Museo Civico del Lucus Bormani
About This Museum
Tucked away in the heart of Diano Marina, the Museo Civico del Lucus Bormani feels less like a formal institution and more like a conversation with the past. Its name hints at its unique purpose: it's dedicated to unearthing the story of this specific stretch of the Ligurian coast, from its ancient origins as a Roman settlement ('Lucus Bormani') right up to the 19th century. This isn't a museum of imported treasures but a deeply local archive where every artifact feels intimately connected to the land and sea outside its doors. You get a powerful sense of place here, a narrative woven directly from the soil of Diano Marina.
Collection Highlights
The collections are wonderfully grounded. You'll find Roman amphorae pulled from the seabed, medieval ceramics from local kilns, and even remnants of a 5th-century Christian basilica discovered during town development. A particularly fascinating section details the area's maritime history through navigational charts and everyday objects from sailing ships, telling personal stories of trade and life at sea.
Visitor Information
Finding it is easy—just head to the main Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi. It's compact enough to enjoy in an hour or two, making it a perfect cultural pit-stop during a day exploring the Riviera. The staff are typically passionate locals who are happy to share insights, so don't be shy about asking questions.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a traditional Ligurian building, its pale yellow facade and green shutters blend seamlessly into the charming streetscape, feeling more like a grand old townhouse than a museum.
Contact & Location
Address: Biblioteca Civica A.S. Novaro, 60, Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi, Diano Calderina, Diano Marina, Provincia di Imperia, Liguria, 18013, Italia
Phone: +39 0183 497621
