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 A port filled with things to do and see |
Ponte Spinola Area Porto Antico Genoa 16128 Italy |
The layout of the whole area and the various architectural constructions in the Old Port, among which is the now famous Aquarium which was built by Renzo Piano for the international Expo of 1992 in commemoration of the 5th centenary of the discovery of America, have now become a perfect example of the coexistence of old buildings and modern edifices. The salvaging and refurbishment of the historic port and of the old town centre nearby, have all helped in the re-establishment of the tourist trade within the city. The new "marinaro" area is constantly brought to life through sound, light and color and has various attractions dedicated to free time and culture. Therefore, Genoa is no longer solely a city of art, but also a seaside town offering child-size fun and relaxation. If one enters from the main entrance in piazza Caricamento, the first thing to be seen is the large profile of the Acquario di Genova, the largest one in Europe, which resembles a large ship moored on the dock at Ponte Spinola, from which extends a splendid pathway, the Via del Mare, which leads straight to the "floating" Piazza del Mare. Other places of interest are the Galleon (used by Roman Polansky in the film "the Pirates"), the buildings of the Cotton Stores (Cineplex, modern multiscreen, Cinemotion in 3 D, Video games, the great Music Store, the Città dei Bambini, la De Amicis Library, the Padiglione del Mare e della Navigazione), the original Museo Nazionale dell'Antartide "Felice Ippolito", housed in the Millo, and even the imposing Porta Siberia (o del Molo), with the nearby pool-theatre, the Mandraccio and various commercial outlets, as well as the cafés and the restaurants. During the winter months the Piazza delle Feste has an ice-skating rink, while during the summer various concerts and plays are held there. A must is a trip on the Bigo, the rotating panoramic lift which offers a view over the entire city. The 16th and 17th century buildings of the Deposito Franco have been carefully restored and are now the headquarters for Porto Antico S.p.A, the management and operating company for the whole complex. They also house the Tourist Information Office, where one can obtain up to the minute news of events being organized within the area where the expo was once held. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rachael&Andrew |
 Photo: Fabrizio Fazzari |
 Photo: Mia aiM |
 Photo: Ciccio Pizzettaro  |
 Photo: Luca Caridà |
 Photo: Yonker |
 Photo: James Manners |
 Photo: Luca - Italy |
 Church of England |
Distacco di Piazza Marsala, 3 Genoa 16122 Italy |
This Neo-medieval church stands a short way from the Parco di Villetta di Negro and from Piazza Corvetto. For entry into the English Church of the Holy Ghost it is advisable to call. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Examinations under the frescoes |
Via Balbi, 4 Genoa 16126 Italy +39 0102099705 |
Built between 1618-20 to the designs of the architect Bartolomeo Bianco, this building houses several of the departments of the University's Faculty of Literature and Philosophy. The palazzo was planned with two floors of equal elegance, frescoed by D. Piola, V. Castello, G. and L. De Ferrari, D. Fiasella, since the two investors, Giacomo and Pantaleo Balbi, wanted to express the same level of prestige and opulence. The garden was established in the mid 17th century, finished off by the addition of a beautiful pond full of water lilies, which has been recently restored. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Defender of the city |
Via del Peralto Genoa 16136 Italy |
This dramatic fortress stands over the city, 475metres above sea level. It is one part of the Forte Sperone together with the Forte Castellaccio. Genova depended on this trio of forts to defend it. Built by Sheban military genius between 1819 and 1823, the Begato fort could hold 840 soldiers and 41,000 kg. of munitions in the powder store. It has a rectangular barracks, with robust buttresses on the corners and a large 'recinto a fuso'. At present this is the only fort which is involved in restoration works. The fort will host a museum of the history of Genovese fortifications and a history of music. There will also be a centre about the monitoring and safeguard of the territory. From the fort, there is a fantastic view of the historical city, the Polcevera valley and the western coast with its modern docks. For more information you should ask at the Comune di Genova City desk 2p-3p M-F. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A terrace overlooking the city |
Piazza Portale (via public lift) Genoa 16125 Italy |
This is the best picture-postcard view of Genoa to be had. This extraordinary vantage point 80m above ground is situated in the elegant Castelletto area. From this ruin of the "castelletto" which was demolished in the middle of the last century one can have a view over the rooftops, the bell towers, the hanging gardens, the old port and the Lanterna. The best way to reach it is via the public lift in piazza Portale, which was described as the best route "verso il Paradiso" - to heaven- by the poet G. Caproni. The lift's terminal is an elegant art-nouveau tower, which is one of the loveliest examples of this style in the city. It is a little known fact that the old reservoirs, which collected the water deriving from the ancient aqueduct crossing the Valbisagno, can be found underneath this ruin. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Exotic plants among the tiled roofs |
Corso Dogali, 1c Genoa 16136 Italy |
This garden was established in 1803 at the wishes of Domenico Viviani, the cardinal of the cathedral of Botany and Natural History at the university of Genova, in the gardens of the ancient Jesuit college there is a large collection of medicinal plants, interesting species of trees, including many cypresses, a large sequoia and a Lebanese cedar. The Botanical garden currently extends over an area of around a hectare, spreading its exotic vegetation over six terraces, while in the greenhouses diverse natural habitats have been recreated with examples of aquatic and tropical plants as well as many other varieties. Different routes through the garden are suggested according to what you wish to discover among the varied aspects of this plant kingdom. Guided tours are organised through the Coop. Progetto Gias. (booking required); they run every day for groups of 18-30; for smaller groups book on the first or second Sunday of the month. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dance at the fort |
Località Righi Genoa 16136 Italy |
The Castellacio is Genova's oldest military garrison. It is 360 metres above sea level, just behind some of the hilly districts of the city. The castellacio was originally set up in 1319 as part of the theatre of war between the Guelfi and the Ghibellini. Subsequently it was modified for use as a barracks and a powder store. It took its present shape as an independent fortified stronghold in 1823-26 when it was connected to the Sperone fort. The octagonal tower inside the courtyard was erected in 1820 and was subsequently used as a prison and a place for hangings (the Agony Gate road led here...). At present, the tower is used by the Navy as a centre to collect meteorological data. The rest of the fort has been converted into trattarias and discos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Japanese art |
Piazzale Mazzini, 1 Genoa 16122 Italy |
The building which houses this museum was built specifically by the architect Mario Labò in 1971. It stands in a splendid panoramic position inside the Parco di Villetta di Negro. This is the most important Italian collection of its kind, and it includes almost 15,000 items. The collection was put together by the engraver and patron Edoardo Chiossone during his 23 years in Japan. While there he witnessed the fall of the feudal regime after 700 years of rule and the start of the process of the modernisation of the country. With an unusual amount of attention for that period he began to study and eventually acquist many works of art, accumulating a huge collection of historically and artistically valuable works of art. The exhibition, which is probably visited more by Japanese tourists than the Genoese, is displayed in two large rooms dedicated to Buddhist sculpture from Eastern Asia and in five galleries linked by stairs forming a contiuous path. On exhibition you can see armour, weapons, Samurai equipment, archeological finds from Japan, wooden sculptures, theatre masks, varnishes, ceramics, porcellain, paintings, and prints. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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An old refuge for crusaders and pilgrims |
Piazza della Commenda, 1 Genoa 16126 Italy +39 10 26 5486 |
This building was founded around 1000AD as a hospital, or as a refuge for the crusaders who had been sent to the Holy land. Afterwards, it became a shelter for pilgrims going to Jerusalem or Santiago di Compostela. It is attached to the neighbouring Church of Giovanni di Pre'". The three level open gallery gives the building its character. The "Commenda" has kept some of its medieval features. There are spherocubical headbands on the ground floor. On the middle floor there is 15th century wooden flooring which is decorated with prints. On the third floor there are wonderful frescoes with battle insignia and coats of arms from the nobility, as well as the part of the building which belonged to the apartment of the Knight commander. It's interesting to note that up until 1731 people could only go into the two churches of S.Giovanni through the Commenda. This was administered by the Jerusalemite Knights (and from 1420 by the Knights of the Order of Malta). It has never been understood however what criteria were needed to be allowed admittance into each of the churches. (perhaps it was divided by gender, or, more probably, according to the wealth of the pilgrim). Visits are possible on special occasions and by appointment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Museum in a neogothic castle |
Corso Dogali, 18 Genoa 16136 Italy +39 10 557 4720 http://www.comune.genova.it/tu... |
It is housed inside the Neogothic Castle built between 1886 and 1892 for Capitan E. D'Albertis by the architects M.A. Crotta and G. Campora. The capitan donated it to the city on his death together with the ethnographical, archeological, and marine collections that he had put together during his many journeys to Africa, the Americas, and Oceania. It bears witness to the fashion for romantic gardens in this period which were particularly popular in Genoa. When the museum reopens it will again be possible to visit the Captain's residence with its Colombian room, the gothic room, the Turkish lounge, the reconstruction of the ship's cabin, the 11 sundials built by him in the castle, and the photographs of the further 100 which he built around the world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roberto Bordieri |
 Photo: Roberto Bordieri |
 Photo: www.rlieh.com |
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The prince has returned to Genova |
Via San Benedetto, 2 Genoa 16126 Italy |
This palazzo, one of the most magnificent in the entire city, was built for Andrea Doria in the 16th century; interestingly, his descendants have recently taken up residency once more. It was built outside the city walls as an autonomous estate, endowed with its own private port, and a vast terraced garden spreading behind it. The palazzo was conceived as a celebration of the greatness of Andrea himself and Carlo V of Spain, with whom the admiral had close ties. Thanks to the artwork of Perin del Vaga, a painter of Roman extraction, and to the sculptures of T. Carlone and G. A. Montorsoli, this residence-museum, which still retains its original furnishings and paintings as selected by Doria and his heir, Giovanni Andrea, this palazzo represents one of the greatest achievements of 16th century architecture in Genova. It is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Not to be missed are the entirely frescoed Gallery of the Heroes, the Room of the Giants with its splendid fireplace, the Zodiac Room and above all the Gallery, where the rich tapestries depicting the Battle of Lepanto (1571) hang, commissioned by Giovanni Andrea from the Brussels school, based on cartoons prepared by L. Cambiaso and L. Calvi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Colombus and Paganini in town |
Via Garibaldi, 9 Genoa 16124 Italy +39 10 55 7111 |
Located midway along the Via Garibaldi, this building outdoes all the other palazzi on the Strada Nuova in terms of its monumentality and size, occupying a space three times as large as all the rest. It is a great example of a Renaissance Genovese palazzo, designed by G. and D. Ponzello in the mid 16th century for Niccolò Grimaldi, known as the "Monarca" on account of his immense fortune. After Grimaldi's financial ruin, the palazzo was acquired by Giovanni Andrea Doria, the Duke of Tursi, and nephew to the great Admiral. The interesting facade, with stonework by Finale and grotesques by T. Carlone, the impressive entrance stairway, the galleried hall, the two side hanging gardens have all made this a wonderful location for the Genovese town council. Inside, in the Syndicate Office, there are several letters signed by Colombus: the "Codice dei privilegi" conceded to the explorer by Spanish royal command, and an urn containing some of his ashes, found in Santo Domingo in 1887. In addition, there is the famous Paganini violin, a Guarnieri del Gesù from 1742, which is played once a year by the winner of the competition for young violinists, the "Premio Paganini", which takes place in October along with the celebrations for Colombus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frances Forsyth |
 Photo: Alex Gambaro |
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The gate to the old city |
Via del Campo Via delle Fontane Genoa 16124 Italy |
This gate corresponds in appearance to the Porta Soprana or of S.Andrea (XII secolo), (12th century). It was the main western access to the city, near the now destroyed St. Faith's church. Built at the same time as the walls to defend the city from invasion by the Barbarossa forces, it consists of two semi-circular towers, linked by a crenellated arch with sharp curves. In the eighteenth century these features were incorporated into the neighboring buildings. The name "Vacca" (cow) has a determined origin: it refers to the family who once lived there. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A sundial cannot be slow |
Salita San Francesco, 4 Piazza della Meridiana Genoa 16124 Italy |
This palazzo was built in the first half of the sixteenth century on the edge of the official 'historic centre', in an area which, after the advent of the nearby Strada Nuova, today the Via Garibaldi, would become extrememly prestigious. The choice of location and the magnificence of the building testify to the extraordinary wealth and foresight of the owner, G.B. Grimaldi, who like his contemporary Andrea Doria, adhered to the architectural models of Rome. Visitors once described it as "fit for a prince". However, the modifications carried out in the eighteenth century changed and deadened the entire building, through both superficial alterations, such as opening of the lower gardens onto the Via Nuovissima (now Via Cairoli), and more structural changes, in particular the addition of a covered terrace, designed by G. Brusco. At the beginning of the twentieth century Coppedé radically transformed the interior, covering the courtyard with a liberty skylight and altering the decoration in several rooms. After having been employed to several different ends (military hospital, Lloyd Sabaudo, College of music and various educational functions) it currently houses several council offices. The intruiging name given to both the palazzo and the piazza comes from the large sundial painted on the façade in the eighteenth century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The history of advertising in a museum |
Piazza Principe, 4/3 sc. B Genoa 16126 Italy +39 10 275 8934 |
Located within the Palazzo Doria Pamphily "del Principe", this collection houses sketches, posters and other material from the second half of the nineteenth century till today, as well as various tools used in the advertising sector, radio and television. From headed paper to posters, and from the carousel to video clips. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A patron for the poor and the sick |
Piazzale E. Brignole Genoa 16125 Italy +39 10 2 4451 |
The building stands in a dominant position at the top of an impressive stairway and its imposing façade is unmistakable due to the large Genoese coat-of-arms (a red cross on a white background). It was built between the beginning and the middle of the seventeenth century under the patronage of Emanuele Brignole as one of the first charitable institution for the emerging poor in Italy. The quadrangular building has four courtyards which pivot around a church in the shape of a Greek cross. This allowed the various groups of sick people to follow the religious services from every part of the institution as they were divided according to sex and social position. Part of the building is currently used for long-term patients, and another part houses the Faculty of Political sciences. The large extent of land to the rear contains several nurseries and greenhouses. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A Genovese synagogue |
Via Bertora 6 Genoa 16122 Italy +39 10 839 1513 |
Located in the residential area of Castelletto, near the nineteenth century Via Assarotti, It represents the main point of reference for the genovese Jewish community. The synagogue was built in a byzantine style in 1935, designed by F. Morando, and is only the most recent of the Jewish centres in the city. The first records of a Jewish community in Genoa date infact from Medieval times, as the toponymic "Piazza degli Ebrei", a little corner of the historic centre near the Porta dei Vacca (o di S.Fede), bears witness. To visit the synagogue, or to attend services you should contact the secretary before Friday morning. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Genoa and Samp as rivals in the world stadium |
Via Del Piano Genoa Italy |
Rebuilt by the Gregotti studios for the 1990 football world cup, the new stadium is an architectural structure which energetically resolves the engineering problem posed by the covered stands. Located in the Marassi district, the stadium is rather at odds with its densely built-up surroundings. Today, the city has two main teams, Genoa, founded by a group of English players in 1893, the first football club in Italy, and Sampdoria, born out of the Sampierdarenese and Andrea Doria union. The two annual matches fire the enthusiasm of the respective fans, creating extraordinary scenes - a real show alongside the official show. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hop-Frog |
 Photo: Fabio Baiardini |
 Photo: gunther70 |
 Photo: Enrico ! |
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A neo-medieval castle in the Genoese hills |
Via Cabella, 15 Genoa 16122 Italy |
This castle was built by the Florentine architect G. Coppode' between 1896 and 1904 for the Scottish insurance broker E. Mackenzie. Well-built and picturesque, its towers, trenches, draw bridges, mosaics, pictures and elegant decoration in wrought iron all make it an eclectic work of art. It is a mixture of past styles such as medieval, early Tuscan Renaissance as well as pure Art Nouveau. After being abandoned in 1986 the castle passed into the hands of the American Mitchell Wolfson Jr, who took on its restoration to house the Italian headquarters for the Wolfsonian Foundation, a rich collection of over 7000 works of art dating from 1885 till 1945. A lot of attention is given to the applied arts as well as architecture. This collection is currently held elsewhere in anticipation of being moved. Visits by appointment only. Free consultation. The library includes a vast collection of futurist material as well as a whole section dedicated to Italian architectural and urban planning between 1920 and 1945. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Melanie Martinez |
 Photo: Melanie Martinez |
 Photo: Alexandra Müller |
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The whole of Genoa in a nativity scene |
Salita della Madonnetta, 5 Genoa 16136 Italy |
The sanctuary of S. M. Assunta, familiarly known as "la Madonetta" by the Genovese, rises on the hillside in the Castellano area. Built by the Augustinians before 1696, designed by A. M. Ricca, it owes its name to the revered statue by Gagini (15th century), today standing on the main altar. The altar stands beyond an octagonal sacrestry with typical black and white mosaic flooring. It consists of a single octagonal space with six side chapels. It is one of the most popular sacrestries in the city because of the beautiful nativity scene in the crypt. It is a 17th-18th century collection by Maragliano and his school. Open all year round, it is popular with many of the faithful who are drawn by the splendid carved ligurian figures, standing in a picturesque reconstruction of medieval Genoa. The city's main areas and monuments (St. Matthew, the Lanterna, the cathedral) frame these traditional craftsmen's stalls (knife-grinders, blacksmiths, butchers, fishmongers, bakers). Mass: Weekdays: 5pm (winter), 5.30pm (summer). Sunday and holidays: 9am, 11am, 5pm (winter), 5.30pm (summer). Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Renaissance artefacts |
Via Lomellini, 11 Genoa 16124 Italy +39 10 20 7553 |
This museum is located in Via Lomellini, in the house where Giuseppe Mazzini was born. It is part of the Istituto Mazzianico complex. The museum was set up in 1915, and is spread over three floors, in which thousands of documents and Renaissance relics are displayed in chronological order. These include signatures, manifestoes, prints, paintings, uniforms, flags, and weapons which belonged to famous people. It has a specialised library which collects works from the second half of the 18th century to today, these include the first known portrait of Garibaldi and a printed edition of the national amthem with noted by Mameli. Admission: Free entry for school children (booking is necessary), under 18's, and over 60's. On Sundays it is free for everyone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Museum of peasant life |
Salita al Garbo, 47 Genoa 16159 Italy +39 10 740 1243 |
This museum was founded in 1983, and is housed in a late 18th century villa in the quiet countryside near Garbo. It is one of the most recently founded Genoese museums. In the two rooms on the top floor various agricultural implements are on display, as well as captions and photgraphs which illustrate the cultivation cycles of the vines, the olives, the chestnuts, and the traditional occupations of the Ligurian peasantry including aspects of family and religious life. The museum also houses a vast store of documentation on the organisation of rural residences and on regional folklore. It contains a huge tape collection containing spoken or sung recordings of peasant life - the extraordinary vitality of the peasant culture in the past emerges from these. Admission: Free for school children (it is necessary to book), under 18's and over 60's. It is free for everyone on Sunday's. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Church built in 1262 |
Via Brignole De Ferrari, 7 Genoa 16125 Italy +39 10 251 2391 |
This church was built in 1262 not far from the Chiesa della SS.Annunziata del Vastato. It sits, with its adjoining convent, at the centre of a popular suburb, just outside the twelfth century bastions, and belongs to the mendicant Carmelite order. Even though it was extended in the 15th and 16th centuries, this church retains most of its original gothic form, characterized by the pointed arches, the flying buttresses and the square apse. It is the last example in the city of what was a popular style, which was later substituted because of liturgical needs. It has recently been renovated and houses several interesting works of art by G.B. Carlone, B. Castello, and D. Piola, some of which have been recovered from the church of S. Agnese which was destroyed. The Salita S.Bartolomeo del Carmine leads from the apse to the convent and has now been turned into houses. From here one can go back to the church via the Salita di Carbonara, passing through the small village of Carmine. This part of the city has retained the old street names linked with the grocers stalls which used to be situated here, such as piazza della Giuggiola, vico Zucchero, vico Fragola, vico del Cioccolatte. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 A waterfall in the heart of Genova |
Piazzale Mazzini Genoa 16122 Italy +39 10 54 2285 |
The rich vegetation of this green space in the heart of the city once framed the neoclassical villa built there by the Marquis Di Negro, designed by C. Barabino. This villa was renowned for the international artistic coterie of painters and writers by which it was frequented (including D'Azeglio, Manzoni, Stendhal and Dickens), as well as serving as a meeting place for patriots and politicans of the time, in particular Mazzini. The villa, destroyed by bombing in the last war, was replaced in 1971 by a modern building, designed by the architect M. Labò, and it houses the Museo di Arte Orientale E. Chiossone. The park covers about two hectares, and was the site of the city's first botanical garden in 1780, and then of the first zoological garden. The path leading to the top of the hill weaves between imposing specimens of exotic plants, including palm trees, Lebanese cedars, camphors and sequoias, crossing playful fountains, lakes with swans and ducks, aviaries of birds, evocative artificial grottoes and the breathtaking waterfall, a fairytale feature in an urban context, as favoured by the taste of the age. The highest areas of the park, with its well established pine trees and an attractive fishpond yields a memorable view over nineteenth century Genova. Access to the gardens is through Piazza Mazzini (above Piazza Corvetto) from Via Martin Piaggio and the Dinegro hill. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniele Gallesio |
 Photo: Daniele Gallesio |
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The whole of Genoa in one glance |
Near Piazza Balvedere G. Caproni Genoa, Genoa 16136 Italy +39 (0)10 57 6791 (Tourist Information) |
Asending on the red Righi cable car, up from the noisy traffic of the Largo Zecca, after a twenty minute underground journey, it is incredibly exciting to see the city open out into the wonderful panorama which can be appreciated from the terrace near the cable car stop. From the Piazza Balvedere G. Caproni, at a height of about 300m above sea-level, there is quite an amazing view: the whole of Genoa can be seen, spreading into the bay between Mount Portofino and Capo Noli. With your back to the port, you can see the mountains and the old fortifications of the Richelieu fortress extending to the sea, the distant Forte Ratti, while in the foreground stands the Forte Castellaccio, built by the Guelfs in the fourteenth century. A little way beyond the Forte Sperone (built in the eighteenth century, and without doubt the most fascinating and well-preserved of all the forts), you can make out the far-away, solitary Forte Puin and Forte Diamante. The city lies below; you can see the Valbisagno area which slopes up almost to the height of the forts. Then, following the line of the hillside, you should recognise opposite you a large 1970's building, known as the "Biscione", and in the valley below the modern Stadio L. Ferraris, rebuilt for the 1990 World Cup football, can also be seen. Nearby, the large Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno lies alongside the flowing Bisagno. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alessandro Orsolino |
 Photo: Paolo Dorigatti |
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The church hidden by the Carmelites |
Piazza S.Anna, 8 Genoa 16125 Italy |
This charming church located in a small hidden square, was built in 1584 for the Barefoot Carmelites. It is not far from Corso Magenta in the elegant Castelletto area. The S. Anna steps leading up to the church with its hut-style roof and its simple facade, once covered in frescoes. From one side it blocks off the row of buildings across the cobbled square, from where the Salita Bachernia (one of the most picturesque trails, which lead along the ridges between the old city and the hills behind) begins. The church has several interesting works of art by F. Schiaffino, T. Orsolino e D. Fiasella. Its convent has recently been restored and still retains the old furniture form the Friars Pharmacy and the old library. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A crowded 18th century church |
Via Lomellini, 12 Genoa 16123 Italy +39 10 246 5426 |
This church was begun in 1674 with a donation from the nobleman Camillo Pallavicino and was completed in 1725, Pallavicino wanted to facilitate the entry into Genova of the Priests of the Oratory. Together with the adjoining convent and the Oratorio di S Filippo Neri, it is an extremely important Baroque construction which lays testimony to the emergence of late borromean culture in Genoa. The façade is concave and only the portal, decorated by the sculptor P Bocciardo, was entirely finished: the rest was left with rather rough and ready finish. The internal walls are entirely covered in frescoes by various artists such as A M Haffner, J A Boni, M Franceschini. It must be said that this is one of the most visited churches in the historical city centre because of the charismatic approach and high moral example that many of the priests, mostly Polish, here have. It is not rare to have to queue up in the afternoons to have a one to one talk with them. Open: 8a-noon, 3p-7p M-Su. Service times: Sa 6:30p, Su 8a, 9a, 11a. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Concerts under the frescoes |
Via Lomellini 10 Genoa 16123 Italy |
Next to the Chiesa di S.Filippo Neri, the oratory can be accessed from either number 10 Via Lomellini or directly from the sacrestry of the church. Built between 1749 and 1755 as a place for quiet meditation, it is incorporated into the convent of the Padri Filippini, the façade of which was moved. It was perhaps designed by G B Montaldo: the floors are elliptical with choir pews around the walls, banisters, and finely crafted walnut arches which, together with the doors and the large shutters at the windows, constitute admirable examples of Genovese baroque. The ceiling is completely covered in golden stucco with a coloured background. Both this and the frescoed apse are the work of J. A. Boni, with paintings by G. Diavolo. Not to be missed is the painting of St. Philip in ecstasy, by the Flemmish artist S. Dubois, and above all the magnificent statue of the Immaculate Conception (1670) by P. Puget, who also created the famed altar of the nearby Abbazia di S.Siro and many other works in Genova. In addition to its role as a convent, the oratory once functioned as a Public Institute of Music, then as a school, but today is a much loved auditorium for classical concerts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beautiful frescoes in 13th-century palace |
Piazza Caricamento Via Frate Oliverio Genoa 16124 Italy |
The palazzo was the seat of the city's power at the time it was built, between 1260-62. It was then transformed into a customs office, housing the powerful St. George's Bank for four centuries, before it moved to its current location at the Autorità Portuale. It consists of two distinct parts, of which the medieval element was restored by d'Andrade in the 19th century, while the lively frescoes in the 16th-century wing have been only recently cleaned and restored, according to the original designs. Inside, apart form the beautiful 17th-century statue of the Virgin Mary in the courtyard, it is worth noting the momument to Francesco Vivaldi, the rich 14th-century merchant who invented the moltiplico (modern cumulative interest) and the five marble chests (one for each bank office) in which the so called lettere orbe, or anonymous indications of the malfunctioning of the various offices, were put. The Venetian Marco Polo was a prisoner of the Republic of Genova, dictated his famous "Milione" here, to Rustichello form Pisa. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Massimo Strazzeri |
 Photo: www.locomotivagroup.net |
 Photo: Tim Brown |
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A pilgrim church |
Piazza della Commenda, 1 Genoa 16126 Italy |
This church is connected to the neighbouring Pre' insignia building. Building work was begun in 1180 with pre-Lamica masters, a fact which is commemorated by a plaque on the wall. It has recently been restored by the Ministry for cultural heritage. There are two churches, one of which stands over the other which are mutually independent from one another. The smaller church, with three naves, occupies the central nave of the larger one. This has a splendid Romanesque belltower with three levels of three-light windows and a pyramid-shaped spire. There has been an entrance in the apse of the larger church since 1731 when the Knights of the Order of Malta allowed entry to the more civilised members of the public. The inner church is intimate and quiet. It contains the remains of an important series of frescoes that have recently been brought to light. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesca Albini |
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A small church for two big families |
Piazza S.Luca Genoa 16124 Italy |
The church was built in 1188 as the family chapel of the Spinola and Grimaldi families. It stands on the lively Via S.Luca. This was the main western point of entry to the city in the fourteenth century. The church's importance and its strategic position has been emphasised by the fact that the dispute between the two rival families for the exclusive control of the building had to be settled by the King of Aragon in the middle of the fourteenth century. The church was rebuilt in its present form between 1626 and 1650. It was a project of Carlo Mutone. One of the few pure Baroque style churches in the city, it is decorated with a single series of frescoes by D.Piola which date back to the end of the seventeenth century. It contains a valuable wooden Christ figure by F.Parodi which was painted by D.Piola. There are other works of art including an important piece by Grechetto of a creche. The parish has started a nice new initiative which aims to help people to get to know the old city. As well as the normal church services, it now celebrates a special "Tourist and City visitor Mass". Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The church of the knights of Malta |
Piazza S Pancrazio Genoa 16124 Italy |
Small noble church of the Pallavicini family. It was already in existence in the eleventh century and was rebuilt in a late baroque style by A.M.Ricca after it suffered naval bombardment by Luigi XIV (1684). It contains many valuable works of art, including rare stuccoes, frescoes in the apse by J.A.Boni and a marble altar piece by G.A. Ponsonelli with an antependium and statue of St.Pancreas by F.Parodi. There is also a statue of the Madonna of Charity by F.M.Schiaffino. The wonderful Flemish triptych is of particular note; painted by A.Ysenbrant, it dates back to the early 16th century and shows the life of St.Pancrea. The complex was entrusted to the Order of Knight of Malta in 1976. They have organised a multipurpose surgery in the adjacent monastic buildings. Open: 4p-6p Sa. By appointment for groups-always telephone first. Service times: Weekdays 5p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The main cathedral of the city |
Piazza San Siro Genoa 16124 Italy |
Built in the 4th century as the first cathedral of the city, it was dedicated to the 12 apostles. In 1008 it became a Benedictine Abbey and the current architectural layout dates from the beginning of the 17th century, after a fire in 1580 destroyed a large part of the structure. The neoclassical facade houses a church with three naves, frescoed vaults and stucco which is the work of various members of the Carlone family, including Taddeo, Giuseppe, Tommaso and Giovanni Battista. As well as works by D. Fiasella, G. De Ferrari and D. Piola, there is also the beautiful painting of the Annunciation here by O. Gentileschi and the splendid main altar, in black and bronze marble, which is a baroque masterpiece by Pierre Puget in 1670. The Roman belltower of the cathedral can be spotted in old pictures of Genoa, but it was pulled down as it was deemed to be unstable after the collapse of the belltower of S. Marco in Venice in 1904 and was unfortunately never rebuilt. The old, adjacent cloister, can not be visited and was transformed at the beginning of the century into public baths and sauna, according to art nouveau style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bernd Zillich |
 Photo: Tim Brown |
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The Maddalena area |
Piazza della Maddalena Genoa 16124 Italy |
At the end of the sixteenth century, this ancient church was completely restructured. Andrea Ceresola, the "Vannone", changed the building and then modified the interior. The name of the church, Maddalena, has also been given to the surrounding street, piazza and district. According to folklore, the name could have other connotations other than those of the name of the church and its saint; the "oldest profession" in the world has always been practiced in this area. There is the monastery of the Somaschi fathers which has been changed into houses. Next to it, the church is fronted by a recently constructed gateway. Inside there are vaults which are frescoed by S.Galeotti and S.Betti. Have a look at the four marble statues of Virtue (c.1300) and the rare fifteenth century wooden crucifix. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beauty in Genova |
Piazza della Nunziata, 4 Genoa 16124 Italy |
This church was originally built in late gothic style by the Franciscan monks on the foundations of an earlier church. The noble Lomellini family who made their fortune trading in coral then renovated it between 1591 and 1650. It is built in the shape of a Latin cross and divided into three naves with two rows of lateral altars. This church has been called a 17th century Genoese Gallery because of its lavish interiors of inlayed marble, gilt stucco, and frescoes illustrating the mysteries of the Annunciation, all created by a selection of 23 local artists and 13 sculptors (such as G.and G.B. Carlone, D. Fiasella, A. Ansaldo, G. Assereto and G. Benso). Moreover, there are works of art by D. Piola, G. De Ferrari, L. Cambiaso, B. Strozzi, G.C. Procaccini and others still. The strange name Vastato comes from vastinium, a safety belt within the protective bastions that was left free during medieval times for military purposes. In fact the Barbarossa belt, dating back to 1155-61 sits directly opposite the church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fort summer shows |
Via del Peralto Genoa 16136 Italy |
The Sperone fort is the most impressive and remarkable of the Genovese fort. It was also one of the most important strategically. It was built at the peak of the 1663 'new walls' as the key-point of the nineteenth century fortifications. The fort was started in 1747 and strengthened by Brusco up to 1794. During the Napoleonic period it was enlarged. The Sperone fort owes it present appearance to the restoration works which were carried out by the Sardinian government between 1815 and 1827. The entire structure has a very interesting scenic look thanks to its very varied and complex architecture. The Savoy crest of arms is above the entrance. The entrance is protected by a moat and a very strong door. There is also a very interesting powder store in the lower part of the fort, the central barrack building and a beautiful chapel. On a clear day, the view is fantastic: you can see the valley of Polceverea, the Bisagno Valley and the stretch of the Appenines from the Park at Monte Beigua up to Monte Antola. For several years now, during the summer, the fort, with its hundred rooms, has been the site of a charming and unusual series of theatre shows and other displays. For further information contact the comune di Genova - city desk- 2p-3p M-F. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Puggioni |
 Photo: Andrea Puggioni |
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Seekers of immortality |
Piazzale Resasco Genoa 16137 Italy |
This is one of the most interesting cemeteries in Italy and is visited by many foreign tourists. It owes its fame to its amphitheatre on the slopes of the hill and the continuous succession of monumental buildings and little woods. It was created by G.B.Resasco in successive phases since the middle of the nineteenth century. It is dominated by the Chapel of the Intercession (or Pantheon). Here are all the headstones of the famous people of the city. There are sculptures and architecture throughout the galleries, tree-lined avenues and in the English and Jewish cemeteries. They are not only a sample of art from the second half of the nineteenth century; they also show the self-congratulatory nature of the upper-classes of this period. They spared no expense in order that they should be remembered by a chapel or a monument next to the city's heroes. Caterina Campodonico is a well-known example. She was a simple salesgirl who stood at streetcorners selling nuts and canestrelli. She saved money all her life so that she might have a funeral monument which was similar in stature to that of Mazzini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Forrest McGregor |
 Photo: Francesca Grillo |
 Photo: Forrest McGregor |
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 Photo: willard_austria |
 Photo: Alice |
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Frescoes and books |
Via Balbi, 5 Genoa 16126 Italy +39 10 2 0991 |
Founded as a Jesuit college in 1634, today this is the main University site. It is an extraordinary example of a productive use of the hillside behind, featuring a panorama of stairways, galleries and hanging gardens, like in the Palazzo Doria Tursi on the Via Garibaldi, modelled on the work of the architect Bartolomeo Bianco. The splendid Aula Magna, richly frescoed by G.A. Carlone, is certainly worth a visit. The University Library nearby is housed in the former Jesuit church of S. Francesco Saverio, with frescoes by D. Piola, partially hidden by the bookshelves. Admission:Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A well-hidden church |
Via Assarotti, 21 Genoa 16122 Italy |
It is difficult to find this tiny church. It's hidden inside a nineteenth century palazzo on Via Assorotti. There is also another church, in Sampierdarena, for those who need to pray to the west. (in Via Buranello 42 r). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Parrots in the garden |
Corso Solferino, 25-29 Genoa 16122 Italy |
Built as a country residence by the Dei Mari family in the late sixteenth century, this building, standing on the top of a large public park in the hilly area of Castelletto, was modified by the Grübers in the nineteenth century. Now a museum of Americana, which collects archeological material from the pre-colombian civilizations, especially the Maya people, it incorporates the local police station in its most modern wing as well as a sixteenth century watch tower behind. The nearby family Abbey of S. Maria della Sanità was also a part of the estate. Today it is separated from the villa and open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Puggioni |
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A lily pond in a secret villa |
Via S.Bartolomeo degli Armeni, 5 Genoa 16122 Italy |
Located in the area of Castelletto near via Assarotti, this splendid sixteenth century villa is perhaps the best kept secret of the work of the Perugian architect Galeazzzo Alessi. It is privately owned, and as such is open to the public only on special occasions. It consists of a compact square, galleried block, situated on a flat space in a wonderfully panoramic location, surrounded by a flourishing terraced garden. The interior is frescoed by L. Cambiaso and G.B. Castello (known as 'Il Bergamasco'), working together in a well-established team. The villa has conserved its attractive sixteenth century lily pond, completely tiled with mosaics and shells, an enormously successful design that was copied in many other aristocratic country residences. Review © 2007, Wcities |