Oratory of the Disciplinanti

It is one of the most significant historic buildings in the village and part of the monumental core that defines the identity of the centre. The oratory dates back to the 15th century and was the seat of the Confraternity of the Disciplinanti, a lay community active as early as the 14th century and involved in religious, charitable and community support activities. The name “Azzurri” probably comes from the colour of the cloak worn by members during processions.

The building has a simple gabled structure, typical of Ligurian architecture, with a plastered façade and a stone portal topped by a lunette and a tympanum with a circular opening.

The oratory overlooks Piazza Papa Innocenzo IV, one of the most important places in Manarola, where some of the village’s main historic buildings are concentrated, including the Church of San Lorenzo, the bell tower and the area of the ancient San Rocco lazaretto. This position makes it a natural stop during a visit and a useful point from which to understand the layout of the village and the role of confraternities in local life.

Its function remains mainly religious and community-based, although over time it has also hosted cultural initiatives such as art and photography exhibitions.