Genoa is a vast sprawling city that sits in the Gulf of Genoa on the Ligurian Sea in the Northwestern region of Italy.
With a current central population of 588,000 and a greater metropolitan population of 1.5 million, Genoa is the 6th largest city in the country and also one of the most important economic centers. A staple of the city is its immense port and shipyards that have been present since the 19th century. As with many regions in Italy, Genoa has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years and its natural harbor was used by both the Romans and Etruscans. Genoa had a close association with the Holy Roman Empire and was known for its ferocious fleet of sailors and warriors during the Middle Ages.
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1. Piazza De Ferrari
Located in the center of the old town in the Molo district, the Piazza De Ferrari is one of the central points of Genoa and offers a myriad of different sights.
The main feature of the Piazza is the large ornate fountain – This fountain has a series of water jets that spray into a central basin and forms a lovely symmetrical shape and cascade of water.
Surrounding a fountain are a number of important buildings including the Palace of the Doges, the Carlo Felice Theatre, the Genoa stock exchange and the Palace of the Duke of Galleria.
Admire the different buildings and 19th-century architecture, throw a coin into the fountain or site and watch the locals go about their business. Alternatively, there are several small restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating to relax in.
2. Porta Soprana
Genoa is known for its once expansive city wall – over the years, the walls were expanded and enclosed much of the city, in fact, they were the longest city walls in Italy. Part of this bygone area still stands today in the form of the Porta Soprana gatehouse and towers.
These two towers are only a short walk from the Piazza De Ferrari and are easily visible from many parts of the city. Flanking the arched gateway, the two towers are circular and topped with crenulations and provide a wonderful photographic opportunity.
3. Piazza Matteotti
Although situated right next to the Piazza De Ferrari, the Piazza Matteotti is a wonderful location in its own right and features a range of historical buildings and sights. Doges Palace sits at one of the squares and is a truly opulent building framed by a series of stone columns, whilst at the other end sits the fabulous San Lorenzo Cathedral.
Furthermore, markets are often held here and you can pick up a great bargain after haggling with the locals. Finally, there is also the Church of Saint Ambrogio which is a fantastic building which an ornate interior.
4. San Lorenzo Cathedral
More commonly known as Genoa Cathedral, the church of San Lorenzo is a fantastic building and is often overlooked. The architecture is reminiscent of Florence Cathedral and features a similar striped marble and stone front façade – The colors are fantastic with greens, pinks, blacks, and whites.
Created in 1118, this church has stood for hundreds of years and its interior is truly awe-inspiring. Inside, the ceiling is immensely decorated with frescos and beautifully colored artwork.
Furthermore, the pink marble columns frame the central altar perfectly. Furthermore, there are also some magnificent paintings including the Martyrdom of St. Lawrence by Lazzaro Tavarone.
5. Genoa Aquarium
Located next to the Piazza Carciamento in the main harbor area, the Aquarium is a brilliant location for all the family. Contained within this building is a myriad of different marine life including varieties of fishes, sharks, dolphins, turtles, and Jellyfish.
Two central themes are creatures of the Ligurian Sea (the sea that Genoa harbor extends onto) and the environment of the North Atlantic Ocean.
All of the displays and tanks are well maintained and spacious, and the environments have been recreated faithfully to give the animals everything they need in terms of climate and habitation.
6. Genoa Maritime Museum
As Genoa was a major naval power during the 16th-19th century; it stands to reason that the city should contain one of the largest Maritime museums in Europe. This museum is a truly interesting and insightful place and contains four floors of historical artifacts, reconstructions, and displays.
One room contains a display of various globes and atlases from different time periods, whilst another hosts a reconstructed galley ship. Alternatively, rooms on the second floor feature reproductions of shipwrecks and a myriad of naval instruments.
Furthermore, an Italian military Submarine resides in the adjacent dock and tours are provided of this fantastic vessel.
7. Forte Begato
This hillside fort is located in the northern regions of Genoa and has a commanding position on top of a large mountain. Created in 1818, this relatively modern fort complex acted as a defensive structure for many years until its importance declined and it fell into disuse.
The main part of the complex is the large central barracks that used to house over 300 soldiers and a range of artillery platforms. During WW2, the fort was used as a prison for POW’s but now is closed to the public.
Although you cannot enter the building, it is still a fascinating place to visit and the hike to the top of the plateau is great for any outdoor enthusiast. Furthermore, the views from the top are breath-taking and you can see the city of Genoa sprawled out before your eyes.
8. Via Garibaldi
A UNESCO listed World Heritage Site; the Via Garibaldi is one of the most important streets in Genoa and is famous for its large amount of palaces and fine architecture. Notable buildings include the Palazzo Bianco, the Palazzo Rosso, the Palazzo Doria Tursi, the Palazzo Lomelino and the Palazzo Pantaleo.
This narrow street provides a staggering amount of fantastic architecture and the most notable building is possible the Palazzo Rosso which features a bright red/orange façade.
Three of these palaces are open to the public – Rosso, Bianco, and Tursi and offer a great insight into the history of Genoa together with a range of wonderful artifacts and art collections.
9. Genoa Harbour
The immense harbor of Genoa stretches for 22km of coastline and is home to a large number of docks and ports for commercial, recreational and pleasure purposes. This harbor offers a huge amount of potential for tourism and includes a myriad of bars, restaurants, and museums.
Consider spending some time walking through the various harbors to see the variety of ships, or visit the maritime museum or aquarium.
At the central point of the harbor network to the left of the bay is also the fantastic Lanterna di Genoa which is a large 76m tall lighthouse that has stood since the 1100s in some form.
10. Museo d’Arte Orientale
Located near the Piazza del Portello in the center of Genoa in the center of the Villetta di Negro Park, the Museum of Oriental art offers something different to the standard contemporary art museums of most cities.
Within the confines of this inviting structure is one of Europe’s largest collections of oriental and Asian art.
The exhibitions are split into various categories that cover different eras and contain a variety of works including Ming sculptures, Buddhist sculptures, and a range of well-preserved Japanese armor and weapons.
Finally, there is also a collection of Asian paintings and bronze theatrical objects. This museum really provides a great insight into Eastern culture and art.
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