artists’ Village.”

The artists worked with what remained, maintaining the authentic character of the original village. They created studios, galleries, and living spaces from the rubble, breathing new life into the ghost town.

Today, Bussana Vecchia thrives as an eclectic artistic haven. You can explore its winding passages, discover artisan workshops, and experience the unique atmosphere created by this blend of medieval architecture and artistic innovation.

What To See In Bussana Vecchia Artist Village

Wandering through Bussana Vecchia feels like stepping into a living art gallery. This medieval village near Sanremo has been transformed into a vibrant international artists colony after being abandoned following a devastating earthquake.

The ruined cathedral stands as the centerpiece of the village. Look closely at its walls and you’ll discover preserved frescos and beautifully carved cherubs that tell stories of the past. The contrast between destruction and beauty creates a haunting atmosphere you won’t soon forget.

Art studios and galleries are scattered throughout the narrow streets. You’ll find artists working in various mediums – from traditional painting and pottery to silk fabric printing and modern sculptures. Many welcome visitors to observe their creative process or purchase unique handmade souvenirs.

The village itself is an architectural marvel. Stone buildings with character-filled imperfections house eclectic galleries and cozy restaurants. Each structure has been lovingly restored by the artist community while maintaining its authentic charm.

As you explore, notice how art installations merge with the village landscape. These creative expressions bring new life to the ancient stones and create surprising moments of discovery around every corner.

Several charming restaurants dot the village, offering perfect spots to rest and enjoy local cuisine. These establishments often display works from resident artists, further blending art with everyday life.

The Italian Riviera landmarks surrounding Bussana Vecchia complement your visit with additional scenic beauty. The village serves as an artistic counterpoint to nearby beach resorts and the famous casino of Sanremo.

How To Get To Bussana Vecchia Artist Village

Getting to Bussana Vecchia from Sanremo is fairly straightforward, though you’ll need to plan your journey carefully. This hilltop artists’ village sits about 8 km from Sanremo in the Imperia province of Liguria.

By Public Transportation:

Take a bus from outside Sanremo station to Bussana (new town)
Use the frequent Sanremo-Taggia or Sanremo-Andora bus lines
The bus journey takes approximately 10 minutes
Bus fare is €1.50 per person for 90 minutes of consecutive travel

From Bussana town, you’ll need to make your way uphill to Bussana Vecchia. The narrow, winding roads to the artists’ village aren’t suitable for large tour buses.

By Taxi:
If you prefer more direct transportation, a taxi from Sanremo to Bussana Vecchia costs approximately €20 one-way.

By Minibus Tour:
Several tour operators offer minibus transfers from Sanremo directly to Bussana Vecchia. This option saves you the uphill walk from the new town and includes guided exploration of the artistic community.

By Car:
Driving gives you flexibility, but parking can be limited in the small village. Follow signs from Sanremo toward Taggia and watch for the Bussana Vecchia turnoff.

The journey is part of the experience, with scenic views of the Ligurian countryside as you approach this unique artistic haven.

Bussana Vecchia Artist Village Visitor Information

Bussana Vecchia sits just 8 km from San Remo in Italy’s beautiful Liguria region. This unique artist village, born from earthquake ruins, makes for a perfect day trip when exploring the Italian Riviera.

The best time to visit is during summer months when artists’ workshops are open and the village buzzes with creative energy. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the narrow streets and artistic spaces.

Getting to Bussana Vecchia is straightforward:

By car: Follow signs from San Remo (approximately 15 minutes)
By bus: Take the local bus from San Remo’s central station
By taxi: Available from nearby coastal towns

The village sits on a hilltop, so wear comfortable walking shoes for the uneven cobblestone streets. Many artists welcome visitors into their workshops where you can purchase unique handmade items as memorable souvenirs.

Several small cafés offer refreshments, though opening hours can be inconsistent. Consider bringing water, especially on hot summer days.

Entry to the village is free, but remember this is a living community. Respect residents by keeping noise levels down and asking before photographing their homes or studios.

Photography enthusiasts will love the contrast between ancient stone ruins and colorful artistic additions. The panoramic views of the Ligurian coastline provide stunning photo opportunities.

Where To Stay Near Bussana Vecchia Artist Village

When visiting Bussana Vecchia, you have several comfortable accommodation options nearby. The village itself doesn’t have hotels, but the surrounding area offers excellent choices.

Hotel Ideal stands out as a popular option in Bussana. Located in the heart of the village, it provides comfortable rooms and serves as a convenient base for exploring the artist community.

For those preferring to stay in Sanremo, Residence Dei Due Porti is just 2.8 miles from Bussana Vecchia. With positive guest reviews, it makes for a pleasant stay while remaining close to the artistic village.

Hotel Alexander is another well-rated option in Sanremo, situated only 2.7 miles from Bussana Vecchia. Its proximity makes day trips to the artist village easy and convenient.

If you prefer a home-like atmosphere, consider vacation rentals in the Italian Riviera. Many private houses and apartments are available near Bussana Vecchia, with some offering beautiful views of the coastline.

For travelers seeking a more rural experience, the Relais Del Maro is worth considering. Though slightly further at 11.2 miles away, it provides a tranquil setting to complement your artistic explorations.

Hotel Liliana in Diano Marina has earned numerous positive reviews and offers another quality option when visiting the region.

Things To Do Near Bussana Vecchia Artist Village

After exploring the artistic charm of Bussana Vecchia, you’ll find plenty of attractions nearby on the Italian Riviera. This stunning coastal region offers a perfect mix of culture, entertainment, and natural beauty.

Sanremo, just a short drive away, boasts several must-visit spots. The historic Ariston Theatre hosts the famous Sanremo Music Festival, while the elegant Casino offers gaming excitement in a Belle Époque setting.

Wander through La Pigna, Sanremo’s medieval old town with narrow winding streets and charming squares. The Sanctuary Madonna della Costa provides breathtaking views over the city and sea.

For history enthusiasts, Fort of Santa Tecla offers fascinating insights into the region’s past. Nature lovers should visit Villa Ormond with its beautiful botanical gardens featuring plants from around the world.

Food lovers won’t want to miss Mercato Annonario, Sanremo’s vibrant covered market. Here you can sample local specialties and fresh produce in an authentic atmosphere.

For active visitors, the area offers excellent biking trails along the coast. Laser Game Evolution provides indoor entertainment perfect for families or groups.

The unique Il Giardino Tra I Ruderi (Garden Among the Ruins) combines art and nature in a peaceful setting. This hidden gem showcases the region’s creative spirit beyond Bussana Vecchia itself.