The name probably derives from "Neapolis", but could also be of Roman origin, toponym "at sea". Noli is a charming fishing village, surrounded by green hills that encircle a small bay, on the Ligurian Riviera di Ponente at 15 km from the province's main city of Savona.
The main city centre is a combination of modernity and tradition. One of the few coastal towns to be characterized by the presence of local fishermen, that go out each evening on their small boats to return in the morning to one of most important and best equipped resorts of the region. Noli offers white sand beaches and a crystal clear sea, rich of marine species that make it ideal for diving fans.
A small harbor hosts only local fishing boats.
The foundation of the village dates back to times earlier than the Roman ages but during the Roman Empire it became a town and submitted the domination of the Byzantine Empire. In the VII century, the town was destroyed by the Lombards and then completely rebuilt nearer to the sea. Due to its favorable location and its participation in the First Crusade, Noli earned commercial and political privileges. In 1193 Savona granted the county of Noli to the Del Carretto Family and was proclaimed free maritime republic and became an ally of Genoa in the fighting against Pisa and Venice.
In the Middle Ages the center had the current size and shape. The slopes of Mount Ursino, overlooking Noli, were the seat of the castle, built here to protect the village with a semi-circular fortified towers, of which only ruins remain today.
MONUMENTS AND PLACES OF INTEREST
The Old Town, the Town Hall with the Civic Tower, dating from the late XIII century, the Palaces Pagliano and Salvarezza for architectural interest, Tower of the Papone gates of the XIII-XIV centuries, Tower dei Quattro Canti, Castello of Monte Ursino and the remains of its walls, the fortress of the Hermitage of Capo Noli.
The Church of San Paragonio, important example of Romanesque architecture.
The Cathedral of St Peter, that dates from the XIII century.
The Church of San Michele Arcangelo.
The Church of Santa Margherita.
The Church of St. Peter and the adjacent chapel in the district of Voze.
The plateau of Manie, which extends between Noli and Finale Ligure.
The archaeological site, found recently dating to the Neolithic, near the town district of Le Manie