Genoa: Palazzi dei Roll and Palazzo Reale Guided Tour

Step into a world of opulent grandeur on a guided exploration of Genoa's Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These magnificent palaces, built by Genoa's aristocratic families during their Golden Age, are a testament to the city's past maritime power and wealth. Imagine strolling through sprawling courtyards, ascending elegant staircases, and gazing out from shaded loggias onto meticulously manicured gardens. These palaces, constructed between the late 16th and early 17th centuries, weren't just private residences; they were also part of a sophisticated network of state guesthouses, established by decree of the Genoese Senate in 1576 to accommodate important visitors. Their strategic placement on different levels across the historic Strade Nuove district showcases the city's unique urban planning of that era. One highlight is the Palazzo Reale, a truly breathtaking example of Baroque architecture. Commissioned by the Balbi family and designed by Pier Francesco Cantone, this expansive palace boasts a collection of stunning reception halls. Marvel at the frescoes, stuccos, paintings, sculptures, and opulent furnishings that reflect centuries of noble and royal lifestyles. The ceilings alone are a masterpiece of Baroque and Rococo artistry, adorned with the works of some of the era's most celebrated decorative artists. The palace's art collection is equally impressive, boasting over 100 paintings by leading 17th-century Genoese masters. You'll also encounter masterpieces by renowned international artists such as Anton Van Dyck, Tintoretto, Guercino, Luca Giordano, Ferdinand Voet, and Bassano – a truly unforgettable collection!