Pairola: Churches, History and Trails in the Valle Steria

Pairola between olive oil traditions and traces of culture

Pairola lies in the Valle Steria, which is known for its rich production of high-quality olive oil. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the village underwent significant development thanks to the prosperity generated by coral fishing and olive cultivation. Olive cultivation is therefore part of the valley’s historical character. In Pairola, rural regional identity and tangible traces of culture come together.

Church of Madonna della Neve and historical details

The Church of Madonna della Neve in Pairola was built in the 17th century. Its Baroque bell tower was designed by Filippo Marvaldi and bears the year 1754. The vault contains an 18th-century fresco attributed to Francesco Carrega. Typical archivolts and a floor plan that still reflects its medieval origins shape its appearance. Those who look closely at the architectural details will find several distinct layers of history in one place.

In Ciosi, a district of Pairola, there is a rock sarcophagus. Pairola also has a tomb carved into the rock dating from the 4th or 5th century AD. In 1714, Pairola became an independent parish. The church, sarcophagus and tomb represent different historical connections within the village.

Memorial sites from the Second World War

Pairola has air-raid shelters built of tuff stone, constructed by local residents for protection from bombing during the Second World War. The best-preserved air-raid shelter in Pairola is located on private property. Its origins point to the wartime experiences that also form part of the village’s history.

Hiking trails to the Church of San Matteo

A hiking route passes through Pairola and continues to the Church of San Matteo. The mule track between Pairola, the Church of San Matteo and the Valle Steria formed part of an important historic route across the Gulf of Diano. The route is therefore particularly appealing to visitors who would like to experience historical connections while walking.

The rural Church of San Matteo is one of the most characteristic religious buildings in the Val Steria. The route from Pairola to the church crosses an old bridge of Roman origin; its surviving structure dates from the Middle Ages. The hiking route also follows a rural path resembling an old mule track. The bridge, path and church give the route its distinctive historical character.

Planning your stay

For local and regional information, the tourist office of the municipality of San Bartolomeo al Mare provides information on attractions, mobility, culinary routes, and cultural and leisure activities. When choosing a hotel for a stay in Pairola, these themes can help determine the character of your trip: churches and architectural history, historic paths, or culinary topics related to the Valle Steria.

More destinations

Bussana, Colle San Bartolomeo, Ventimiglia, Bellissimi, Berzi, Monade Santa Lucia, Montalto Ligure, Diano San Pietro

For the higher-level travel overview: Imperia.