Perinaldo

Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club

Perinaldo's most famous native was the astronomer to the Sun King. His name was Gian Domenico Cassini. The work of this scientist, who was also an eminent biologist, is documented in the Cassini museum and in the Municipal Observatory, which regularly organises events and them evenings for astronomy enthusiasts. Via G.D. Cassini is decorated with a series of murals and a scale representation of the solar system, rather like an outdoor museum. The parish church of St Nicholas, which still has the beautiful slate overdoor (Agnus Dei) from the earlier building and an altarpiece (Ecce Homo) dating from 1465, looks onto Piazza Croesi.

On the road to San Romolo, there is a fantastic view of Apricale (which also has a TCI Orange Flag), Bajardo and the surrounding mountains. For walkers, a network of hiking trails connects Perinaldo to the nearby towns.

The typical dishes served in the village restaurants include the Perinaldo artichoke (accredited by Slow Food), Taggiasca extra-virgin olive oil and the local wine, vino Rossese di Dolceacqua.