The oldest city off the coast of the Gulf of Genoa, the 2nd largest seaport in Italy is truly legendary. The multifaceted history of Genoa, which began long before Christ. e, left here many unique monuments. The birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Marco Polo, Genoese merchants is interesting for its history. From the first steps along the pavements of a unique city, you are imbued with a special flavor.
It is best to walk around the city on foot or rent a Segway to see unique buildings and monuments “eye to eye”. Genoa is a 2-level city, which has a system of 10 elevators and 2 funiculars, which greatly facilitates an independent tour.
Aquarium of Genoa
Did you arrive in Genoa by train or bus to Piassa Principe train station? Then it is very convenient for you to walk from it in 10 minutes to the Old Port – a promenade tourist area. First of all, all tourists go there to see the main attractions. Among the seaside objects, the most popular is the Aquarium – the largest oceanarium in Europe in terms of area (3100 sq. m.).
The grandiose building was erected on Ponte Spinola for the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America by Columbus in 1992. You will be impressed by the unusual appearance of the building, similar to a ship being launched into the water. To save 20 €, it is worth buying a complex ticket at the box office, which includes visits to the Aquarium and museums. (It would not be superfluous to immediately buy a map of the historical center of Genoa) Advice: in order not to waste time standing in line, it is better to “book” on the Internet through the institution's website.
Each of the 70 aquariums presented in this amazing world of water and glass is a special ecosystem inhabited by inhabitants of different climatic zones. Walking between the transparent walls, you will get to know a fantastic world inhabited by sharks, caimans, piranhas, dolphins, seals and other representatives of marine fauna and flora. If you are lucky, you will see an amazing show with dolphins, you will be able to feed the stingrays and even pet them. Believe me, the impressions of visiting the “Aquarium” will not be erased from memory for a long time.
Botanical Garden “Biosphere”
Leaving the “Aquarium”, go through Ponte Spinola and at 190 m you will see a huge glass ball that is impossible not to notice. Shimmering with reflections of the blue sky, white clouds and the blue of the sea, it looks like a giant Christmas tree toy. This is a unique museum-garden “Biosphere”, also associated with the name of Columbus.
The glass sphere is a symbol of the globe around which the great discoverer swam. This miracle of modern architecture was erected right on the water, but there is no pitching due to the strong strengthening of the base. Entering inside, you find yourself among a tropical garden with representatives of the flora of South America, where the Columbus expedition moored.
The most sophisticated computer system regulates the climate control of the premises around the clock. Palm trees, creepers, ferns and other exotic vegetation will make you forget that all this is not in the natural environment. Passing in a circle along the walls, you will see parrots, turtles, butterflies of fantastic colors. White triangles of sails soar above the multi-colored green riot of flora – another symbol of sea travel. Coming out of here, you will undoubtedly think about the diversity of wildlife and the careful attitude to it.
Maritime Museum “Galata”
At 200 meters from the “Aquarium” there is an equally interesting object available to you with a combined ticket, if you have one. “Galata” is the place where they started their voyage and where the fateful Genoese ships were kept. The 5-storey glass building of the museum, opened in 2004, houses all kinds of maritime exhibits.
The whole history of the development of shipbuilding and navigation clearly passes before our eyes. Fragments of ships from different eras, equipment items, maps of sea voyages, portholes, tools, latrine figures of ancient ships on the 1st and 2nd floors illustrate the evolution of maritime art.
The 3rd floor introduces the emigration of Italians to America. As an emigrant, you will be given a passport at the entrance, and you will go on a journey-quest on a “big liner” across the ocean. This action will appeal not only to children, but also to adults. On the next floors there are also a lot of “highlights”. You can practice on a yacht control simulator or another vessel of your choice. The peak of the inspection is the real submarine S518 Nazano Sauro, which you inspect from the inside.
La Lanterna Lighthouse
20 meters from the Galata Museum is another symbol of Genoa – the almost 900-year-old lighthouse of La Lanterna. Built in 1128, it has become a guiding light for many generations of sailors. For some time, a tax was levied on the maintenance of the lighthouse from ships calling at the port. For one year (1400) a prison was located in its premises. In the 16th century it had to be reconstructed after the destruction of Genoa and France by the war.
The ancient building is also interesting because its history is connected with the name of Columbus: the navigator's uncle served as a lighthouse keeper in 1449. Technological progress, which does not stand still, has repeatedly touched the lighthouse. La Terna's lighting system has been upgraded from time to time.
Outdated lanterns were replaced in 1874 with rotating Fresnel lenses (they are now stored in the museum). The electrics were repeatedly altered and Lanterna was restored again after the bombing by the British-American Air Force in 1945. La Lanterna for the Genoese is a symbol of steadfastness and stamina.
Panoramic lift “Il Bigot”
You will experience the feeling of flying on the panoramic elevator “Il Bigot”. The outlandish building, erected on the occasion of the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America, is located right there, in the Old Port, on the shore of the bay. A large round cabin, suspended from a powerful boom of a giant likeness of a port crane, is the elevator itself. It accommodates 30 people at the same time, lifting them to a height of almost 40 meters.
Interestingly, the imitation crane has several arrows, in addition to the one on which the cabin is mounted. The remaining arrows on cables hold the roof of the concert hall located in the bay. You will be lucky if there is no queue and you don't have to wait long. But usually there are fewer people in the morning hours, and with a combined ticket on hand, you won't have to wait long to get up.
From above, a panoramic view of stunning views of the old city and the port opens up. Of course, judging by the reviews, the large crowding of people in the cockpit spoils the impression. But the beautiful panorama of the city, the feeling of flying compensate for this inconvenience. Are you hungry?
Many small restaurants on the territory of the old port are at your service. Praiseworthy reviews deserved a fish restaurant located in the grocery supermarket Eataly on the 1st floor. Dishes from the freshest seafood and Ligurian fish will satisfy and delight. In addition, there are pizzerias and cafes around where you can have a quick bite to eat.
Palazzo San Giorgio
After refreshing your strength, you can move on to explore the iconic sights of Genoa. Piazza Caricamento is a 5-minute walk from Il Bigot and you can easily find it. Here, the elegant old building of the San Giorgio Palace, decorated with frescoes and sculptures, deserves undoubted attention.
Built in the 13th century, it is not distinguished by overly intricate architecture. But it is precisely this simplicity of lines, combined with exquisite decor, that makes San Giorgio a beautiful, refined building. The graceful coloring of the facade gives it a fabulous look.
The history of the palace is truly amazing and is associated with the names of the great Genoese. Even building material is of historical importance: it was brought from Constantinople, taken from the destroyed embassy of Venice. Initially, the building served as an administrative and political center, then it was used as a prison (14th century).
The famous prisoner in it was Marco Polo, under whose dictation his travel memories were recorded. At 15, the palace housed the bank of the same name, whose client was Columbus himself. Today, the port administration is located in the beautiful palace of the city.
Cathedral of San Lorenzo
Moving further along the coast, you will surely come to the quarters of the Old City. Here, guided by the map, you need to go to via di Scurreria and walk to pl. San Lorenzo, where the cathedral of the same name is located. The main Cathedral of Genoa makes a fascinating impression. From a distance, its upper part seems striped due to the alternation of different colors of marble in the finish. According to rumors, the relics of John the Baptist, the curl of the Mother of God and a copy of the notorious Grail are kept in the cathedral.
The exterior of the temple, which was built in the 3rd century, mixed Gothic, Renaissance and Romanesque styles. But this did not spoil its appearance, but gave it a special originality, beauty and mysterious appeal. The massive staircase around the entire perimeter of the facade, expressive sculptures of lions, and majestic columns will impress you very much. If you want to go inside, admission is free. But the interiors of San Lorenzo do not delight as much as the exterior design. Especially if you have already visited, for example, Roman temples.
Gate of Porta Soprano
Having admired the main cathedral, it is worth going forward 300 meters to find yourself in front of the towers of the ancient gates of Genoa. These are the noble remains of the 2nd fortress wall, built in the 12th century. as a defense against German invaders. The towers, serving as a link between the past and present of the city, are very interesting for their architecture. On the inside, their walls are flat, and on the outside they are rounded. Passing into the arch between them, there is a feeling of some kind of time travel.
The fortress wall was demolished during the period of dense development of Genoa, even a house was built on the arch. The famous Parisian executioner lived in it for several years, who cut off the heads of Louis the 16th, Marie Antoinette and the leaders of the French Revolution. For some time the towers were used as a prison. The name of the gate comes from the word sopra, which means “above”, as it is located on top of a hill. The rest of the gate was restored in the 19th century, when the “new Middle Ages” became fashionable.
House of Christopher Columbus
Almost in the shadow of the Porta Soprana towers, you will see a modest house with dilapidated walls, beautifully entwined with ivy. Its authentic appearance immediately catches the eye, but this is not a genuine building in which Christopher Columbus lived until 1470.
The former was destroyed by French shelling. Although it has not been reliably proven that this is the house of Columbus, they tried to restore the building. The Genoese, who idolize the great countryman, and at the same time tourists are happy to consider the modest building as a haven for the discoverer of America.
You can get inside only by prior arrangement. Or if your visit to Genoa takes place on October 12, World Columbus Day. As in other house-museums, it presents the personal belongings of the navigator, the marine instruments that he used. The territory adjacent to the house is picturesquely decorated, decorated with a pretty colonnade and shady trees. Nearby there is a small trattoria where you can order a full lunch with first courses and appetizers at an affordable price.
Ferrari Square
Moving on, exit to the square. Ferrari is the financial and political “heart” of Genoa. It is located on the border between the historical part of the city and the new business center. The grandiose fountain in the middle and the surroundings of beautiful palace buildings will make you feel that you are in the main square. Until 1887, it was called San Dominica after the church of the same name. During the reconstruction, the church was demolished (1828), and the square was renamed in honor of the patron, the Duke of Ferrari.
The building of the Carlo Felice Opera House appeared on the site of the church. You can easily find it by the beautiful colonnade on the facade and the equestrian monument of Garibaldi. The majestic building was restored for many years after the bombings of 1945 and opened only in 1991.
Directly in front of the fountain is the Doge's Palace, a rather pompous building in yellow and pink colors. You will certainly be interested in the Palazzo Doria de Ferrari Gallera – a complex of 3 buildings of the late 16th century. Now it belongs to the Banco di Roma association. You can not ignore the Ligurian Palace, a classic building with a clock tower on the roof.
Today, the former palace of the General of the Italian Shipping houses the administration of Liguria. Next to it, notice the side facade of the Ducal Palace – one of the symbols of Genoa. The central facade of the palace, erected in the 13th century, overlooks the square. Giacomo Matteoti. After a major restoration, a museum and a palace of culture were opened in it. Here, in the lower halls, fast food establishments are open, where you can enjoy delicious burgers and drink coffee.
Palacci-dei-Rolli
Usually after inspecting the square. Ferrari tourists are heading to the street. Garibaldi (now – Novaya St.), in the quarter where 40 royal palaces are located (Palazzi dei Rolli) Here, next to the Palazzo Rocco, there is a tourist office where you can buy an entrance ticket to 3 museums. Each of the magnificent buildings is a symbol of the aristocratic vanity and ambition of the owners, who sought to outdo their neighbors in luxury.
Luxurious buildings were erected in the 16-17 “Genoese century”, when money flowed like water. Thanks to the competition of the nobility, today we have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of architectural masterpieces. It is impossible to get around all the palaces, so we will focus on 3 of them, in which museums are open. The first of them – the White Palace, built in 1540, was given over to an art gallery.
Walking through its halls, you will see paintings by famous painters. After walking through the courtyard with a garden and a fountain, we go to the Red Palace, located opposite. Art objects are placed in its luxurious halls: paintings, vases, tapestries, and other items that amaze the imagination. Leaving the Palazzo Rosso, opposite you will see the next museum-palace – Palazzo Tursi. Among its exhibits are the Paganini violin and the letters of Columbus – sacred rarities for Italians.
Funicular Santa Anna
We move further along the street, superficially surveying the magnificent buildings, and after 250 m we find ourselves at the Santa Anna funicular. This is the very first lift of the city, which is part of the transport system of Genoa. A ticket (€0.7) is sold from a vending machine installed at the bus stop. For tourists, this is an attraction, and for local residents it is a necessary mode of transport. Therefore, do not be surprised when you find yourself in the company of the Genoese.
In fact, this is an elevator car going up along the rails. It moves rather noisily, rattling like a tram. But the feeling of belonging to the history of Genoa, to its old-timers makes the trip enjoyable. And here we are in the upper city, with its charming gardens, lovely patriarchal courtyards, with steep stairs overgrown with grass. Having examined the picturesque panorama of the “lower tier” from a height, we return to the funicular and walk along the street. Via Roma.
Black Park
Via Roma will lead to the square. Corvetto, and to the left of it is a green oasis – Di Negro Park. In front of the entrance there is a white marble monument dedicated to the famous Italian politician D. Mazzini. Climbing up the serpentine of stairs, you will see a pretty cascading waterfall, small grottoes, aviaries with birds. You will not go unnoticed by the handrails of the stairs, originally made of twigs and branches of trees with the help of cement and plastic.
Sculptures and busts of famous Genoese are placed throughout the park. A wonderful landscape and architectural corner was created at the expense of the Marquis D. C. Di Negro, whose surname became the name of the park. On a hill, to which numerous paths lead, there is a villa. Nearby is the Botanical Garden with wooden gazebos and a waterfall. For some time the villa was given to the Museum of Natural History, and now it houses the David Chiossone Museum of Oriental Art.
Corso Italy
Coming out of the park on the square. Corvetto, take bus number 3 or 18, they run every 15 minutes – in half an hour you will be on Corso Italia. This most beautiful pedestrian seaside street is definitely worth a visit. Crowds of people walk along the wide promenade, very beautifully decorated, rollerblading and cycling. In fact, this is a mini-resort inside Genoa. On one side of the promenade there are beaches, sports grounds, tennis courts, and on the other – chic mansions, villas and various establishments.
The embankment, which arose in the late 40s of the last century, was thoroughly rebuilt in the early 90s of the 21st century. and turned into an elite place. There are wide comfortable benches, gazebos for rest.
Throughout the 2.5 km, the walking strip is paved with tasteful tiles in the form of geometric shapes. It will not be easy to go through the entire embankment, but even the section that you can see will leave a deep impression. By the way, in this piece of paradise there are many various restaurants, cafes and eateries, including Panino Marino, where you can eat something delicious from seafood.
Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno
Not every tourist visiting Genoa visits the Staglieno cemetery. However, it is even difficult to call it this word. Rather, it is a museum of marble sculptures. From Corso Italia you can get to the cemetery by bus N 70, 75, 76, 15, 25, travel time 40-42 minutes. Take your time – the “monument museum” will make a strong impression. Hemingway called Staglieno one of the wonders of the world for a reason. After passing along the high wall forward, turn right around the corner and you will see the entrance.
It leads to a covered gallery, on both sides of which there are sculptural masterpieces. A huge area is occupied by hundreds of marble sculptures, each of which is a work of art. 200 years ago, the authorities of Genoa bought a piece of land on the outskirts of the city, but only in 1844 did the construction of the cemetery begin.
The project was led by the famous Genoese architect Barabino, who never lived to see the opening of the cemetery. Funerary plots are reflected in the monumental statues of the noble Genoese buried here.
All compositional figures amaze with the elegance of the image and the fine skill of the sculptors. The marble faces of the characters express a deep feeling of grief over the loss of a loved one. Staglieno at different times was visited by famous classics of literature, painting, prominent politicians. Coming back on the bus, you will comprehend what you saw all the way.