The historic crane of the Old Port of Genoa

La gru storica del Porto Antico di Genova

The historic crane of Genoa's Old Port.
In the heart of Genoa's Old Port, amidst modern tourist facilities and renovated architecture, a discreet yet significant presence stands out: a historic crane, also known as the hydraulic left-handed crane, which is no longer in use but has been preserved as a symbol of the city's port past.
This compact machine, clad in riveted sheet metal and resting on a masonry and granite block base, represents one of the last examples of a lifting system that served the port for decades. Its lattice boom and counterweights enclosed in a sheet metal wheel tell a story of hard work, precision, and technical progress. Built by the English firm Tannet & Walker, the crane remained in service for over a century, until the major redevelopment of the Old Port in 1992 for the Colombian Festival.
Today, the crane no longer lifts loads or moves goods, but remains there, visible from the small bridge in front of the Baluardo, like an object of industrial archaeology. Its dark, compact profile contrasts with the futuristic lines of the Bigo, the large, dramatic crane designed by Renzo Piano, creating a fascinating interplay of perspective between past and present. The decision to keep the crane in its original location is an act of respect for the history of Genoa's port work. The port was once bustling with workers, the camalli, or Genoese porters, and a system of cranes and hoists that allowed the loading and unloading of goods from across the Mediterranean. This crane is the last survivor of that era, a silent witness that invites reflection and remembrance. For visitors to the Porto Antico, the crane represents a point of cultural and photographic interest. Despite its inactivity, it continues to arouse curiosity and admiration, especially among enthusiasts of industrial and maritime history. It is a concrete example of how technical heritage can be enhanced even beyond its original function.

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La gru storica del Porto Antico di Genova

Photo taken with Oppo Reno 12.

The historic crane of the Old Port of Genoa – La grue historique du Vieux-Port de Gênes – La grúa histórica del Puerto Viejo de Génova – O histórico guindaste do Porto Velho de Génova – Der historische Kran des Alten Hafens von Genua – Cần cẩu lịch sử của Cảng cũ Genoa

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://portoantico.it/magazine-news/le-gru-del-porto-antico/
– https://www.mentelocale.it/genova/70802-crociate-camalli-gru-ad-acqua-alla-scoperta-del-porto-di-genova.htm
– https://www.archeominosapiens.it/galleria-foto/archeofoto/mancina-gru-camalli/

Genoa from above: the magic of the Castelletto viewpoint

Genova dall’alto: la magia del Belvedere di Castelletto

Genoa from above: the magic of the Castelletto Belvedere.
Genoa is a city that reveals itself slowly, through narrow streets, historic buildings, and glimpses of the sea. But to capture all its beauty in a single glance, there is a place that offers a unique emotion: the Castelletto Belvedere.
Situated on one of the most evocative heights in the city, this panoramic point offers breathtaking views of the historic center, the ancient port, and the infinite blue of the Ligurian Sea. It is the place where Genoa reveals itself in all its complexity: elegant, chaotic, vertical.
The Belvedere is easily reached by the Castelletto public elevator, a true jewel of urban engineering that connects the Piazza Portello area with the top of the neighborhood. In just a few minutes, you go from the pulsating heart of the city to the suspended silence of the belvedere, where time seems to slow down.
Once there, your gaze opens onto a panorama that encompasses the red roofs and medieval towers of the historic center; The port with its ships, cranes, and the silhouette of the Lanterna; the green hills surrounding the city; the sea merging with the sky on the horizon.
The Belvedere di Castelletto is more than just an observation point: it is a space for contemplation, photography, reading, and meeting. Genoese people come here for a break, tourists for an unforgettable snapshot, lovers for a shared sunset.
Nearby are cafes, benches, gardens, and romantic views. It is the ideal place to experience Genoa from above, far from the noise yet close to the city's soul.
Every moment of the day offers a different light: the morning is clear and silent, the afternoon golden and lively, the evening magical with the lights that light up like urban stars. But it is at sunset that the Belvedere di Castelletto becomes poetry: the sun sets behind the hills and Genoa is tinged with pink, orange, and blue.
The Belvedere di Castelletto is one of those places you never forget. A balcony suspended between sky and sea, where Genoa tells its story without words. If you want to experience the city from a unique perspective, this is the place to start.

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Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Tamron 16-300.

Here's where the lookout is located:

The Montaldo viewpoint is connected to the Portello square by a public lift, which entered into service in 1910, whose arrival station is housed in a characteristic Art Nouveau glass kiosk.
Continue and learn more on Wikipedia

The view of Genoa from Spianata Castelletto – Le panorama de Gênes depuis Spianata Castelletto – El panorama de Génova desde Spianata Castelletto – O panorama de Génova de Spianata Castelletto – Das Panorama von Genua von Spianata Castelletto – Toàn cảnh Genoa từ Sianata Castelletto

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://www.visitgenoa.it/belvedere-di-castelletto
– https://www.lamialiguria.it/it/genova-dall-alto-belvedere-castelletto.html
– https://www.genovaturismo.it/it/scopri/genova-dall-alto

“Sic nos non nobis”: il motto che racconta Genova

“Sic nos non nobis”: il motto che racconta Genova

“Sic nos non nobis”: il motto che racconta Genova.
Nel cuore del centro storico di Genova, in Piazza Fossatello, il portone del maestoso Palazzo Grimaldi Doria accoglie i passanti con una scritta latina che incuriosisce e affascina: “Sic nos non nobis”. Tre parole, scolpite con eleganza, che racchiudono un’intera filosofia di vita e un frammento prezioso della storia genovese.
La frase completa, attribuita al poeta latino Virgilio, è: “Sic vos non vobis mellificatis apes” – “Così voi, api, fate il miele non per voi stesse”. La versione incisa sul portone, “Sic nos non nobis”, si traduce: “Così noi, non per noi stessi”.
È un motto che parla di altruismo, servizio, dedizione. Un messaggio potente, che riflette l’ideale di chi agisce per il bene comune, senza cercare gloria personale. Un pensiero che ben si adatta alla storia della famiglia Grimaldi e alla tradizione repubblicana di Genova, dove il prestigio si conquistava con l’impegno civico e il contributo alla città.
Il palazzo che ospita questa iscrizione è uno dei Palazzi dei Rolli, le dimore nobiliari genovesi che, tra XVI e XVII secolo, venivano selezionate per ospitare ospiti illustri in visita alla Repubblica. La famiglia Grimaldi, tra le più antiche e influenti di Genova, fece costruire questo edificio come simbolo di potere, ma anche di responsabilità verso la città.
La scritta sul portone non è solo decorativa: è una dichiarazione d’intenti, un invito a ricordare che il privilegio comporta dovere, e che la grandezza si misura nella capacità di servire gli altri.
Un messaggio ancora attuale. In un’epoca dominata dall’individualismo, “Sic nos non nobis” risuona come un monito gentile ma deciso. Passeggiando per Piazza Fossatello, alzare lo sguardo verso quella scritta significa riscoprire un valore antico e sempre attuale: vivere non solo per sé, ma per qualcosa di più grande.

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“Sic nos non nobis”: il motto che racconta Genova

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon RF 24-50.

Where is the gate located:

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://infogenova.info/conoscigenova/infospinola/515-curiosa-frase-in-via-del-campo
– https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palazzo_Doria-Tursi
– https://www.palazzoandreapitto.it/storia-1

Decorative elements of a building Luccoli street

Elementi decorativi di un palazzoin via Luccoli a Genova

Decorative elements of a building on Luccoli street in Genoa.
Strolling through the wonderful alleys of Genoa, trying to always keep my nose in the air, I saw these beautiful decorations on this equally beautiful building.
They are tombstones bearing the coat of arms of Genoa with a lamb holding the flag of Christ (Agnus Dei) in the center and then the coat of arms of a family (which, however, seems to have been erased).
I searched and searched for something about this building, which is located at numbers 16 and 18, but I was unable to find anything.

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Elementi decorativi di un palazzoin via Luccoli a Genova

Elementi decorativi di un palazzoin via Luccoli a Genova

Elementi decorativi di un palazzoin via Luccoli a Genova

Elementi decorativi di un palazzoin via Luccoli a Genova

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon RF 24-50.

Decorative elements of a building in via Luccoli in Genoa – Éléments décoratifs d’un bâtiment de la via Luccoli à Gênes – Elementos decorativos de un edificio en via Luccoli en Génova Elementos decorativos de um edifício na via Luccoli em Génova – Dekorative Elemente eines Gebäudes in der Via Luccoli in Genua – Các yếu tố trang trí của một tòa nhà ở Via Luccoli tại Genoa

The Anita Garibaldi promenade in Genoa Nervi

La passeggiata Anita Garibaldi di Genova Nervi

The Anita Garibaldi promenade in Genoa Nervi.
The promenade has ancient origins, dating back to 1823, when it was a simple path used by local fishermen and farmers to reach fishing spots and farmland. In 1862, the Marquis Gaetano Gropallo began work to transform this path into a real seaside promenade, initially divided into two sections. The first section connected the small port of Nervi with the ancient Gropallo tower, while the second section, completed in 1872, connected via Serra Gropallo with Capolungo.
Today, the Anita Garibaldi promenade is a favorite destination for both Genoese and tourists. Its exclusive pedestrianization, introduced in 1959, makes it ideal for relaxing walks, jogging, and moments of contemplation of the sea. Along the path, you can find numerous bars and beach resorts, as well as steps that allow access to the sea and natural pools formed by the rocks.
One of the points of interest along the walk is the Gropallo Tower, built in the 16th century as part of the defensive system against pirate attacks. The tower, which takes its name from the Marquis Gropallo, has been restored several times over the centuries and today represents a historical symbol of the area.
Adjacent to the walk, the Nervi Parks offer a green oasis with a wide variety of botanical species, including palms and cedars, and the Luigi Viacava Rose Garden, famous for its over 200 varieties of roses. The parks also host museums of modern and contemporary art, located in the historic villas Gropallo, Saluzzo Serra, Grimaldi Fassio and Luxoro.
Nervi is also home to important cultural events, such as Euroflora, one of the most spectacular floral displays, and the International Ballet and Music Festival, which has regained its historical prestige. These events attract visitors from all over the world, helping to make the promenade and the surrounding parks a center of culture and beauty.

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La passeggiata Anita Garibaldi di Genova Nervi

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon RF 28.

Here instead you can see all the photos taken in the Parks and along the walk:
foto gallery

Where is the walk located:

The Anita Garibaldi promenade, better known as the Nervi promenade, is a tourist spot in Genoa in the Nervi district. It starts from the small port of Nervi, from the mouth of the homonymous stream, until reaching the ancient port of Capolungo with a total length of almost 2 km.
Continue and learn more on Wikipedia

The Anita Garibaldi Walk in Genoa Nervi – La promenade Anita Garibaldi de Gênes Nervi – El paseo de Anita Garibaldi de Génova Nervi – A caminhada Anita Garibaldi de Génova Nervi – Der Anita-Garibaldi-Spaziergang von Genua Nervi – Cuộc đi bộ Anita Garibaldi của Genoa Nervi

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187823-d2358871-Reviews-Passeggiata_Anita_Garibaldi_a_Nervi-Genoa_Italian_Riviera_Liguria.html

The arcades of XX Settembre street in Genoa

I portici di via XX Settembre a Genova

The porticos of XX Settembre street in Genoa.
Via XX Settembre is one of the main arteries of Genoa, famous for its elegant porticos that extend along much of the street. These porticos not only offer shelter from the elements, but also represent an extraordinary example of urban architecture, combining neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau elements.
The construction of Via XX Settembre dates back to the end of the 19th century, in a period of great urban expansion for Genoa. The porticos, with their mosaic floors and decorated ceilings, were designed to add a touch of elegance to the city. The columns and arches in black and white stone create a fascinating visual effect, making a walk under the porticos a unique experience.
Walking under the porticos of Via XX Settembre, you can admire a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants that offer a mix of tradition and modernity. This street is a reference point for shopping and social life of the Genoese, but also a place where you can breathe in the history of the city. Every architectural detail tells a part of the history of Genoa, from its medieval times to the present day.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the porticoes of Via XX Settembre is the motto of Genoa engraved under one of the neo-Gothic porticoes: “As the Griffin seizes these, so Genoa tears to pieces its enemies”. This motto, accompanied by a griffin seizing an eagle and a fox, dates back to the ancient Republic of Genoa and represents the strength and determination of the city.
The porticoes of Via XX Settembre are an unmissable place for those visiting Genoa. Whether it is a relaxing stroll, a shopping session or a coffee break, the porticoes offer a fascinating and historically rich environment. Every corner of this street tells a story, making each visit a unique and memorable experience.

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I portici di via XX Settembre a Genova

Photo taken with Honor 20.

Where is the street located:

What is September 20, the date of the XX Settembre streets? On that day, in 1870, the Italian army took Rome after the breach of Porta Pia: it was the end of the Papal State.
Continua ed approfondisci su Il Post

The arcades of Via XX Settembre in Genoa – Les arcades de la via XX Settembre à Gênes – Las arcadas de via XX Settembre en Génova – As arcadas da via XX Settembre em Génova – Die Arkaden der Via XX Settembre in Genua – Các mái vòm của XX Settembre ở Genoa

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.

The view of Genoa from Spianata Castelletto

Il panorama di Genova da Spianata Castelletto

The view of Genoa from Spianata Castelletto.
Genoa, with its historical and maritime charm, offers numerous panoramic points, but one of the most evocative is undoubtedly Spianata Castelletto. Located in the heart of the city, this panoramic terrace offers a breathtaking view that embraces the historic center, the port and the sea.
Spianata Castelletto, also known as Belvedere Montaldo, is a real “balcony” suspended above the historic center of Genoa. From here, visitors can admire the slate roofs of the houses, the medieval towers, the famous Lanterna and the ships that sail the port. The view is particularly fascinating at sunset, when the city is tinged with warm colors and the sea reflects the lights of the twilight.
Reaching Spianata Castelletto is simple and can be a pleasant experience in itself. You can opt for a walk through the characteristic alleys of the Castelletto district, or take the Liberty elevator from Piazza del Portello, a unique experience that offers a taste of Genoese history and culture.
Once you arrive, a stop to enjoy a Sicilian granita from the famous Gelateria Don Paolo is a must. Sitting on the benches of the esplanade, with a granita in hand, you can enjoy one of the most romantic and evocative views of the city.
Spianata Castelletto is a place that enchants both tourists and locals. It is the ideal place to take unforgettable photographs, relax and admire the beauty of Genoa from above. Whether it is a day visit or a moment of rest during a walk, this panoramic point is an unmissable stop for anyone who wants to discover the true spirit of the Superba.
If you are planning a visit to Genoa, do not forget to include Spianata Castelletto in your itinerary. The spectacular view and the relaxing atmosphere will make you fall in love with this fascinating city even more.

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Il panorama di Genova da Spianata Castelletto

Il panorama di Genova da Spianata Castelletto

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon EF-S 10-18.

Here's where the lookout is located:

The Montaldo viewpoint is connected to the Portello square by a public lift, which entered into service in 1910, whose arrival station is housed in a characteristic Art Nouveau glass kiosk.
Continue and learn more on Wikipedia

The view of Genoa from Spianata Castelletto – Le panorama de Gênes depuis Spianata Castelletto – El panorama de Génova desde Spianata Castelletto – O panorama de Génova de Spianata Castelletto – Das Panorama von Genua von Spianata Castelletto – Toàn cảnh Genoa từ Sianata Castelletto

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://genovaturismo.it/
– https://www.tastingtheworld.it/genova-vista-dall-alto-spianata-castelletto/3733/

The porticoes and the Basilica of Santo Stefano in via Venti

I portici e la Basilica di Santo Stefano in via Venti

The porticos and the Basilica of Santo Stefano in via Venti.
When I walk along via Venti Settembre in Genoa, passing under the porticos on the sea side (let's say) the view always takes in the beautiful Basilica of Santo Stefano and the porticos that "support" it.
The charm of the two-tone style perhaps embellishes the view.

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I portici e la Basilica di Santo Stefano in via Venti

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon RF 24-50.

Here's where I took the photo from:

The church of Santo Stefano (or abbey of Santo Stefano) is one of the most famous Christian places of worship in Genoa, and its parish community is part of the Vicariate of Carignano – Foce of the archdiocese of Genoa. Situated on a hill overlooking the central Via XX Settembre, it was one of the most significant examples of Romanesque architecture in the Ligurian capital. Christopher Columbus was baptized in this church and it is believed that the young Balilla was also baptized.
Continue and learn more on Wikipedia

The porticoes and the Basilica of Santo Stefano in via XX in Genoa – Les portiques et la basilique de Santo Stefano dans la via XX à Gênes – Los pórticos y la Basílica de Santo Stefano en via XX en Génova – Os pórticos e a Basílica de Santo Stefano na via XX em Génova – Die Portiken und die Basilika Santo Stefano in der Via XX in Genua – Các mái cổng và Vương cung thánh đường Santo Stefano qua XX ở Genoa

The Archivolt of San Giovanni il Vecchio in Genoa

L'Archivolto di San Giovanni il Vecchio a Genova

The Archivolt of San Giovanni il Vecchio in Genoa.
Walking around the Cathedral of Genoa (San Lorenzo) and wanting to go towards the church of San Matteo, you can pass under this beautiful archivolt.
One of the many in the historic center of Genoa.

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L'Archivolto di San Giovanni il Vecchio a Genova

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon EF-S 10-18.

Where is the archivolt located:

The Archivolt of San Giovanni il Vecchio in Genoa – L’archivolte de San Giovanni l’Ancien à Gênes – La Arquivolta de San Giovanni el Viejo en Génova – A Arquivolta de San Giovanni, o Velho, em Génova – Die Archivolte von San Giovanni d.Ä. in Genua – Văn phòng lưu trữ của San Giovanni the Elder ở Genoa

The Gropallo Tower in Genoa Nervi

La Torre Gropallo a Genova Nervi: un tuffo nella storia

Gropallo Tower in Genoa Nervi: a dive into history.
Located along the picturesque Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, Gropallo Tower is one of the most fascinating historical symbols of Genoa Nervi. This tower, also known as Torre del Fieno, has a rich and interesting history that dates back to the 16th century.
Gropallo Tower was built in the mid-16th century as part of the defensive system against attacks by corsairs, especially those of the famous pirate Dragut. Originally, the tower was used to signal imminent dangers by burning wet hay on its top, hence the name “Torre del Fieno”.
In the 19th century, the tower was purchased by Marquis Gaetano Gropallo, who was also the creator of the Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi. Thanks to him, the tower was preserved and integrated into one of the most evocative pedestrian routes in the city.
Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, almost 2 km long, is a place loved by both residents and tourists. This coastal path offers breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea and connects the small port of Nervi with the ancient port of Capolungo. Along the promenade, you can find numerous bars and beach resorts, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day.
Today, the Gropallo Tower is not only a historical monument, but also a reference point for cultural and recreational activities. The tower and the surrounding promenade host events, exhibitions and sports activities, helping to keep the local tradition and culture alive.

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La Torre Gropallo a Genova Nervi: un tuffo nella storia

Photo taken with Canon EOS RP and lens Canon RF 28.

Here instead you can see all the photos taken in the Parks and along the walk:
foto gallery

Where is the tower located:

The sixteenth-century tower that today houses some associations (the Naval League and the Alpine troops of the neighborhood) was instead known as the “hay tower,” due to the fuel used to produce smoke signals and communicate sightings of pirates and enemies to the entire coast.
Continue and learn more on amezena.net

The Gropallo Tower on the Genoa Nervi promenade – La Tour Gropallo sur la promenade de Genova Nervi – La Torre Gropallo en el paseo marítimo de Genova Nervi – A Torre Gropallo no passeio Genova Nervi – Der Gropallo-Turm an der Promenade von Genova Nervi – Tháp Gropallo trên lối đi dạo Genova Nervi

The text of the post was written with the help of Copilot, a virtual assistant based on artificial intelligence.
References:
– https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passeggiata_Anita_Garibaldi
– https://www.genovamade.it/torre-gropallo-la-vista-panoramica/