GE_34 Ring path AQ2

The starting point is the base “CAI-ULE of Molassana” (Giardini Maurizio Orengo). Follow via Bernardini, then the bridge over the Geirato stream and go up along Salita Costafredda till the historical aqueduct of Genoa. The Historical Genoese Aqueduct is one of the most imposing monuments of the old Genoa. It was built in the year 900, and later restored to supply the City of Genoa. Galileo Galilei suggested how to build it. It's 19 Km long (with 4,5 Km of further parts). From Castelletto quartier it reaches the confluence between the Bisagno and Lentro rivers (Comune di Bargagli). Follow the aqueduct for 2 Km, then go up with easy mule track up to the first pass. Turn left and reach “Terre Rosse” and “Castelluzzo” (locality: Ulivo). This area is singular for its history and biodiversity. Here there are “calanchi” (gully), shapes due to the erosion of rainy waters in claystone outcrops. They are red wine and blue. The sunny slope of these area let the mediterranean shrub to grow, with strawberry trees and brooms. A mediterranean landscape inside a inland wood surrounding. On the top of a hill, not far from here, there is a small building dates back to the X century. It was a tower to control the "Via di Genova" (“Way of Genoa) and to preserve from pirates attacks. The nortern side is a nesting point of nocturnal birds of prey. From the crossroad follow up along the mule track up to the Monte Croce di San Siro (541m). After meet the asfalt road and follow it till Villini di Creto (here there is the sign “Alta Via dei Monti Liguri). After 1 km reach the Colla del Canile (630m) the highest point. Reach a dirt road (aqueduct “Valnoci”, to Genova Righi). After take in the left a footpath (trail marker: AQ2) till Castello di Pino village. With a mule track go down till Via Geirato (pass below the bridge siphon Geirato) to come back to the starting point.