Sighseeing
A major attraction and the hub of the local economy, the city's docks remain the most popular place in Genoa. The docks underwent a complete restoration thanks to the famous local architect Renzo Piano. At present, the docks comprise apart from their working port, a huge Aquarium, a multiplex cinema and an ice rink. The docks also accommodate the magnificent Neptune ship, with a statue of god Neptune on its front. This splendid galleon was the set of Polanski's movie - the Pirates.
Head up from the port and you will encounter one of Genoa's major prides - the Palace of San Giorgio. This magnificent 13th century frescoed palace testifies to the city's former glory. The palace was the place where the famous Marco Polo was jailed in the past. Here he wrote his memoirs, which were later studied by Columbus, before his setting off.
The historic town centre is set above the port and is connected by steep yet charming narrow caruggi (medieval streets) dotted with elegant boutiques and historic churches. Stop at the splendid 16-th century Galleria Imperiale, set on via Scurreria, near Lorrenzo Square. It boasts a gorgeous frescoed entrance and a selection of antique treasures.
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo and Campanile is positioned on Tommaso Regio 17. Its history goes back to the 13th century. The cathedral is mostly famous for its interesting blend of black and white marble, which decorates the façade. The soberness of the structure is slightly softened by the lovely imaginative French gothic carvings on the portal. Two stone lions furthermore enliven the gate. In the 16th century to the cathedral was added a campanile, which now contains the L'Arrotino sundial - one of the city's most beloved relics. The cathedral accommodates the chapel of St. John the Baptist. It is believed that this chapel houses a crypt with the remains of Saint John the Baptist, which was brought here from the Holy Land by the crusades. The chapel is furthermore believed to house another curiosity - a shell fired through the top from an English ship offshore that strangely did not explode.
The local aquarium
Acquario di Genova is the continent's largest one, accommodating a large selection of sea-life. It is moreover a remarkable structure and one of the biggest attractions of this vibrant city. The aquarium is situated within comfortable walking distance from Stazione Principe in the historic harbour. The structure resembles a big ship with over 50 aquatic displays. These feature re-creations of various sea ecosystems including Red Sea coral reefs and the Amazon River basin rainforests. They house different kinds of sea life, among which sharks, seals, dolphins and many more. The aquarium is extremely well designed and features descriptions in English. For those passionate aquatic life fans, there is a short 3-D movie on ocean life.
Palazzo Ducale
This 16th century magnificent palace was constructed over the remains of a medieval hall. It façade experienced a reconstruction in the end of the 18th century, and was afterwards restored again. At present, it hosts temporary exhibits. There is a cosy bar-restaurant, which serves excellent international and local cuisine onsite. If you want to see the dungeon and the tower of the palace, you need to make a reservation in advance. There are organised tours around the building occasionally.
The church of San Mateo
The church of San Mateo is a traditional 12th century structure with black-an-white-stripe façade. It houses a crypt with the tomb of the famous admiral of Genoa - Andrea Doria, who lived during the 15th century and is known for keeping the independence of the city. The church is positioned on the beautifully preserved San Mateo Square, which had been for 5 centuries the seat of the Doria family, the ruling dynasty of the city during the 16th, 17th and 18th century. Piazza San Mateo is surrounded by excellent examples of medieval style architecture. The historic buildings feature interesting loggias and portals.
Galleria Nazionale
Galleria Nazionale di Genova is placed on the lovely Piazza della Pellicceria. The building is an elegant 16th century palazzo, accommodating an array of fine art pieces. The gallery is also home to a comprehensive collection of decorative art, including a number of ceramics, silver objects of art and historic furniture.
Museo di Palazzo Reale
Situated next to the University building on Via Balbi is the charming Palazzo Reale. Built in the early 17th century as a residence for the influential Balbi family, the palace is now a must-see museum with many extraordinary features, a lovely gallery with comprehensive fine art, sculptures and antiques and a magnificent mosaic courtyard.
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