Lavatoio del Mangiola

## Overview Lavatoio del Mangiola is a historic public drinking spring located in the Ligurian countryside of Italy, near the coordinates 44.314102°N, 9.887749°E. The name "Lavatoio" — Italian for "washhouse" — speaks to the site's long history as a communal gathering point where locals once came not only to collect fresh spring water but also to wash clothes and linens. In addition to the washhouse, a public mill once operated in this area, suggesting that the Mangiola spring and its water flow played an important role in the daily life and economy of the surrounding community for generations. The spring sits in the province of La Spezia in eastern Liguria, a region celebrated for its rugged coastal landscapes, terraced hillsides, and abundant natural water sources fed by the Apennine mountain range. Springs like Lavatoio del Mangiola have historically served as vital freshwater sources for small towns and villages throughout this part of Italy, and many remain in use today as public fountains. ## Directions 1. The spring is located at GPS coordinates **44.314102, 9.887749**. Enter these into your navigation app for the most direct route. 2. The site is situated in the hilly interior of eastern Liguria, in the general area between La Spezia and the Cinque Terre coast. Expect narrow, winding roads typical of the Ligurian countryside as you approach. 3. Look for signage or a stone structure characteristic of traditional Italian public washhouses (*lavatoi*), which typically feature a covered basin or trough fed by a spout or pipe. ## What to Expect At Lavatoio del Mangiola, visitors will find a traditional Italian public spring — likely a stone fountain or spout — set in a rural Ligurian landscape. The site has historically been used as a source of fresh drinking water by the local community, and the remains or restored structure of the old washhouse may still be visible, offering a charming glimpse into rural Italian life. The water has historically been used by locals for drinking and domestic purposes, though as with any natural spring, conditions can change over time. The surrounding area reflects the characteristic beauty of inland Liguria: terraced hillsides, chestnut and olive groves, and quiet village roads. This is a wonderful stop for travelers exploring the Ligurian backcountry, history enthusiasts interested in traditional Italian water infrastructure, or anyone looking to experience an authentic piece of rural Italian heritage away from the busy coastal tourist areas.