The restoration of statue of the Giant of Monterossocompleted in 2022 after four years of work, has restored splendor to one of the most representative works of the Cinque Terre. The majestic statue, 14 meters high and weighing 1,700 quintalswas sculpted in 1910 by the artist Arrigo Minerbi in collaboration with the engineer Leandro Levacher.
Located on the Fegina rocknear the beach of the same name, represents Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, symbol of the intense bond between Monterosso and its marine environment. The restoration, supervised by the architect Angela Zattera and financed by the owners of the area, involved the consolidation of the structure and the recovery of heavily damaged partssuch as nose, head, shell and foot, to preserve this important historical testimony.
Neptune originally held a large shell and had arms and a trident
The statue was commissioned by Giovanni and Juanita Pastine, Monterosso residents who returned from Argentina, for adorn their homeVilla Pastine, destroyed during the Second World War. Originally, Neptune ruled a large shell and possessed arms and a tridentbut war events and bad weather have progressively mutilated the work. Despite the damage, the Giant remained a symbol for the local community and an attraction for millions of visitors.
The manufacturing technique in reinforced concretecombined with the panoramic position of the statue, contributes to its uniqueness. In addition to its aesthetic value, the work represents an example of cultural resilience: despite the damage it has suffered, it has always found new supporters ready to intervene for its conservation.
The latest restoration, which began in 2017, was necessary due to the risk of rock detachments which had forced the closure of the nearby free beach. Thanks to the commitment of the Decorart company and the coordination with the Superintendence of Liguria, the Giant can now once again be admired in its imposing beauty.
Today the Neptune of Monterosso is not only an artistic and historical symbol, but also a testimony to the continuous interaction between man and nature. Located in one of the most evocative locations in the Cinque Terre, the statue is easily accessible and is located near one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Visiting the Giant means immersing yourself in the history of Monterosso and the enchantment of the Ligurian landscape.
