Pliny the Elder claims that Portofino was founded by the Romans, who originally named it Portus Delphini, due to the large population of dolphins. A fishing village until the 1950s, colourful fishing boats still moor in the harbour alongside luxury yachts. From the sea-front Piazzetta, visitors can hike up to the Castello Brown, a 16th century fortress that now serves as a museum with many art exhibitions and panoramic views of the town and the Ligurian Sea. A popular escape for the English aristocracy at the end of the 19th century, the waterfront is lined with an array of cafes offering fresh seafood, perfect for people watching.