Punta Mesco is a rocky promontory that rises from the pristine waters of the Ligurian Sea. It offers breathtaking views and a habitat rich in biodiversity.
Monterosso al Mare: Punta Mesco
Punta Mesco is located between Monterosso al Mare and Levanto, in the Cinque Terre. Punta Mesco is the highest cliff in the Cinque Terre Marine Protected Area. Throughout its history, it has always played a strategic role in monitoring a large portion of the sea and, in particular, the inlet of Monterosso al Mare, one of the villages of the Cinque Terre.
The History of Punta Mesco and the Hermitage of Sant’Antonio
The promontory of Punta Mesco acts as a natural watershed between the urban landscape of Levanto and the wild beauty of Cinque Terre National Park. Its privileged position offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding picturesque coastal towns, making it a sought-after destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Geology and physical features
Punta Mesco is notable for its imposing geological formation, characterized by steep slopes and sheer cliffs. Its origin dates back millions of years, when tectonic movements and erosion profoundly shaped the landscape. The predominant rock is slate, typical of the Ligurian region, giving the promontory its characteristic dark colors. However, until the early 20th century, quarries were still active in this area, extracting serpentine, a typically green snake-like rock with a bluish tint.
Since ancient times, this place has been a reference point for navigators and has hosted human settlements, as evidenced by the remains of ancient structures and communication routes. During the Middle Ages, Punta Mesco gained significance due to its strategic location, which protected the coast from pirate attacks. Over the years, the promontory has retained its mysterious charm, inspiring artists, poets, and travelers in search of beauty.
The Hermitage of Sant’Antonio
Today, at the tip of Punta Mesco lie the ruins of the Hermitage of Saint Anthony, first mentioned in documents in 1355. However, comparing its architectural decoration with that of the ancient church of Saint Christopher in Monterosso al Mare, it suggests that the church of Saint Anthony dates back to the 11th–12th century.
At that time, it was likely a dependency of the Diocese of Brugnato, the main town of the nearby Vara Valley. Some Augustinian monks ran and managed the church of Saint Anthony. These monks guarded the border area since the Middle Ages. The establishment of the Hermitage of Saint Anthony led to a phase of development in cultivated areas on the Mesco promontory.
The History of the Hermitage of Saint Anthony at Mesco.
The presence of terraces built by local farmers and monks allowed for the cultivation of vineyards here in the 14th century, according to documents. These monks also had to monitor sea transit and potential pirate approaches. In 1451, the Republic of Genoa ordered them to signal the arrival of enemies with fire and smoke.
The Turks plundered Monterosso al Mare in 1548, capturing most of the women and children. Since then, Monterosso established guard shifts, sending two guards daily from Monterosso to assist the monks of Punta Mesco in their surveillance work.
The abandonment of Punta Mesco
Despite the presence of vineyards and olive groves, Punta Mesco was not a fertile and hospitable place. For this reason, the communities of Levanto and Monterosso, in addition to the danger of pirate landings, made every effort to prevent the Augustinians from abandoning Punta Mesco.
However, the monks did abandon this territory. At the end of the 16th century, the hermits moved to Levanto, in an area near Porta dell’Acqua. Here they purchased land with two dilapidated houses to build a convent and a church. The works finished in the mid-17th century. Visitors can still visit the abandoned hermitage’s ruins by following the path starting from the locality of Fegina in Monterosso.
Monterosso, Cinque Terre: Description of the Hermitage of Saint Anthony
Today, at Punta Mesco in Monterosso, Cinque Terre, the ruins of the church remain, with its semicircular apse and facade resting on a rocky cliff still visible. The cliff obviously did not allow access, which is why a side entrance also appears on the same facade.
Built on the ruins of a previous settlement, likely dating back to the early Middle Ages, the hermitage of Saint Anthony served as a lookout and signaling point. From Punta Mesco, in fact, the coastline view extends from the island of Tino to Portofino.
The Ruins Today
The church of Sant’Antonio and the monastery still retain the Gothic portal with a pointed arch, part of the left wall, part of the apse, and the base of the bell tower. The Oratory of the Neri in Monterosso al Mare now houses the statue of Saint Anthony from the church. A burial dating back to the late Middle Ages emerged during some restoration works at the hermitage.
A short distance from the hermitage is the abandoned military signal station. The first structure of the station dates back to the early 20th century. The construction of the station was carried out at the expense of the walls of the religious complex. In fact, they provided the material for modern construction.
Punta Mesco and the Hermitage of Saint Anthony, Cinque Terre Visit Information
The site is freely accessible all year round. We recommend equipping yourself for trekking and, above all, wearing appropriate shoes for the visit.
Punta Mesco and the Hermitage of Saint Anthony: How to Get There
Punta Mesco is part of the Cinque Terre National Park. You can reach Punta Mesco on foot in about an hour and a half. The SVA 590 trail begins at Fegina in Monterosso, situated behind the Statue of the Giant. After covering a stretch of paved road near the Albergo Suisse Bellevue, the trail resumes. At the Levanto crossroads, a sign points the way to the fascinating hermitage ruins, accessible via a second path that begins near the Levanto castle.
Punta Mesco Trails
Punta Mesco is a paradise for hikers wishing to walk in the wild. A robust network of trails weaves through the area’s diverse landscape. Along the trails, visitors can admire spectacular views of the Cinque Terre and the vast marine horizon.
Along the way, you can admire the Mediterranean scrub, enjoying the scents of aromatic herbs and the singing of birds. Other nearby trails offer the chance to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches. Each path offers moments of peace and solitude in contact with nature.
Flora and Fauna
The nature of Punta Mesco is rich and varied, thanks to its geographical position and the mild climate of the Ligurian Sea. The Mediterranean scrub dominates the vegetation. It includes typical species, such as holm oak, strawberry tree, rosemary, and thyme. This habitat is ideal for numerous species of birds, insects, and mammals. In fact, they find refuge and nourishment among the dense vegetation and rocky slopes. The marine area in front of Punta Mesco is equally rich in life. Its seabed is home to a diversity of marine species. For this reason, it is also a place of interest for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Punta Mesco is the subject of important conservation initiatives aimed at protecting its natural and cultural heritage. Its inclusion in the Cinque Terre National Park, which is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, testifies to the commitment to protecting this fragile ecosystem. The park actively tackles issues like coastal erosion, pollution, and human influence. Sustainable management policies and awareness-raising activities aim to preserve the biodiversity of Punta Mesco.
Why visit Punta Mesco?
This site represents a natural and cultural treasure of Eastern Liguria and the province of La Spezia in particular. This is a place where history blends with nature, creating a landscape of incomparable beauty. The wealth of trails, the diversity of flora and fauna, and the commitment to conservation make Punta Mesco an unmissable destination. This is particularly true for individuals seeking to explore less crowded locations on the Ligurian Riviera. Hikers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts will find in Punta Mesco a place of inspiration and deep connection with the natural environment.
Punta Mesco and the Hermitage of Sant’Antonio Gallery
Path Punta Mesco
Punta Mesco map trails
Monterosso al Mare weather
Meteo Monterosso al mare
Tourist information offices in Monterosso
Cinque Terre National Park InfoPoint
The address is Via Fegina, 40 – c/o Monterosso Railway Station (1st floor).
The Park Info Line is active every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the number 0039 0187 1857573 and at the email infopoint@parconazionale5terre.it, for information on the protected area and the services offered by the Park.
