The Stair of the Doomed climbs from the Terrizzo to the Palmaria Island top. A walk along the route used by the prisoners convicted to forced labor for the construction of the Forte Cavour
The archipelago of La Spezia includes- with its three islands – more than one reason for charm and interest. Palmaria Island, which already can be appreciated for its beautiful clear waters and wildlife, is an excellent destination not only for swimming but also for those who love hiking. Among the various paths that cross the island’s surface, one has a special and “cursed” story: the Stair of the doomed.
The Stair of the Doomed: up the steps for punishment
Not far from the landing point of Terrizzo (which can be reached by boat from La Spezia following this schedule), proceeding towards the edge of the island overlooking the church of San Pietro in Porto Venere, you see on the left the sign of the Stair of the Doomed (or Route of the Doomed ).
Although the name may put you off and predict an exhausting climb, it is a not particularly difficult ppath ofbout 40 minutes – covering a difference in height of 150 meters – leads to the peak of the Palmaria island.
The steps , which climbs with a majestic look to the top of the island, holds a nineteenth century name , when every day it was climbed by hundreds of convicts (mostly lifers) who were brought to the island to take part in the construction of the Fort Cavour .