What do the cities of Santorini, Positano, Rocamadour, Manarola, and Ronda all have in common? These European locations are unusual in that they have all been built on the edges or into the sides of cliffs, mountains, or hillsides, and one even sits on a volcano. Every one of these places is spectacular in beauty yet each has a uniqueness all its own. Here is out list of five incredible cliff cities to add to your bucket list.
Santorini, Greece
A volcanic eruption in 1600 B.C. created the setting for this majestic island, which overlooks the Aegean Sea. Its capital, Fira, is probably the best place to see the caldera of the volcano and is the hub of the island. The Prehistoric Museum of Thira is also located in Fira and offers a glimpse of ancient civilizations. For scenery alone, Oia has the look of a heavenly city glistening in the sunlight with its beautiful whitewashed walls contrasted with brightly colored blue roofs. Oia is also no doubt notable for its spectacular sunsets. The villages of Firostefani and Pyrgos both offer a look at traditional architecture and are well developed for tourism. For the history lover, the ancient Minoan site of Akrotiri is an attraction that should not be missed.
Positano, Italy
What was once one of Italy’s most exclusive places to relax and an inspiration to Picasso, Bernstein and Steinbeck, is to this day a spectacular place to visit. The city of Positano, Italy, which began as a fishing village, is built on the side of an almost vertical cliff, which is in itself a breathtaking sight. Although it is a popular tourist spot this beautiful city has not lost its charm. Swimming in the clear blue waters, shopping in the famous fashion boutiques, and viewing prehistoric remains at Grotta la Porta Cave are just a few of the things there are to do in this amazing town.
Rocamadour, France
The village of Rocamadour has a rich religious history and is probably best known as a famous destination for pilgrimages during medieval times. This very quaint village built right into the edge of a cliff was severely damaged during religious wars in the 1600’s but resurrected in the 19th century and has become quite a popular tourist attraction. The Grand Escalier, famous for its 200 steps; the Black Madonna and the Sword of Durandal in the Chapelle Notre Dame; and four remaining stone gates that are original to the village are some of the must see attractions.
Manarola, Cinque Terre Italy
Manarola is one of five villages located on the Cinque Terre, which is a rugged part of the coast on the Italian Riviera. Manarola is probably the quietest and oldest of the towns with a church cornerstone that dates back to the 1300’s. This picturesque town is actually built in a steep ravine that opens into the Ligurian sea. There are no beaches in Manarola but plenty of opportunities for swimming in its deep waters. At the very top of Manarola is the church with a bell tower that once served as a lookout tower for pirates.
Ronda, Spain
Hemingway once said, “Ronda is where you should go if you ever go to Spain on a honeymoon or if you ever bolt with anyone. The entire town and as far as you can see in any direction is romantic background…” It’s no wonder so many people have fallen in love with Ronda. This absolutely stunning cliffside city is built around a deep gorge with the Guadalevin River dividing it into two parts. Three majestic bridges add to the Romanesque features of this very popular city. Whether learning about the history of the city with its ancient Islamic gateways and renaissance mansions; visiting one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, complete with a museum; or simply basking in its beautiful natural scenery, this is one city you will never forget.
We highlighted Manarola Italy above, but all of Cinque Terre is amazing and well worth the visit. Here is another great photo of Manarola just after sunset.
Photo credit: David Kraft Photography | www.davidcraftphotography.com
It was difficult to narrow down the list to just 5 locations. Other amazing cliffside cities include Azenhas Do Mar, Sintra, Portugal; Positano, Italy; Gordes, Provence, Southern France; Cuenca, Spain and Omis, Croatia should be on your bucket list.
