Historically, the port city of northern Italy, the capital of Liguria, today's Genoa, is in the shadow of other tourist cities in Italy (Rome or Venice). However, with many attractions, great cuisine and one of Europe's largest aquariums, Genoa is an alluring tourist destination on the old continent.
One of the attractions of Genoa is the amazing Castello D'Albertis Museum. Housed in the castle after which the museum is named, this cultural center of the city contains an interesting exhibition of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts collected by Captain D'Albertis during his travels to many countries in America, Africa, Asia and Oceania. The whole world culture is very interestingly presented in the museum. The castle of Castello D'Albertis itself is an amazing structure. It embodies a mixture of various medieval architectural styles and neo-Gothic. The castle was built in the 19th century near the city center.
The Doge's Palace is another famous landmark in Genoa. In the 14th century, the Doge's Palace was the seat of the first local doge, Simon Bocanegra. Since then, the building has become home to local doges, and today it is open to tourists. The palace is located in the city center. It is a whole complex, which can currently host various exhibitions and other cultural events.
Among the palaces of Genoa, the Royal Palace can also be distinguished. Built in the 18th century by the Balbi family, the palace has been transformed into a true Baroque masterpiece in the style of Roman palaces. This attraction is located on the street in honor of the founding family (Balbi). The palace complex includes an amazing hanging garden with exotic plants that overlooks the sea.
Genoa's aquarium is one of the most unique of its kind. This second largest aquarium in Europe impresses not only with its numerous and exotic inhabitants, but also with its structure, which resembles a ship. The aquarium is built next to the pier of the old port. The total capacity of the tanks is 6 million liters.
Another attraction of the city is the ancient Soprana Gate. They have survived from the ancient fortress of the 12th century. The gate was the eastern entrance to the medieval city. They are located in the southeastern historic part of Genoa, near Dante Square. Next to the gate is another landmark of Genoa - the house of Columbus.
Also in Genoa, you can contemplate other attractions: Villa Doria Pamphilj, the old lighthouse, the Church of San Pietro and San Donato, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the unique Antarctic Museum.
