Self-Guided Podcast Tour: The Phantom Empire of Genoa

Highlights

• Self-guided audio tour
• Experts and locals
• History and finance

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Palazzo Di San Giorgio

   10min

   The ancient civic palace that became the world's first modern bank, funding explorers and empires.

2. 2

   Loggia dei Mercanti

   10min

   The 16th-century Wall Street where merchants traded commodities and expanded the maritime insurance market.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   10min

   A striking black-and-white cathedral built with Crusade wealth, housing what was once believed to be the Holy Grail.

4. 4

   Piazza San Matteo

   10min

   The perfectly preserved, private medieval square of the Doria family, rulers of Genoa's naval fleets.

5. 5

   Musei di Strada Nuova - Palazzo Rosso

   10min

   A lavish red palace on Via Garibaldi, showcasing the peak of the Rolli hospitality system.

6. 6

   Musei di Strada Nuova - Palazzo Bianco

   10min

   The elegant white rival to Palazzo Rosso, illustrating the intense architectural competition among Genoa's elite.

7. 7

   Musei di Strada Nuova - Palazzo Doria Tursi

   10min

   The most massive palace on the street, built by a Spanish banker, now housing the city hall and Paganini's violin.

8. 8

   Spianata Castelletto

   10min

   A panoramic terrace offering a sweeping view of the city, the port, and the legacy of La Superba.

Before you go

Location