About this experience
During the tour, you will learn about the history of the city's foundation and development, visit the sights of the largest historical center in Europe, and hear stories about famous Genoese citizens such as Christopher Columbus, Niccolo Paganini, Andrea Doria, and others.
What to expect
The tour will start at one of the oldest banks (13th-16th centuries) in the Palace of San Giorgio. Then you will visit the Doge's Palace (13th-16th century) and walk to the central square with the graceful De Ferrari fountains.
We will then explore a number of interesting buildings and structures:
- The Gothic Cathedral of San Lorenzo (12th-14th centuries) with the Baptistery of St. John, which houses the remains of the saint;
- The Treasury Museum, which holds historical religious artifacts such as the Holy Grail chalice (1st century), used by Christ at the Last Supper; the chalice on which the head of John the Baptist fell after being beheaded by King Herod; relics containing hair of the Virgin Mary, mother of Christ, and a thorn from Jesus' crown of thorns; numerous Byzantine jewelry pieces;
- The Jesuit Church of Saints Ambrogio and Andrea in Romanesque style (13th century, with altars painted by Rubens);
- The Porta Soprana gates (12th century) - a symbol of the city of Genoa;
- The house where the legendary navigator Christopher Columbus is said to have grown up.
We will also stroll along Via Garibaldi - the most beautiful street in Genoa (formerly Via Aurea - the Golden Street), designed in the 14th century by the architect Galeazzo Alessi, a student of Michelangelo.
