Situated in the northwest Italian province of La Spezia, Liguria, the town of Vernazza has become an unforgettable tourist destination. Long known for its fishing, olive oil, and wine production, it was a fortified town as early as A.D. 1080. Its picturesque landmark, the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, dates back to at least A. D. 1318. Its octagonal bell tower was built centuries later. Friends of mine got to tour this part of Italy on a 10-day excursion staying in private homes open to travelers. This scene is one of my favorites. There’s no missing the artistic genius of the Creator in the breathtaking beauty of rugged mountains plunging into the jewel-like Mediterranean.