The thrill of exploration positively seeps from the walls of Genoa’s buildings. That isn’t literally true, that would be quite bizarre, but this is a place as defined by exploration as it is anything else. Italy’s largest seaport has long been one of the Mediterranean’s most important sports, from the days of the Most Serene Republic of Venice all the way to the modern world, a chaotic blend of light and dark that is every bit as enchanting as visitors hope. Genoa was once one of the wealthiest cities in the world, but today it must make do with being one of the most beguiling.
Embracing Genoa’s storied history is integral to squeezing every drop of delight out of la Superba (The Proud One) and there are plenty of fabulously put-together museums ready to tell that tale before you animatedly discuss it over Genoese gastronomic gorgeousness. Did you know that this is where pesto comes from? You do now, and you’re welcome. No wonder people flocked here for centuries; they were looking for garlic and basil magnificence, not fame and fortune.
Genoa is as much the sum of its parts as it is a showcase for those parts, the sort of city that invigorates with its tumultuous centre while showing off the oldest state bank on the planet. You might not come to understand Genoa, but you’re almost certainly going to love it. Keep your hands inside the ride at all times and hold on tight.
