The Italian Riviera is renowned for its rugged coastline and romantic towns and villages. But the five towns of Cinque Terre, which date back to the 11^th century, are surely its most iconic highlight. I was doing reconnaissance in Riomaggiore, the southernmost of the Cinque Terre villages, the day before this shot was taken. It was filled with tourists and abuzz with activity. Returning early this particular morning was quite eerie. I felt like I had the whole town to myself, apart from a few early workers and the odd stray cat. It was a special treat to watch the first light of day slipping into the harbour. After I had taken this photo, the town slowly began to awaken. People began to emerge from their homes and go about their business, ready to face the next onslaught of visitors. When I finally went to leave, train loads of new visitors were beginning to arrive. If they had witnessed the town's awakening, I'm sure they would have been amazed at the serenity of this ancient coastal town.