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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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/









