Latest Updates
May 13, 2012
Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers past & present from the 3 moms that make up Save Vernazza, aiming to rebuild, restore & preserve this exceptional village for our children, our children’s children and onward.
The first run of our Benefit Art Auction was such a success we have decided to extend the sale for another 10 days. Select artworks are available for purchase until May 21. See the Benefit Art Auction page to view the works and link to the eBay auctions.
Also, we have recently published the Save Vernazza Forum page to allow for the exchange of information & discussions amongst our followers. Visit today, create a topic and/or post a reply!
And, as always, up to date photos, trail info, the status of businesses in town & trip planning information can be found at our Travel Advisor section.
May 2, 2012
The Benefit Art Auction
Artist Anna Russo is the motivational force behind the latest Save Vernazza fundraising initiative. In tribute to Anna’s husband Giuseppe “Pino” Gianonni, whose life was cut short when swept away by the flood of October 25, 2011, 22 local artists (including Anna & son Valentino of Valentino’s story) have generously donated 34 beautiful works of art.
The auction runs from May 1-11. All artworks can be viewed at the Benefit Art Auction page. Click on the photos to link to the eBay auctions.
Six months have passed and the transformation continues. Vernazza is moving from “emergency to prevention” mode as noted by Italian President Giorgio Napolitano during his recent visit, and the town is open for business. Albeit one store, bar, restaurant at a time. The “unofficial” start to the tourist season arrived the weekend before Easter and Vernazza has been welcoming more and more people every day since.
What’s new in & about Vernazza?
To see what Vernazza looks like now visit our Travel Advisor Photos & Videos page.
- Beach clean up has commenced and many meters of dirt have been removed from the beach.
- Bus service has been reinstated for routes to/from Vernazza, to/from the upper parking area and to/from the hamlets of San Bernadino & Fornacchi.
- Many reconstruction projects for storefronts along Via Roma have been delayed due to humidity within. The cold and moist winter weather had not allowed the walls to thoroughly dry since the flooding and now as the weather is warming and properties drying, projects can restart. The majority of shops in Vernazza are expected to open by June.
On April 25, 2012…
…we had the pleasure of spending the day with Rick Steves and showing him around town, the remarkable progress made in the past 6 months and the work still yet to do. As if we didn’t love Rick enough already for the way he feels about Vernazza, we couldn’t help but love him even more as he shed some tears for the old gal upon seeing her for the first time since October 25, 2011. We are incredibly grateful to Rick and his organization for their continued support and coverage of Vernazza’s recovery efforts. We look forward to Rick’s return this summer as he and crew come back to film a new Cinque Terre travel special. To read about Rick’s day in Vernazza see his “Report from the Cinque Terre“.
Rick Steves & Save Vernazza, April 25, 2012
Nashville on eBay
Long time and frequent visitor to Vernazza, Lisa McLaughlin, is also a concert merchandise manager for various popular music artists. Lisa reached out to the artists she supports and they answered her call by generously donating many autographed items and additional memorabilia to Save Vernazza.
Artists include Garth Brooks, Peter Frampton, Wynonna Judd, Trisha Yearwood, Lady Antebellum, Martina McBride, Joby Saad and Terri Clark. The auctions are ongoing from April to October, with a different artists/item featured every 10 days through October 2012.
Visit the Nashville auction page to view this week’s featured artist & item and link to the eBay auction.
What to do in Vernazza?
Get off the beaten path & discover hidden treasures. Download Save Vernazza’s trail map & suggested itineraries and find up to date information at our Trail Updates page.
And, read Michele Lilley’s blog about hiking trail 7 from Vernazza to San Bernadino & see photos of the hike at our newly created Save Vernazza Blog page.
For all your planning needs: Travel Advisor
Want to know if your favorite restaurant in Vernazza is open for business? Curious to see what shops will be open when in town? Looking for a place to stay in Vernazza? Go to Travel Advisor.
Rick Steves Tours & Save Vernazza
We are proud to announce that Save Vernazza has arranged to work with select Rick Steves tour groups this season in leading educational walking tours in Vernazza in the effort to promote sustainable tourism through educating visitors on Vernazza’s territory and cultural heritage.
The first such tour was hosted on April 15, 2012. Ironically, one of our February 2012 “With Love, From Vernazza” fundraising contest winners (the prize, a tour) was with the Rick Steves group and winner Karan was kind enough to share her time & tour with the group. Ruth Manfredi of Save Vernazza said about the tour ,“it is a special time to be visiting Vernazza. Our group was able to see first hand the devastation of the October 25 floods and hear Michele recount her narrow escape from her shop…it was a delight for us to share our enthusiasm for our cause and for Vernazza, especially to be in the company of such a lovely group of people who enjoyed the tour as much as we loved giving it.”
Read more from Ruth about what it feels like in Vernazza these days at our new Save Vernazza blog page.
S5T
Yana Pietras had been visiting the beautiful Cinque Terre villages for 12 years and after arriving in Florence for a semester abroad she understood there was much curiosity amongst the many international students regarding what happened on October 25th. Yana did her best to communicate news and discovered that many students wanted to help but didn’t know exactly how to do so.
With some help from Save Vernazza and a few friends, S5T (Students for Cinque Terre) was founded. S5T was founded to be an expression of student support for the villages in Cinque Terre that were devastated, striving to create awareness and to help rebuild and restore the Cinque Terre and preserve its territory for future generations.
S5T started off with the idea of selling buttons bearing the number “5” which represents the 5 towns in Cinque Terre. It is the hope of S5T that many more student oriented events and volunteering will bloom from the initial ideas.
Visit S5T on Facebook, and tell the student in your life about this new forum for students to share ideas about possible ways to get involved in rebuilding & restoring the Cinque Terre.
March 27, 2012
The President of Italy, Giorgio Napolitano, visited Vernazza on Wednesday, March 21. President Napolitano toured the town, had lunch and then spoke at a meeting held in the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia in Vernazza’s Piazza Marconi. The focus of the discussion was on moving from “emergency to prevention” with Napolitano stating the goals as two fold: first, applauding Vernazza’s mobilization efforts in the face of such adversity and second, to focus on the very important issue of preservation of the territory.
Napolitano was visibly moved by his time spent in Vernazza. He graciously thanked Vernazza’s citizens, Vernazza’s Mayor Vincenzo Resasco and the President of the Region of Liguria, Claudio Burlando, for the opportunity to see the destruction first hand. He concluded his speech by saying that the visit helped him to understand that “what for (the people of Vernazza) is great hope, for us is great responsibility.”
Vernazza prepared for President Napolitano’s visit by laying new stone to the center of Vernazza’s main street, Via Roma, as well as finishing the temporary asphalting along the sides of the street (the asphalting is temporary as next winter it will be dug up again to run Vernazza’s TV, telephone, electrical, etc. cables underground).
For a look at Vernazza as of March 24, 2012 please visit our Travel Advisor Photos & Videos page.
And, as always, please visit our Travel Advisor page for update to date information on business openings in Vernazza.
“From this angle, it’s like nothing ever happened,” was a statement overheard this past Saturday by a local sitting on a bench in Piazza Marconi. And to my surprise, I found it to be true. Parts of Vernazza are looking more “normal” every day and certain images are tributes to what one Save Vernazza donor refers to as her “okay-ness”.
Children are playing in the square and some older residents are coming home to live. Tourists are walking the streets, restaurants are opening and today the weekly street market returned. Vernazza is moving forward…and forward with a new focus.
As President Napolitano stated, preservation of the territory is of utmost importance for the future of Vernazza and Save Vernazza is proud to be aligned with such beliefs. This weekend, we prepare to move forward with a pilot project that will consist of clean up and restoration efforts to trail number 8 (from Vernazza to the Sanctuary Madonna di Reggio). In anticipation of a successful outing, we look forward to future opportunities involving volunteers as we work to Rebuild, Restore and Preserve Vernazza.
“If we are to go forward, we must go back and rediscover those precious values…” Martin Luther King Jr.
March 9, 2012
Stepping onto the terrace, I became mesmerized by sights and smells. After a long, seemingly endless winter, I was once again in Vernazza, an exceptional place where even after the events of last October, much remains the same: the church bells and rhythmic waves; the green of the hillsides; the blue of the water and the pastels of the buildings contrasting and yet complimenting one another.
I came to Vernazza this morning for a public meeting, hosted by Mayor Vincenzo Resasco, detailing Vernazza’s strategic plan for reconstruction, updates on the progress made thus far and how Vernazza is preparing itself for the reopening of its tourist season.
An announcement made at the meeting, and one that Save Vernazza is pleased to have helped facilitate, is that architect and urbanist Richard Rogers will be providing his expertise in the rebuilding of Vernazza by overseeing Vernazza’s “urban regeneration” project. Lord Rogers is the 2007 Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate, recipient of the 1985 RIBA Gold Medal and the 2006 Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement (La Biennale di Venezia). Over the course of his successful career, Richard Rogers has made a major impact on contemporary architecture, with key projects such as the Centre Pompidou in Paris, Lloyd’s of London and Terminal 4 in Madrid Barajas Airport.
On a personal note, Richard has a great affection for Vernazza and has been a frequent visitor for years. He believes that the reconstruction should be elegant in its simplicity in order to preserve Vernazza’s unique character as an authentic small town for both inhabitants as well as tourists. We are honored and excited to have the guidance of such a well known and respected professional and Vernazza will most certainly benefit from Mr. Rogers’ involvement.
Other topics of discussion at the meeting included the status of emergency projects currently underway:
- Sewage: completed
- Canal: includes roadwork as well as enlargement of the canal itself. This enlargement is necessary for what has been referred to as “200 year security” (enabling the canal to withstand future storms such as that of October 25, estimated to occur once every 200 years)
- Landslides: project focuses on securing the slides that directly impact the canal and reconstruction of the canal banks and bed in such a way as to decrease the velocity of the water.
- Water: continuing on schedule, approximately 90% of all homes with running water
- Aqueduct: continuing on schedule
- Electricity: continuing on schedule
- Via Roma: This week, temporary asphalting of Vernazza’s main street Via Roma will be underway. Next winter the road will be dug up once again and all of Vernazza’s electrical, telephone, TV, etc. cables will be run underground. Final work along Via Roma is expected to be completed in early 2013.
- Gas: By the end of June 2012, a temporary methane gas containment system will be in place to provide methane gas to Vernazza. Over the next 2 years, permanent pipeline will be laid to transport methane gas to Vernazza from the village of Volastra, a project costing approximately 2.2 million Euro and funded by the Protezione Civile.
For up to date images of the reconstruction effort visit our Travel Advisor Photos & Videos page. And, for information on the status of commercial activities, please visit Travel Advisor Home Page.
Additionally, the town is organizing for the beach & harbor clean-up effort in which a group of volunteer scuba divers will assist and dredging of the sea bottom will be necessary. The estimated cost for this effort is 700,000 – 800,000 Euro, approximately 150,000 Euro already pledged by STL (Sistema Turistico Locale) of Liguria.
Also included in Vernazza’s strategic plan was a focus on sustainable environmental and social/economic development, specifically with regards to renewable energy, garbage & recycling, sewage, sustainable tourism and education & promotion of Vernazza’s territory.
The importance of safeguarding Vernazza’s territory was discussed at length and recognized as the key to sustainability for Vernazza, both environmentally as well as economically. Going forward it will be of great importance to Vernazza to attract the kind of travelers who create a relationship with the town, make a connection with the place, its people and its territory, thus understanding and respecting its culture, environment and heritage.
In keeping with this discussion and in alignment with our projects, Save Vernazza will be meeting next week with Vernazza’s key technical advisers to map out the best way to collaborate on and move forward with projects that educate through programs and volunteer efforts, assist in the rebuild of trails and focus on the reconstruction of the “muretti a secco”, the dry stone walls that integral to the terracing of Vernazza’s hillsides. Details of and updates on Save Vernazza’s projects can be found at our Rebuild, Restore, Preserve Vernazza page.
At the end of the meeting, I was asked to speak to the audience of residents about Save Vernazza. But in addition to speaking about the details of our projects, I felt the desire to also express my deep appreciation of and respect for Vernazza, its people and territory. This brought about within me an overwhelming mix of emotions by thinking of the October tragedy and the town’s courageous work to rebuild. I knew I had to do my best to keep from becoming emotional, so I focused on the faces in front of me. The faces that for the last 4 months have been dirtied with mud, stained with tears, and lined with smiles and laughter. The faces now giving me the strength to keep it together. The faces forever filled with determination and hope.
The weather is warming and the coming of spring gives way to a new hope. Less than 5 months ago the unimaginable happened, and no one at that time would have predicted all that has been accomplished in the time that has passed since. And yet, even after the unimaginable, much remains the same. The waves, the bells, the blues, the greens…the constants that made Vernazza recognizable even when she wasn’t..
Now as we slowly return to normal, the “newness” of Vernazza brought about by that tragic day is impossible to overlook. It is a blinding reminder that change is vital to Vernazza’s future.
Vernazza's "New Beach"
Vernazza's "New Hillsides"
In order to sustain the uniqueness and beauty that is Vernazza, tourism and territory must go hand in hand, for there is no future for one without the other. Vernazza now stands at a crossroads and years from now we hope to look back and take pride in the example she has set for the rest of the world, one of harmony and balance created by the coming together of the two in such a way one cannot imagine it ever being otherwise.
Ruth Manfredi, Save Vernazza
February 11, 2012
Travel Advisor: Visiting Vernazza 2012
Save Vernazza has created a new Travel Advisor page to reflect the current state of affairs regarding Vernazza’s commercial activities, in the effort to best prepare the Vernazza bound traveler. Additionally, a corresponding page of current photos & videos of Vernazza has been created at Travel Advisor Photos & Videos. Both pages will be maintained and updated regularly as information is received so please keep checking back.
Vernazza needs your patronage more than ever this year, and the people of Vernazza are looking forward to welcoming visitors. We ask for your patience and understanding as we work toward rebuilding this exceptional village.
Vernazza will one day shine again as the crown jewel of the Cinque Terre, but we are still on the long and costly road to recovery. We have done much in the past 3.5 months, yet there is still much to do. Your donation can make a difference.
Donate Through PayPal
Thank you for your continued support in the campaign to Save Vernazza!
January 24, 2012
“You don’t get harmony when everybody sings the same note.” Doug Floyd
Vernazza has recently been described as a town where “the stores are closed and wounds still open,” where “the emergency is over, but the rebirth is far off.” According to the January 12, 2012 article by local newspaper La Nazione, “the ‘emergency’ is over, but not in the mind of some Vernazzesi. The President of the Region of Liguria, Claudio Burlando, has declared the town open to visitors. And Vernazza’s Mayor Vincenzo Resasco has stated that Trenitalia (the train system) has received the official orders to allow any and all persons access to the village.
According to La Nazione “some in town are perplexed by these decisions and statements.” One Vernazza resident notes, while walking down Via Roma, that the excavations to repair the sewage system have just begun. The repairs are expected to take two months, but some wonder why the town is allowing people to visit now “in these conditions.” Questions and statements such as these are being born from the harsh reality that Vernazza is still a work in progress. Vernazza has one storefront open (the pharmacy), one restaurant, and one coffee bar. Work to secure the canal is ongoing. Today, Via Roma is a shell of its former self and one is unable to tell the difference between what was, prior to October 25, 2011, a storefront versus an old wine cellar. Work permits are being submitted and approved to continue the reconstruction to storefronts along Via Roma and we are cautiously optimistic that the majority of commercial activities will be operable by the spring.
To read the entire La Nazione article, as translated to English, as well as the original Italian version click here.
For photos and videos of how Vernazza looks as of January 21, 2012 click here.
With various articles in circulation claiming Vernazza’s state of emergency to be over, Save Vernazza posed the question to Mayor Vincenzo Resasco in our meeting with Town Council members last week. The official statement from Mayor Resasco is that Vernazza is in fact “still under a state of emergency and continues to be under evacuation orders.” Yes, the emergency crews (the national guard and fire department) have pulled out but the urgent projects are now contracted to private firms. In our meeting, we discussed and gathered details regarding the projects involved in repairing the 108 million Euro worth of damages caused to Vernazza on October 25, 2011, when torrential rains and over 100 mudslides left the town buried in over 4 meters / 13+ feet of mud and debris.
Despite the difficulties of its current situation, the town of Vernazza is proceeding to contract new projects worth approximately 9.3 million Euro to secure the town, according to a “Work in Progress” document recently released by the town. These projects funded by money received from the Region of Liguria, in a few months time are expected to result in the lifting of the evacuation orders that will allow Vernazza’s residents to return home as well as place Vernazza in a better state to welcome visitors. Additionally, funds received by the Cinque Terre National Park will go toward the repair of hiking trail #2, from Monterosso to Vernazza, Vernazza to Corniglia.
For additional project details and to read the entire “Vernazza: Work in Progress” document click here.
Save Vernazza is now moving forward to evaluate and fund projects that focus on both the immediate and long term needs of Vernazza’s residents and visitors. Some examples include:
Within the next weeks we will be adding to our website further details of the “Save Vernazza” projects, their estimated costs, time-lines and any applicable fundraising initiatives. Please stay tuned and check back to our
Rebuild Vernazza page for that information.
Some events over the past weeks include:
European Union Commissioner, Johannes Hahn, along with the President of the Region of Liguria, Claudio Burlando, visit Vernazza.
Having trouble viewing the video?
Click here.
The communities of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Groppo & Volastra donate car to Vernazza.
On January 14, 2012, the communities of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Groppo & Volastra donated a new 4×4 extra cab pick-up truck to the community of Vernazza.
Fiat donates 4 new cars to Vernazza for Vernazza’s “car sharing” program.
On January 20, 2012, Fiat Group Automobiles donated 4 new 4×4 Fiats to Vernazza for use in their “car sharing program”. The majority of Vernazza’s residents lost their vehicles in the flooding and mudslides of October 25, 2011.
Vernazza’s First Store Re-Opens
On January 21, 2012 Vernazza’s Farmacia (Pharmacy) reopens. By Italian law, the pharmacy is allowed no more than 90 days closure and thereafter the proprietor loses his/her license. Therefore, the work to restore the pharmacy has been completed, The walls may be empty and there is only a table, chair & pharmacist, but the pharmacy in Vernazza is operable once again.
Vernazza’s First Restaurant Re-Opens
On January 23, 2012 the restaurant Belforte re-opens. The Belforte is above water level, along Vernazza’s waterfront, and therefore suffered no damages (other than to services) on October 25, 2011. Since the departure a few weeks back of the military cooks that provided meals for crews and volunteers, Vernazza has been without such a service. Finally, workers have a place to go for a hot meal and break from the tiresome workdays.
This past Saturday morning when walking down Vernazza’s main street, a train pulled up and some tourists got off. As they descended the stairs it was evident by their expressions they had no knowledge of what happened in Vernazza on October 25, 2011. With no information center available, we decided to create one ourselves. Some printed materials, an old bookshelf, a piece of plywood and a curtain later we established the first Save Vernazza Information Center. Albeit rough and hastily put together, it fit with the ambiance of Vernazza these days.
Later in the afternoon a group of American students studying abroad for a semester at the University of Florence arrived. They asked, I explained, I cried, they cried. Here is an email from one of them we received the day after:
I am currently in Firenze as an Interior Design Study Abroad Student from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA. On January 21st 2012, a group of fellow students and I planned our first trip to Cinque Terre without any knowledge of the recent disaster that swept through the town of Vernazza.
As we traveled, we learned more about the tragic event but nothing prepared us for the sight we saw as we stepped off the train in Vernazza. I immediately was overwhelmed with sadness for those involved and lost, yet felt the warmth and beauty the town still radiated. In that moment I fell in love with Vernazza.
As we were waiting for our next train, a Save Vernazza table was set up and the woman began to share the stories of Oct 25th, those of which I will never forget. Again, in that moment I was forever changed and my journey to Italy had a deeper meaning.
I would be honored to give my services in any way that I can. You all are in my prayers, God Bless.
Jordan
The stories of what happened in Vernazza on October 25, 2011 are just a part of what make people care and want to be involved in the campaign to Save Vernazza. Jordan and his friends fell in love with her for the beauty she still radiates today, despite her “open wounds”. For those unable to come see her, we will continue to keep you updated on her recovery. For those planning a trip to the area this year, keep the Cinque Terre in your travel plans.
When inquiring for accommodations in Vernazza, you may find room owners slow to respond and/or hesitant to confirm reservations at this time. Be willing to wait. Take the chance on her. But, be prepared to see her changed by the events of October 25, 2011.
A very well traveled and wise man once said about Vernazza that she is “exceptional…(and) deserves a special dignity.” Rick Steves
With your help we can rebuild this exceptional village.
“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” Henry Ford”
Coming Together, Keeping Together, Working Together We Can Make A Difference.
January 9, 2012
“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” John Muir
The other day I hiked the Number 2 trail from Vernazza to Corniglia, following the sentiment from our November 21, 2011 update to “see the aftermath with my own eyes….the time had come to face (this) beast”. As I came upon one of the many landslides causing great destruction to this beautiful footpath, I was forced to make a decision that symbolizes where we are and how we will move forward with the campaign to Save Vernazza.
I could assess the situation, plan my course wisely and move forward with confidence. Or, I could allow myself to be intimidated by the enormity of the destruction, turn around and give up on the conquest. “Turn your face to the sun and the shadows fall behind you.” (Maori Proverb). I chose to turn my face to the sun. I arrived in Corniglia 2 hours later. Click here to see photos & videos of the hike.
We at Save Vernazza believe in our mission to rebuild, restore and preserve the town of Vernazza. We know it is possible and we have your support. Many believe that Vernazza will be “even more beautiful than before.”
The town of Vernazza plans to open its doors to visitors late spring of 2012. Work to stabilize the hillsides and secure the canal is underway and over the next months repairs to utilities and commercial activities along Via Roma will be ongoing. She may not be how you remember her to be, you may find her a bit “rough around the edges”, for the road to complete restoration will be long and costly. But she will be there to welcome you. Keep the Cinque Terre (Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso) in your travel plans and visit the region this year to see how far we’ve come. Finally, please continue to show your support in the campaign to Save Vernazza.
Within the next week Save Vernazza will meet with Vernazza’s Mayor Resasco and the Town Council to discuss specific projects, their budgets and timelines. Additionally, we will outline opportunities for volunteers, campaign drives and other initiatives to bring attention, resources and donations to the Save Vernazza campaign. Please stayed tuned for announcements within our forthcoming updates and changes to our “Rebuild Vernazza” project page, including specific information on how your donations will be used in the efforts to rebuild, restore and preserve Vernazza.
Some of the past week’s highlights include:
For additional photos and to view the three-part series of short films click here.
For more photos and videos of the “arcobaleno” event click here.
With each crew that pulls out, each truckload of dirt that passes by and each brick unearthed, Vernazza becomes familiar yet again. With every paint stroke and pressure hose we catch a glimpse of her former beauty. She will no doubt reclaim her place in this world as the “jewel of the Cinque Terre” and inevitably along the way will be painful reminders of that fateful day.
December 31, 2011
“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and it first chapter is New Year’s Day.” Edith Lovejoy Pierce
Today we bid farewell to a year that many Vernazzese may prefer to forget. But if we forget, we learn nothing. Therefore, we will move forward into this new year and take the lessons from the past into our future.
Spending time in Vernazza these days is both joyful and painful. Days are filled with highs and lows. On December 23, Vernazza laid to rest Pina, Sauro and Pina, the three residents killed in the flooding and mudslides of October 25, 2011. In the afternoon, volunteers from town and Save Vernazza organized a Christmas celebration for the children of Vernazza. Santa Claus paid a visit, with presents in tow and a gang of clowns to entertain with games, balloon animals and face paints. Cards and small gifts were sent from children of the Condit Elementary School of Bellaire, Texas and the West University Methodist Church of Houston, Texas, to Vernazza’s young to make for a brighter Christmas.
The children, as children tend to be, were mostly unphased by their surroundings, content to be together again at home. Though one conversation overheard amongst them occurred as they gazed toward Vernazza’s beach, their former warm weather playground where they spend days with nets in hand catching fish and crabs, that playground now a deposit for mud and debris. “Are the crabs still alive underneath all that?” they wondered…We wonder that ourselves at times…
On Christmas Eve, a dinner was hosted in the square under the tent. “I nostri fratelli” (our brothers) from Riomaggiore and Manarola were invited and graciously thanked for their continual support of the people of Vernazza and their ongoing efforts to assist in the recovery.
Christmas day itself was eerily quiet in Vernazza with few people in town. However, even on Christmas, the hum of the diggers could be heard as work on the canal will continue until it no longer poses a threat to Vernazza.
In the afternoon of December 28th, Mayor Vincenzo Resasco called a town meeting in the square for Vernazza’s residents, to discuss the state of affairs and provide information on projects planned for the forthcoming weeks. The details of that meeting are as follows:
The money already made available by the regional and provincial governments to Vernazza has been allocated to the following projects:
In mid-January, the following private works projects will commence:
Additionally, during the excavations over the next weeks, gas pipelines will be extended and sites will be appraised for the installation of the town gas tank. At the same time, an evaluation of the long term use of methane gas as an alternate fuel source will be underway. Also being considered by Regional representatives and engineers is the feasibility to install solar panels for the local energy supply and/or the use of biomass and hydraulic power.
In the meantime, while waiting for finances from the National Park, projects are being prepared to restore trails #2, 8, 6D, 7A and 7B.
After the town meeting a “stoccafisso” dinner was held in the square under the tent (stoccafisso is a typical Ligurian dish of dried cod that is soaked and then prepared with olives, potatoes, swiss chard, olive oil and pine nuts). It was a night of good food and great company, wrapping up with Father Don Giovanni, accompanied by many in attendance, singing into the night. For a brief time, many were able to forget the reality that existed outside the tent.
Unfortunately, this reality will be all the more evident on January 7 when the Navy emergency camp kitchen and crew pull out of Vernazza. Gone will be the days of lunches and dinners together under the tent.
Instead, the few that will remain in Vernazza will have to fend for themselves. However, the one restaurant in the square that sustained very little damage “Taverna di Capitano” will look to re-open soon to provide not only hot meals for those in need but a warm place to get together after a long day’s work.
Tonight the people of Vernazza will toast a farewell to 2011. Mayor Resasco posted the follow notice around town yesterday: “2011 is coming to a finish and we approach a new year. Even though we are in a moment of difficulty we will celebrate together under the tent. After many sad days and hard work we will enjoy a night of joy and happiness. We take this opportunity to wish a happy new year to all Vernazza’s citizens, all who have come to help and continue to do so, and all that love Vernazza…we know there are many. We wish you all a Happy 2012.”
Save Vernazza would like to take this opportunity to thank our donors,
friends and followers and wish you all the very best for 2012. We would like to share with you that as of December 25, 2011 we have surpassed €100,000 in donations received. Although it is merely a “drop in the bucket” toward the over €100 million required to rebuild Vernazza, we are very proud of this accomplishment and have you all to thank. We look forward to continuing our efforts in 2012, working together to make a difference…to bring the life and beauty back to our Vernazza. Tanti Auguri e Buon Anno Nuovo!
“Never measure the height of a mountain, until you have reached the top. Then you will see how low it was.” Dag Hammarskjold
December 22, 2011
Tomorrow Vernazza will lay to rest its 3 residents that were killed in the flooding and mudslides that occurred on October 25, 2011. The funeral for Giuseppe “Pino” Giannoni, 60 years old (of Valentino’s Story), Sauro Picconcelli, 55 years old, and Giuseppina “Pina” Carro, 81 years old, will take place at 11,00 in Vernazza’s Church of Santa Margherita d’Antioch.
According to French law, as the 3 deceased washed ashore in early November near St. Tropez, France, a DNA analysis was required to officially identify and release the bodies. Now Pino, Sauro and Pina can come home. And, the people of Vernazza can come together tomorrow to mourn the loss of their fellow Vernazzese.
Riposate nella pace i nostri cari amici. Siete sempre nei nostri cuori.
Tomorrow will be the day that many Vernazzese of the older generations will see the destruction for the first time. Their desire to return sooner, if only for a visit, has been great although not feasible with state of the town and evacuation orders Vernazza has been under since October 25th.
Few have lived anywhere other than Vernazza. Most were born in their homes. On October 26 and the days following the disaster, the elderly were of the first of Vernazza’s residents to be evacuated. Some were brought down on ladders from 2nd and 3rd story windows, carried on the backs of emergency crews, down the land filled streets on stretchers to the boats awaiting them. There were those that went willingly, others reluctantly, stating they would rather die in Vernazza than leave their home. Many had relatives elsewhere to go to. Others have been placed in nursing homes, and those in ill health are said to be ‘holding on’ for their desire to return home and be amongst their people in their final hours.
They were bombed and sent running to the hillsides to avoid the German army. They survived a war. And yet, many older Vernazzese describe the events of October 25, 2011 as they worst they’ve live through to date.
“A man’s age is something impressive, it sums up his life: maturity reached slowly and against many obstacles, illnesses cured, grieves and despairs overcome, and unconscious risks taken: maturity formed through so many desires, hopes, regrets, forgotten things, loves. A man’s age represents a fine cargo of experiences and memories”. Antione de Saint-Exupéry, Wartime Writings (as translated from French).
Happy to share their stories, whether or not you understood their language, seen walking arm in arm on the way to mass, doting on the children of residents and visitors alike, Vernazza’s elderly are the window to Vernazza’s past. They gave their hearts and souls to make Vernazza what it is today. They were the fine touches to the magnificent home that was Vernazza. And today Vernazza is all the more silent without them.
“When eating a fruit, think of the person who planted the tree” Vietnamese Proverb
The dying language that is their dialect is heard less on the streets now. For the younger generations, those strange words and phrases that don’t quite sound Italian, are used mostly when speaking with their elders. Many of the children of Vernazza do not even understand the dialect. In honor of these people and those that came before them, included below is a Vernazza dialect song (with the chorus translated to English).
Quàndu mé svéggiu â matìn, quàndu sciuìssce ‘n ti ciàn
guàrdu lazzù ‘r Begaìn, guàrdu ‘n ti scòggi i gabbiàn
e sètte sbìri chi gìan, pâ chi se bullàn in mâ
quéllu veccéttu ‘n ser mö, cu l’è lì férmu a pescâ
Bèllu ‘r mé vècciu paìse
te pòrtu sémpre cùn mé
fìnna se gîu tüttu ‘r mùndu
mé rèstu sémpre cùn tè
bèllu ‘r mé vècciu paìse
te séntu dréntu de mé
(Beautiful are you my old village
I will take you always with me
Even if I travel all the world
You remain always with me
Beautiful are you my old village
I feel you within me)
Pénsu a quand’éa piccenìn, trà argàn, tàne e barchétte
zugàmu cû remuìn, o ‘ndàmu a dâ e scignuétte
ma sé dê vôte a matìn, i scaregàvan l’aéna
sùrve quâ tòa piccenìn, g’andàmu a fâ l’artaléna
Bèllu ‘r mé vècciu paìse
tê sémpre dréntu de mé
pòssu giâ tüttu ‘r mùndu
ma pàrlu sémpre de té
bèllu ‘r mé vècciu paìse
te pòrtu sémpre cùn mé
(Beautiful are you my old village
You are always within of me
I can travel all the world
But speak always of you
Beautiful are you my old village
You remain always with me)
For more information on Vernazza’s “Ê PAÒLLE DÎ VÈCCI”, “Le Parole dei Vecchi” (words of the old) including dictionary with sound bites, compilation of music and more please visit www.dialettu.it
“Where we love is home – home that our feet may leave, but not our hearts.” Oliver Wendell Holmes
Help make Vernazza safe again to welcome her residents and visitors.
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December 16, 2011
“Better to light one small candle than to curse the darkness.” Chinese proverb
Andrea Leonardini of Vernazza and Linda Mazzi of La Spezia wed this past Saturday in the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, in Piazza Marconi, Vernazza. The decorations were minimal and the church crowded with hundreds of boxes of food and supplies, but it was a day of happiness in an otherwise somber Vernazza.
In spite of the fact that their village was devastated on October 25, 2011, Andrea and Linda did not deter from their plans to marry in Vernazza. A friend of Andrea’s said, “This marriage is significant in providing a well needed moment of happiness during these tough times and is also symbolic of Vernazza’s commitment to moving forward.” 
Since the events of October 25, Andrea has been working with his fellow citizens in freeing the town from tons of mud and debris. On Saturday he took a moment of pause and invited his his friends and family to celebrate in the square, the mountain of debris in the background that still occupies the beach did not detract from the day’s festivities.
Auguri a Andrea e Linda. Vi auguriamo una vita insieme con tanta felicità.
While it brings us joy to see the beauty slowly returning to Vernazza and progress being made in the long road to recovery, we must keep in mind that the journey will lead us uphill. Until made safe, Vernazza’s residents and visitors will be unable to return. There is much work to be done to ensure this safety. Yes, Vernazza’s streets are cleaner. Her wounds becoming less visible every day. But we must not concentrate only on her “face” for she is in dire need of rehabilitation elsewhere. Immediate funds are needed and your contributions critical. Vernazza is a place people dream about and together we can keep this dream alive. Your donation will go directly to our efforts to rebuild this magical village, to ensure that you, your family and friends, along with Vernazza’s 500+ evacuated residents, will be able to return to enjoy Vernazza one day. Working together we can make a difference.
December 14, 2011
It has been a busy week with much to update you on.
On Wednesday, December 7, Save Vernazza founders Michele Lilley, Ruth Manfredi and Michele Sherman spent the day in Vernazza with a CBS reporter. Interviews with Save Vernazza, Mayor Vincenzo Resasco and Valentino Giannoni were had, as well as a ride up into the hillsides with CBS to view the damage done by 100+ landslides of October 25.
On Thursday, December 8, Save Vernazza was proud to celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in Vernazza with the Town Council and its citizens. Ruth, Michele and Michele brought their own children to share in this “first homecoming” with friends. For the occasion, Save Vernazza made T-shirts for all of the town’s children with the message “I miracoli si possono fare” (miracles can happen).
Our dear friend Valentino captured the spirit of the day: “The vision of the children running from the train station down the street was a symbolic moment of healing for Vernazza. It was like the main artery of the village receiving fresh oxygen and energy again through the pure love of the children.”
The idea to celebrate December 8 with the whole town came to Mayor Resasco on the day after the floods of October 25. He promised that the townspeople of Vernazza would celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in Vernazza, free of mud. To the people who were forced to walk through Vernazza at the height of the second story windows, over 4 meters / 13+ feet of mud and debris, it seemed that only a miracle would make it possible. In fact, the following day, the townspeople were evacuated.
On the morning of December 8, with the “asado” barbeque slowly cooking over the coals in Piazza Marconi, the trains arrived from La Spezia and Levanto, filled with families, elderly couples and children: Vernazzesi. As the T-shirts were passed out to all the children, one felt the electricity in the air. The voices of the children canceled the silence of Vernazza’s streets and the volunteers, , in their orange work suits or yellow overalls, lining both sides of the street below the train station, began a long and touching applause as the children & townspeople came down the stairs. For many, this was their first time back. The children immediately felt at home, running and playing, even though Vernazza still showed its visible wounds. The elderly, many of whom had never previously lived anywhere else, walked around with tear-filled eyes, marveling at how much had been accomplished in such a short time. The volunteers were filled with pride at their role in giving so much joy to this community. The day was filled with friendship, hugging, laughter, tears and sharing stories. Talk of hope filled the air, as people began to envision a renewed Vernazza.
The core of volunteers who never leave Vernazza were able to share one day of “normalcy” with the sounds of children running through the piazza and the camaraderie of the townspeople. As late as December 7, the volunteers spent the day washing the cobblestone streets so that the children could return. They worked at hanging new plywood temporary “doors” to give some semblance of normalcy to the gaping holes that represent the shops and restaurants of Vernazza. All of this work so that Vernazza could again receive her people.
On December 8th people talked fondly about how Vernazza was and began to dream about how it will be again. On behalf of the community of Vernazza we thank you for the donations and messages that have been arriving to Save Vernazza from all of our supporters around the world. With your continued generosity, we feel hopeful that we will meet our goals to rebuild Vernazza.
Stayed tuned for our next update where we will report on a wedding of one of Vernazza’s own, that occurred in town on December 10, 2011.
December 12, 2011
Visit Save Vernazza’s You Tube Channel to see a series of videos from December 9, 2011. A walk up the trail to Sanctuary Madonna di Reggio and down the road into Vernazza, showing the numerous landslides and destruction done to the mountainsides and roads as a result of October 25, 2011.
The journey starts and ends with the two videos below. Stay tuned for more updates about Save Vernazza’s progress over the past week.
December 3, 2011
The only thing ‘normal’ in Vernazza these days is the train schedule. She is a town without her people. Even more so now, as this afternoon all (volunteers and emergency crews) were evacuated due to heavy rains.
Imagine Vernazza without a single soul in it. If she were a person I’d say she’s lonely. Feeling abandoned. And I often think of her this way. Like a living being. She has a life, a soul, a vibrance, a presence like no other place I’ve been. I find myself feeling sorry for her a lot of the time. Is this strange? Somehow I don’t think I’m alone in my feelings.
She has the company of the cats and ducks now. Has she wondered where we all went and why? Would she have wanted us to leave to keep us out of harm? Does she know how much we all want to return to her and help return her to what she once was? Does she know how loved she is?
She is without her family and will continue to be until she is well enough to accept us back. Yes, the weather will let up and the volunteers and emergency crews will return. But where are the children that ran her streets? The men and women who sat her benches, walked her passageways, took her photos and marveled in her beauty? When will they return to her?
The way back to her is complicated and costly. Would she understand if we couldn’t afford to fix her? Would she be forgiving if we weren’t able to return?
If I could talk to her I would tell her we are doing our best. I would tell her there are people all around the world thinking of her, wishing her well and supporting her recovery. I would tell her that she is loved and that we will not give up on her.
“If we are facing in the right direction, all we have to do is keep on walking.” Buddist saying
The estimated cost to repair Vernazza to the point where she will be safe enough for her residents to return is 50 million euro. Vernazza is still without gas and drinking water, continually under a state of emergency and as of today evacuated of volunteers and emergency crews. The situation is bleak but not impossible. Together we can make her healthy again. Together we make the difference.
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This post is also available in: Italian
Anita Bingaman
November 6, 2011
Is there any way of contacting people of Vernazza? On October 22, 2011, a beautiful sun filled day, my husband and I visited Vernazza and had a wonderful lunch at a trattoria near the train station. Trattoria Da Sandro, Via Roma , 60. I would like to know how they are. The owner was from Genova and was very friendly. Is there any way of contacting her? Will she be able to receive mail? Thanks for you help. Anita Bingaman, Seattle, Wa USA
Karen
November 24, 2011
This message is for all the families of Vernazza to say I will be back to visit and how sorry I am to hear of the disaster. I stayed at Anna Maria’s hope she and her mother are ok. They treated us as family. I visited with my son Troy his first visit to Europe in 2010. Vernazza was his favourite place.
We do hope we can help in some way.
From Canada
Katherine
November 25, 2011
Hi Anita, my husband is from Vernazza (we currently live in Seattle). We’ve been in touch with Alessandro and his wife from Trattoria di Sandro — and they are safe; they were closed that day but Ale happened to be working inside the restaurant that day with their son and they got out safely.
Koos & Bonnie
November 6, 2011
Hi Michelle,
Great you’ve got the website up and running, well done!We’ll make a good donation as soon as you have the transfer details. I still can’t beleive my eyes looking at the devastation
Can you or whoever knows shed a bit of light on the insurance picture ? I read in one comment that people could not be insured for this. Is that correct or is this more a matter of some people may have taken out flood insurance, others maybe not. Obviously if no one was insured because the insurance companies don’t cover this, then the need for financial assistance is even greater.
Thank you
Koos
SaveVernazza
November 7, 2011
Thanks for your message Koos. Yes, the images are quite disturbing.
Unfortunately insurance will not be covering damages caused by a natural disaster. Coverage of that nature is uncommon and very expensive. One relief is that existing policies can be cancelled or put on hold mid contract due to an event like this in order free the victim of future financial resposibility of monthly payments for their homes, cars, businesses that were destroyed.
With the help of the many that have enjoyed Vernazza in the past we look forward to restoring Vernazza to a place one can visit in the future. Together we can all make a difference
Koos
November 9, 2011
Hi Michele,
Thank you, too bad, but important to know as people consider donations so they don’t think businesses are insured/covered for this sort of event, as unusual as it was.
Nice to see the cleanup under way. Thanks for the pictures
Best to you all
Koos
Rocio de Romana
November 7, 2011
In the last two weeks I have been reading about Cinque Terre and particulary about Vernazza. Im peruvian and my husband South African and we love Italy, last year we were in Positano and since two weeks ago we were already planning a visit for next year in may.We were looking pictures every night and started dreaming with this magical place. Im already in love with Vernazza without having been there, and felt very sad when yesterday some relativesI have in Italy told me about this tragedy. You all are in my prayers and I am sure you together will re built your lives and place again, From South Africa I send you all the bless , love and light in order to have the serenity and energy to continue in this dificult moment.
All the best,
Rocio de Romana
GAIA ESPOSITO
November 8, 2011
Grazie a tutti..
Un abbraccio affettuoso a Gianni Franzi , nei mie ricordi piu’ belli c’e’ sempre stata Vernazza, la mia casa eterna della mia infanzia,le mie lacrime e rabbia mi hanno lasciato un vuoto,tutti insieme possiamo cambiarla e renderla piu’ sicura…
Nonn dimentichiamola….
Ti abbraccio Gianni, Esposito Gaia figlia di Salvatore
jim
November 10, 2011
Hi Save Vernazza. My fiance and I are getting married next weekend and our honeymoon was going to bring us back to Cinqueterre; Vernazza especially. It’s a tragedy what happened but in lieu of visiting as tourists, we could possibly come as volunteers. However, I can see how “stopping by” for 2 days to help could prove us being more a burden than assistance. Is there any advice/restrictions for people wanting to come help?
SaveVernazza
November 11, 2011
Thank you for your desire to help. At this time Vernazza is closed to all but emergency crews and local volunteers. Until a full assessment of the stability of the buildings and surrounding mountainsides is fully complete Vernazza is deemed unsafe. We will be keeping this site up to date as the clean up effort progresses and will post here any news regarding the need for volunteers from the outside. Please keep checking in with us.
Christian willesen
November 12, 2011
Dear Save Vernazza.
We are sad and touched by the news about what happend in the town. We had the pleasure to visit Vernazza in july for 3 days, with great stay at Guilianos place aswell as in a cosy stay at his cousisns hotel down the main road. The destroyal of this place hurts alot…and we sent our deepest thoughts and wishes for a safe and quick restoration for all who have lost their homes and survival abilities due to the catastrophe .
We will spread the news about what occoured in our network and make sure to donate what we can in order to help.
Looking foreward to visit Vernazza again, when its possible ….. We sent our deepest respect to all the volunteers and rescue workers who do a tremendous effort in this difficult time for the town.
Love from Beata and Christian from Copenhagen
Tami and Augie
November 13, 2011
Our hearts broke when we first learned of this tragedy, as Vernazza is a very special place to us, and our kids (and to countless others too). Our prayers are with all of you. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to help rebuild Vernazza through donations. Sending all our love, strength and peace from Austin, Texas.
Pam & Mike Lish
November 13, 2011
We came to Vernazza in August 2009 staying at Guiliano`s place. We have seen many places in this world but in only a very few do we say we MUST come back. Vernazza is such a place, and a few weeks ago we arranged with Guiliano to go back in August 2012.
We are devastated by the destruction wrought on this place. We will be going back to Vernazza as planned. Alongside the physical re-construction they will need to rebuild the local economy – we will make our small contribution to both.
Looking forward to again meeting those lovely people (especially Michele, Guiliano and Sophie), having breakfast with the Sicilian brothers, and experiencing the warmth of Vernazza.
Suzie Bocock
November 14, 2011
My heart breaks to see the devastation and read of the recent tragedies in Vernazza. I have had the privilege of being to Cinque Terre and Vernazza on 2 occasions over the last few years, wandering the quaint streets, swimming in the beautiful waters, sunning on the rocks, enjoying home made gelato, a cappuccino, a glass of wine from the region, pasta con pesto, limoncello, hiking the trails between the towns and enjoying the spectacular vistas. It is a beautiful part of the world, with beautful people.. and it will be again! Thank you for coordinating donations so that we can help make sure of that, e buona fortuna!
J. Schwartz
November 14, 2011
I am so very saddened to learn of the disaster that has occured in the Cinque Terre. We spent four beautiful days there, and stayed at Affita Camere de Annamarie at the top of Vernazza. The people are genuinely sweet people and they so gratiously welcome all of us who invade their precious towns each year. I will definitely make a donation. The people of the Cinque Terre, especially Vernazza have my thoughts, and prayers for a swift clean-up and complete restoration of their beautiful towns.
Diane Wise (Melbourne, Australia)
November 14, 2011
I am also shocked and saddened by this terrible disaster! We stayed at Vernazza in September 2009 for 3 wonderful and memorable days and nights as part of my husband’s last overseas trip (he was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer earlier that year and died 3 months later). Our two young adult sons and my brother-in-law came with us and we were able to enjoy Vernazza and walk the other villages in Cinqueterre also. Our hearts go out to you all, and I will be sure to contribute by donating to the clean-up and rebuild of such a beautiful place. Best wishes to you all, and I look forward to returning one day soon. xoxo
Marjorie Carter
November 14, 2011
I am so saddened to see what has happened in Vernazza. We visited there in mid-April of 2010 and it’s one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. One morning we sat sipping coffee at a table outside the Pirates, watching a terrace across the way being rebuilt. An American girl that worked in one of the shops was getting married to a local that day and we watched as the wedding party walked up the road to the church. My memories of Vernazza are very special. I will definitely make a contribution and hope it helps in some small way to restore your beautiful and friendly town.
Best to everyone,
Margie Carter
Los Angeles, California
Meghann
November 14, 2011
Like Anita, I am also interested in contacting the people of Vernazza. I was married at the Castello in 2009; the people of the town made this time very special for my husband and I. They are like family to us. Is there a way to contact Massimo of the Blue Marlin, or Monica from the Castello, or the owners of Gianni Franzi?
Amanda & Gerard Hooke
November 15, 2011
Thanks for letting us know how to help! Will do what we can and be back as soon as you’re open! Our favourite place! god bless all
Jillian Gibson
November 15, 2011
Thank you for keeping us informed. Michele’s news sounded a bit more cheerful today and how wonderful that you have been able to find some items thought lost. It sounds like sure but steady progress is being made and I look forward to more news after the town meeting later this week. It’s clear from the response from people around the world that Vernazza and its people have touched many, many hearts.
Reg and Larry from Canada
November 17, 2011
How utterly devastating for our friends in Vernazza. We had the pleasure of visiting in April 2010, after reading about Cinque Terre through Rick Steve’s. Our hearts go out to Annamarie, Barbara, Massimo and Luca at Il Pirata and all of the wonderful people of Vernazza! We are affirming that they are all safe!
Grazie amici….
Steve & Glennis
November 21, 2011
We were both saddened to here what happened at Vernazza. We only left Francamaria room 6 two days before the tragedy. We’ll definitely donate to help the cleanup, and sincerely hope this beautiful village is back up and running normally very soon.
Scott Shackleton
November 21, 2011
We stayed at Guilliano’s in Vernazza just two days before this terrible tragedy. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers. I will do what I can to help financially as well.
Paul and Susan Russoniello
November 21, 2011
During one visit that lasted only several days, my wife and I fell in love with Vernazza. It is with sadness that we view the devistation that has taken place but with hope as we see the committment to bring it back to life. We welcome each note updating us on the love and energy being given toward clean up and restoration. Thank you for keeping us up to date on what is happening.
Sheri
November 23, 2011
Thank you so much for continuing to update this site. We just heard about this tragedy, and had befriended Massimo on our visit to Vernazza just this past May. I am so glad to hear that he and his family are okay, and am astounded, but not surprised, to read the story of how he and Jeff, “The American,” as we called him, and their heroic saving of the 40 guests of the Blue Marlin.
I am so glad to read of Carmen’s determination to stay and rebuild — this is exactly how we felt about Vernazza after our visit, to the point where I was shopping for real estate and trying to decide how many piano students I would need to take to supplement our “Letto e Pranzo” (I’m not a morning person) income.
Please continue to keep us posted. I have been feeling somewhat frantic about Massimo and his family, as he “does not do email” and I haven’t wanted to intrude by trying to call. Do you know if phone service is restored to the area?
Sheri
November 23, 2011
I am so glad to hear that he and his family are okay, and am astounded, but not surprised, to read the story of how he and Jeff, “The American,” as we called him, saved the 40 guests of the Blue Marlin.
Thanks!
Debbie & Chuck White
November 23, 2011
We stayed in Vernazza for three days in early October and started to feel “part of the town.” The colors and setting and beauty were amazing! Our first day we could swim in the cove and the next day waves were crashing over the patio and wall. We stayed in AnnaMaria’s Camere Fontanavecchia and really enjoyed being up the hill. We wondered if the canal ever filled up?! The flood pictures are very hard to see, but we look forward to Vernazza’s renovation and all the returning tourists! We are glad to help out. Bless you all!
Tom and Julie
November 23, 2011
Tom and I were staying in Vernazza during the floods. Many of the local townfolk played a part in saving a lot of tourists, including us. From the locals who helped us get off the train platform, the locals who took us in, the locals who provided us with food, water, and dry clothing, and the locals who helped us onto the rescue boat — Thank you! Tom and I think about you and Vernazza every day. We send in money to help when we can….I lost my retainer (a small thing) during the disaster and needed to get it replaced. The normal arrangement with the orthodontist is that if a retainer is lost or damaged, the patient covers the cost of replacement, if it is defective or worn out, the orthodontist covers the cost, so it was my responsibility to pay for the replacement and I was willing to do so. But the retainer did wash away in the Vernazza floods and I want to help Vernazza in any way I can, so I struck up a deal with the orthodontist. He is not charging me for the replacement and I am sending the money I would have spent on it to ‘Save Vernazza’. I thank Dr. Kirby Nelson of Maple Valley Washington, USA for making my 35 Euro donation to Save Vernazza happen, and wish the best for Vernazza and its people.
Susan Ashby
November 23, 2011
I just found out about this! I can’t help but feel such emotion. We stayed in Vernazza 9 years ago for three days. It was a glorious visit and we have such wonderful memories. It is a place that we would return to again and again. And now, I will return. Our prayers with all those in Vernazza. We will not forget about you. Have faith and carry on.
kim gibson
November 23, 2011
Don’t worry Vernazza – we will come back. You are already on our travel plans!
Patricia Dee
December 20, 2011
I was there in October 2009 and a part of my heart is still there – I rented a room from Martina and we stayed high up over looking the piazza Marconi – my heart hurts for Martina and her family and the whole town. I too will return someday, but now in a small way I wish to donate to this cause.
I pray Martina and her family are safe and well. How devasting, truly my heart hurts for the damage of your hometown.
Patricia Dee
Anita Bruce
January 6, 2012
Bill and I have the sweetest memories of our stay in Vernazza, October 2010. I have no doubt that Vernazza WILL come back. It is the most special place and it’s residents are warm and engaging. Since I learned of this tragedy I have frequently thought of Annamaria and her mother, of Camere Fontana Vecchio where we stayed. I hope that they are safe and hopeful for the future. We have made a donation and send our thoughts to them and others we met in this very beautiful community.
Brock Turner
January 14, 2012
It was a shock to hear of the damage Vernazza and the Cinque Terre has suffered. We were just there in late September on a tour with ‘Europe Along the Scenic Routes’. Our guide introduced us to many locals and we feel so sorry for our new friends. We will definitely be returning to help support the community and to enjoy the natural beauty of this special region. Our thoughts are with you.
Liz and Brock Turner
Veronica Viggiano
January 20, 2012
Like Tom and Julie, my husband and I and my brother and his wife, were staying in Vernazza the day of the flash flood and were in the last group rescued from the train platform by three local men. We were escorted to the church by one of our rescuers and given blankets, towels and water by Don Giovanni—we will be forever thankful. After being led up to the rescue center near the mayor’s office, we were again treated with great thoughtfulness by local people who brought water, juices, cookies, etc. The son of the woman we rented our rooms from came to escort us to their home since our rooms were above a room filled with 12 feet of mud and debri. The next morning local men helped us over the streams, rocks and mud so that we could board the second boat evacuating the town. We will never forget Vernazza or the kindness of the people who had lost everything and still cared for us and guided us to safety.
Angela
January 20, 2012
For some inexplicable reason only today, January 20, did I sit down to read carefully and listen to these awful videos. I was away from home when this happened to Vernazza and only returned in December – to get caught up in the holidays, etc. Then It was January and winter struck in Canada – and well, I run out of excuses. I sit here weeping for this beautiful place and its wonderful people. Vernazza was a refuge for me first in 2002, burnt out from working in Kosovo. I have returned without fail, every year since. First Giuliano, then his wife Michele and beautiful little Sofie are people I consider friends. Their generosity is typical of the kindness and consideration these email messages speak of. Vernazza is a place of the heart and has given joy to so many of us who have visited. We know it will be re-born. You are in my heart as you embark on this tremendous task. See you soon.
Loren & Twila H
January 26, 2012
We have made reservations for a 4 day stay at the Elisabetta Carro rooms in late May (http://www.elisabettacarro.it/index.html). Do you know if these rooms are fully operational at this time with water, sewer, electricity? Are there restaurants in the area for purchase of meals? Can we arrive by train as we planned? We would appreciate any other information that would be useful in these circumstances. We are still planning to stay in Vernazza if you think it would not cause undue hardship on you or us. We would be interested in providing some assistance with the rebuilding of Vernazza during our stay, if this would be of help.
SaveVernazza
January 30, 2012
As far as we are aware, Camere Elisabetta Carro sustained no damages on October 25, 2011 and should be operable the time you plan to be in Vernazza. However, it would be best to double check with them at carroelisabetta@hotmail.com.
At the moment there is one restaurant open in Vernazza with others planning to open as restorations are completed. Come late May (the time you intend on being in Vernazza) we anticipate many more (if not almost all) to be open for business. And yes, train service is back to normal in Vernazza so you will be able to arrive by train.
Regarding the trails, it is difficult to determine when the work to trail number 2 (from Manarola through to Monterosso) will be completed as the weather is a factor for the project timeline. The Via dell’Amore (the part of the #2 between Riomaggiore and Manarola) will definitely be open. And, there are other hikes to consider like trail #8 from Vernazza to Madonna di Reggio.
With all that being said we recommend you do not cancel your reservation. Vernazza will not be 100% when you come but should be suitable for visitors. Plus, the people of Vernazza would be very happy to have you.
And, with regards to your offer of volunteer assistance we will record your contact information within our volunteer database and alert you should opportunities be available at that time.
Kim
January 30, 2012
My daughter is in Spain as an exchange student. We are Canadians. I will be joining her there during Easter break we will have 3 weeks doing a mother , daughter tour of Italy, my daughter has been to the Cinque Terre and we are planning to go there April 1 2012,,, are the trains running can we get there?,,,, We will be in Rome and then to Pisa and onto La Spezia,,,, would love to go to the Cinque Terre but would like to know if an where we can stay there??? I will do anything to bring my tourist dollars there,,, devastation or not. God bless
Joanna Olson
February 23, 2012
I fell in love with the Cinque Terre from the window of a train as we periodically came out of the tunnels. That was in 1988, and I told my companion I was coming back some day. I’ve been back three times, and plan to be in Vernazza (hopefully) next Fall. I’ve been concerned for all the people of the villages, but especially worried about Manuela and her Nonna in Vernazza. We stayed in the apartment above Nonna’s the last two times we were there. We’ve eaten in most of the restaurants over the years, but we especially enjoyed the twins and their families at Il Pirato (I’ll never forget their canoli). Hopefully, they are all right, and will be back in business soon. Friends from the US were there during the floods, and miraculously escaped from one of the restaurants near the harbor. They alerted me to the floods, and I’ve been worried about the villagers since then. I placed your website on my Facebook page hoping to drum up contributions for the rebuilding. Good luck to all of you, and I hope things will return to normal as soon as possible.
Michaela Wingen
March 25, 2012
Seit 6 Jahren verbringen wir unseren Urlaub jeden Sommer in Levanto.
Unser erster Ausflug geht immer zuerst nach Vernazza.
Ich werde niemals den Tag vergessen,an dem ich die ersten Bilder dieser Tragödie gesehen habe.
Ich konnte die Tränen nicht zurückhalten.
Ich wünsche den Menschen von Vernazza weiterhin Kraft und Energie, Vernazza wieder zu der Perle am Mittelmeer zu machen,wie vorher.
Mein Beileid den Angehörigen der Opfer.
Bis zum Sommer
Jill Miller
April 12, 2012
Hello,
Vernazza is such a beautiful town with such wonderful people. It was the highlight of our Italy trip in 2010. Our favorite stop was at the Pirate restaraunt. There were two brothers there that were great hosts. Does anyone know if they are ok? We send them many prayers and thoughts.
Veronica Viggiano
April 13, 2012
Both brothers are fine but their restaurant and their rooms suffered very heavy damage. There are pictures of them on this site if you check out all the videos and slide shows. One of the pictures shows them looking into their restaurant which is filled from floor to ceiling with mud and rocks.