Genoa |
Aptly named"La superba" ( the superb) in its golden age, it is an interesting town. The medieval center is the largest in Europe. Nowadays, the old port has been renovated and connected to the center of the city once more, according to Renzo Piano's master plan and project. So now you can imagine the ancient ships arriving overloaded with goods from the whole world, and the stockhouses being filled with silks, spices, clothes...
From the port ( don't overlook the Aquarium, one of the best in Europe) you can go to the very center through the "caruggi",narrow old streets, or follow the beautiful Via S. Lorenzo, visit the gothic cathedral and then the Palazzo Ducale and its museums and galleries.
You are in Piazza de' Ferrari and can enjoy the sight and maybe the music of the recently renovated Opera house ( Carlo Felice).Nearby, Via Garibaldi is a unique example of a Renaissance ideal town made real. Unforgettable.
If you have time, make sure you take the lift to the Castelleto viewpoint: a fantastic general view of the slate roofs and green copper domes of the old town, the see and surrounding hills.
Food: the best known specialty is "pesto" , the famous basil, garlic and olive raw souce for pasta. Try the small places under the arcades lining the old port. They still are what they used to be. Try "farinata" and various stuffed vegetables.
Don't forget to pay a visit to Romanengo, a pastry shop since the 18th century.
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