Aristides Angel: Photograph by Will Tenney

Aristide’s Angel

Nearly hidden from view on the wall above the trattoria of the Aristide Hotel in the Italian Riviera village of Manarola, I cannot help but think of this figure as an angel. When you arrive at Manarola by train, the town is on the other side of a high rocky promontory from the station. To reach the town, there is a long pedestrian tunnel through the rock. Coming out at the other end, you are greeted by a small piazza and the outdoor trattoria of the Aristide Hotel. The scene is so magical that you never look up to see this little guy dispensing his blessings you.