Genoa: Le Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli
Italy ·
Description
Between the 16th and 17th centuries, the Republic of Genoa laid out new streets along its hillside — the Strade Nuove — lined with aristocratic palaces displaying the city’s extraordinary wealth from banking and maritime trade. The palazzi were listed in an official register (the Rolli) and assigned to host distinguished state visitors. Rubens published a book of their elegant plans and facades that influenced European palace architecture for centuries.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
UNESCO recognized the Strade Nuove and Palazzi dei Rolli as the first example in Europe of an urban development project parceled out by a public authority and associated with a unique system of private lodging for state visitors.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco and Palazzo Doria-Tursi on Via Garibaldi are open as the Musei di Strada Nuova.
Yes, twice a year many normally-closed palazzi open for the public over a weekend.
Genoa is well connected by rail from Milan, Nice and the Cinque Terre.
The Porto Antico waterfront, the medieval core around the cathedral, and the aquarium.
Pesto alla Genovese, focaccia, farinata and fresh Ligurian seafood.