History

In 954 Seborga, then called “Castrum Sepulcri” officially appeared in the history books when Guido, the Count of Ventimiglia, donated it to the Benedictine monks of the Monastery of Lerins in France.

From 1666 to 1687 the monks, of whom the Priory Abbot held the title of Ecclesiastical Prince, established a residency here. Connected to this was the mint, that produced silver coins. These coins were legal tender.

In 1729 the Benedictines sold their feudal state to the Duke of Savoy, which then became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia, and in turn became part of a unified Italy and finally in 1946 the Italian Republic.

In 1993 the residents democratically elected their own Prince to perpetuate its ancient and noble history. Seborga is therefore the only place in Italy which alongside its mayor also has a “Prince”.

Monuments

At the entrance of the village you will find the small 13th century chapel dedicated to San Bernardo, co-patron saint of Seborga.

In the central square there is the church of San Martino, it’s facade including the fresco of San Martino, has recently been restored. To the left of this church is the “Palace”, ancient residency of the monks that also includes the remains of the mint.

In the historic centre you can still see the remains of the prison and the ancient walls that surrounded the village.

Tourist  Activities

The village offers various events that are part of its historic, cultural and religious traditions.

Festa of San Sebastiano (20th January).

Festival – Easter including the Exhibition of paintings and floral arranging competition.

Festa of San Bernardo (20th August) with the historic procession.

Festa of San Martino (11th November) with a historical and literature prize.

Every Thursday  and Saturday night throughout July and August, open-air music, dancing and local food.

Ecological walks in the surrounding countryside are possible thanks to maintained paths.