Montalto Ligure, located in Valle Argentina, is a medieval hilltop village founded before the year 1000 by small groups of coastal inhabitants seeking refuge from Lombard and Saracen invasions.
Legend has it that it was the refuge of two young newlyweds fleeing the “jus primae noctis” that Count Oberto of Ventimiglia claimed to exercise throughout the area. Joined by many friends, they formed the first true inhabited nucleus of Montalto (from the Latin “Mons Autus”), which remained under the rule of the Counts of Ventimiglia until the mid-1200s, when it became territory of the Genoese Republic, becoming part of the Podesteria of Triora.
Loggia degli Sposi
The Loggia degli Sposi is an ancient building, recently restored, located within the charming historic center. Visitors can appreciate the exposed stone interior walls, the arches, the floor made of ancient slate slabs called “ciappe,” and at its center, the municipal coat of arms also reproduced in slate by a local artist. Montalto is a romantic destination, and lovers of all ages who visit the village are captivated by it. This particularly evocative corner thus becomes the ideal setting for those wishing to celebrate their wedding.