Lorsica: Damask, Weaving and Mountain Trails

Lorsica can be explored through two distinctive themes: its traditional silk weaving and the mountain landscape with its trails. Its cultural history includes fabrics and patterns, the Museo del Damasco and the Church of Santa Maria Annunciata. Whether you are choosing between crafts, architectural history and outdoor trails, these local features provide a concrete framework for planning your trip.

Silk Weaving and Damask

Lorsica has been known for centuries for weaving fine silk fabrics. These include damask, lampas, taffeta, shantung and macramé. The long tradition is also reflected in the work of the Figli di Demartini Giuseppe workshop: it preserves more than 300 exclusive patterns, passed down within the family since the 16th century. The Demartini family has woven fine textiles continuously since 1500.

The production area of Damaschi e Tessuti di Lorsica covers only the municipality of Lorsica. The qualities of the damask made here are also part of this craft tradition: it is prized for its lustre, the precision of its patterns, and the strength and density of its weave. Both the design of the patterns and the nature of the fabric are thus part of the local textile craft.

Museum and Local Crafts

The Museo del Damasco di Lorsica displays tools used to process fine yarn by hand, as well as a gallery of damask and lampas fabrics. These fabrics are still made today by the only remaining company. The juxtaposition of tools and textiles traces the process from the material and its treatment to the finished fabrics. The Museo del Damasco has no architectural barriers.

The Church of Santa Maria Annunciata offers another perspective on the local heritage. The present-day church was built between the late 17th and early 18th centuries, partly on the foundations of the previous parish church. Inside, red damask fabrics with a palm motif adorn the sacred space; they were donated by local weavers. Here, architectural history and weaving come together in a specific place, without requiring a separate detour to a workshop.

Historic Trails and Monte Ramaceto

Near Lorsica, historic trails pass through mountain landscapes of small ravines, rocks and trees. Water has shaped the rocks, creating natural pools and slides. Visitors interested in the landscape will find another focus here alongside the textile sights: geological formations and trails in the mountain region. Route 58 of the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri starts in Lorsica.

Monte Ramaceto overlooks Lorsica from the southwest and is described as a protective mountain for the village. It is a destination for walks in every season, including winter. Winter equipment may be necessary on difficult sections. This seasonal difference is useful when planning: walks are among the described options even in winter, but difficult sections may require appropriate equipment.

Cycling Route and Visit Planning

The 33-kilometre Ciclovia dell’Ardesia runs between Lavagna and Gattorna along the Torrente Lavagna. From Monleone, a climb leads towards Lorsica, described as a challenge for trained cyclists. The Ciclovia and this climb should therefore be considered as separate route options. Check the route conditions before setting out.

A visit to Tessitura DeMartini and its showroom at Via Scaletta 78, 16045 Lorsica Genova, can be arranged by contacting Stefania DeMartini. Arrange your visit before travelling by calling +39 393 8653643. This allows you to include the visit in your plans without assuming that access is available without prior notice.

Discover more destinations: Roverazza, Neirone, Ruta, La Costa, Mignanego, Bargone, Borzonasca, Montoggio.

For the broader travel overview: Genoa.