The stone requires almost no work and has many applications such as blackboards in schools and billiard tables. The name derives from the French word 'ardoise' after similar stone deposits found in the Ardennes territory of France.

In Liguria, you need to head to Lavagna on the Riviera di Levante. The production of ardesia from the 15th century was so important for the country that the word 'lavagna' is now the generic term for blackboard in Italy.

Today, what is left of the industry is located in the valleys of Fontanabuona and such places as Carasco, Chiavari, Cicagna, Orero, Lorsica, Moconesi, Tribogna and Coreglia, province of Genoa.

Drop into the Museo dell'Ardesia in Cicagna or the Museo della Cava di Isolona di Orero. www.fontanabuona.com

One of the typical dish of the Riviera del Levante is the Fugassa co formaggio, focaccia con il formaggio, pizza bread with cheese