Genoa cruise port excursions

Welcome to MonTataneTour (MTT) and your page “Genoa cruise port excursions”.

My name is Sarah (aka Miss Tatane 😛), a cruise enthusiast just like you. I’m here to share my experiences and insider tips so you can make the most of your cruise stop or embarkation in Genoa.

Don’t forget to bookmark us if you’re planning an upcoming cruise! Our MTT website (your travel buddy 😉) is updated weekly with fresh articles and new destinations as we sail around the world.

On this page, I recommend two of the best budget-friendly partners. You can book with Civitatis 🔴 or GetYourGuide 🔵, depending on your preference. I’ve compared prices for you and selected the top-value options.

Enjoy reading, have a fantastic cruise… and most importantly: make the most of it! ONE LIFE!!!

How to leave the Genoa cruise port?

Good news: the Genoa cruise port is located very close to the city center. In just a 7-minute walk, you can reach the main streets and start exploring. Here’s how to make the most of your time ashore:

Transport options from the cruise terminal

Walking	Free – 7 minutes to the historic center – Perfect for a quick start to your visit
Port shuttle	Not available – No need anyway, everything is walkable 😉
Taxi	About $12 – 5 minutes – Comfortable option if you have luggage, a group, or mobility needs
City bus	$1.75 – Routes across Genoa – Great if you want to explore beyond the old town
Tourist bus	$29 – Hop-on Hop-off – Best for a quick overview of the city, departure right by the port

You’ll exit the port through the main terminal building. Go through security and turn right onto the main street. Cross the small bridge, and you’re already on your way to Genoa’s heart. You can’t get lost.

Pro tip: at first glance, the surroundings may look ordinary… but Genoa is full of hidden gems and every corner is worth discovering! Make the most of your day here.

Things to do in Genoa

Arriving in Genoa and want to make the most of your port stop? This vibrant city is packed with history, culture, and amazing food. It’s the perfect shore excursion destination for cruisers who love a mix of sightseeing, strolling, and tasting local specialties.

Start with Via Garibaldi, famous for its Renaissance and Baroque palaces, UNESCO World Heritage architectural treasures. Don’t miss the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), one of the city’s main cultural hubs.

To experience the lively soul of Genoa, wander through the Old Port (Porto Antico) with its bustling docks, or explore the indoor Mercato Orientale for local products and Ligurian specialties like pesto and focaccia.

Make sure to see San Lorenzo Cathedral with its stunning Gothic architecture, and if you’re an art lover, the Palazzo Bianco and Palazzo Rosso host impressive collections spanning the 15th to 19th centuries.

Ready for adventure in Genoa? Follow me and discover the treasures of this Italian port city! 😍

City center

Explore the Old Port – Porto Antico

Start with the Porto Antico, Genoa’s Old Port. Completely renovated, this district is now lively and full of attractions. You’ll find:

The Genoa Aquarium, the largest in Italy
The Bigo, a panoramic elevator with 360° views
Cafés, museums, terraces, and a real maritime vibe

Discover Via Garibaldi

Next, head to Via Garibaldi, also called Strada Nuova. This UNESCO World Heritage street is lined with magnificent Renaissance palaces such as:

Palazzo Rosso
Palazzo Bianco
Palazzo Doria Tursi

All of them house museums and art collections. Even just admiring the façades is worth the walk!

Maddalena district

This authentic neighborhood, with its narrow colorful alleys, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You’ll come across small shops, local groceries, and charming cafés. A true taste of authentic Italy.

Piazza de Ferrari

Genoa cruise port excursions

No visit to Genoa would be complete without stopping at Piazza De Ferrari, the main square and symbol of the modern city. It seamlessly connects the historic center with the new town and serves as a central landmark during your shore excursion. At its center stands the monumental fountain, built in 1936, now the iconic feature giving the square its architectural balance.

Surrounding the square are impressive buildings:

Palazzo della Borsa, neo-Renaissance style, featuring stunning Art Nouveau interiors by Adolfo Coppedè (opened in 1912)
Palazzo del Credito Italiano (1914)
Palazzo della Regione, neo-Mannerist style (1924)

On the north side of the square stands the Carlo Felice Theater, built in 1828. From the original building, the neoclassical pronaos and exterior porticoes still remain today.

Right next door, also by Barabino, is the neoclassical building of the Academy of Fine Arts, a testament to Genoa’s artistic growth in the 19th century.

Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Genoa. Located between the historic center and Piazza De Ferrari, it is easily accessible on foot during your shore excursion.

Its main façade overlooks Piazza Matteotti, while the secondary wing opens onto Piazza De Ferrari. This historic building impresses visitors with its Mannerist architecture, majestic halls of the Maggiore Consiglio and Minor Consiglio, and the famous Grimaldina Tower from the 14th century. You can even explore the former prisons still preserved inside!

Today, the Palazzo Ducale is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting exhibitions, art events, conferences, and festivals throughout the year. It’s a lively place where heritage, art, and modernity meet.

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – Piazza Giacomo Matteotti
Access – 15 minutes on foot from the cruise port. Cobbled street but easy to walk.
Tickets – $29 per adult
Visit duration – 1h to 1h30 depending on your pace and the exhibition

San Lorenzo Cathedral

The San Lorenzo Cathedral (St. Lawrence), one of the top tourist attractions in Genoa, is a must-see during your visit to the city’s historic center. Located on Piazza San Lorenzo, right in the old town, it is just steps away from the Old Port, the Genoa Aquarium, and the Doge’s Palace.

Construction began in the 9th century, and over time the cathedral was expanded with elements from different periods, giving it a unique mix of architectural styles. The façade, with its striking Gothic portals and alternating black and white marble typical of medieval Genoa—was completed in 1312. Adding to its grandeur are the two majestic lions from 1840 guarding the staircase.

Inside, you can find the relics of Genoa’s patron saint, John the Baptist (San Giovanni Battista), along with remarkable artworks such as 17th-century frescoes by Lazzaro Tavarone. Don’t miss the chance to climb the towers for breathtaking city views, and visit the Treasury Museum beneath the cathedral, which houses sacred and historical artifacts.

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – Piazza San Lorenzo
Access – 15 minutes on foot from the cruise port. Cobbled street but easy to walk.
Ticket – Entrance fee: $5.8
Visit duration – Plan about 30 to 45 minutes

The Bigo

Genoa cruise port excursions

Want to get a bird’s-eye view of Genoa? The Bigo, an amazing panoramic lift in the Porto Antico, takes you up to 40 meters high to admire the city like never before. Designed by architect Renzo Piano, this futuristic structure is inspired by port cranes, a stylish nod to the city’s maritime history. From its glass cabin, enjoy a 360° view of the harbor, the colorful roofs of the historic center, and the Genoese hills on the horizon. A unique experience blending sky, sea, and heritage.

The ascent features a multilingual audio system to help you understand what you’re seeing and put Genoa in its historical and cultural context. The Bigo is located right next to the Genoa Aquarium, in the heart of the redeveloped old port area. Do you know my taste for risk? Well, I didn’t test it! 😄

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – Porto Antico
Access – 15 minutes on foot from the cruise port. Cobbled streets but easy to walk.
Ticket – Entrance fee: $7
Visit duration – About 10–15 minutes

Aquarium

Genoa cruise port excursions

Dive into the fascinating world of the ocean at the Genoa Aquarium, one of the largest in Europe! Located in the Porto Antico, this magical place lets you discover an incredible diversity of marine life, from sharks to jellyfish, and from seahorses to tropical fish.

The aquarium is home to over 600 different species across 27 immersive tanks, each reproducing a unique ecosystem. Every tank is a window into another world: from the Atlantic Ocean to tropical seas, including the fascinating Mediterranean biodiversity.

Behind the spectacular façade lies an interactive adventure where visitors of all ages can learn, observe, and be amazed. Educational workshops, temporary exhibitions, and encounters with experts enrich your visit.

An ideal activity for a Genoa shore excursion, located just steps from the cruise port.

ℹ️ Practical information

Access – Easily reachable by bus or on foot from the cruise port (15-minute walk).
Opening hours – Open daily from 9:00 AM → 8:00 PM (including Sundays).
Ticket – $35 skip-the-line ticket. Note: On-site price $36 with waiting time.
Visit duration – Plan about 2 hours.

Ticket – Aquarium

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

With this Genoa Aquarium ticket, you’ll explore the wildlife of one of Europe’s largest marine parks. Plus, an Italian gelato tasting is included.

Price per person → $36

✅ Check availability – Book now

Tourist bus

Genoa cruise port excursions

To explore Genoa in a convenient and flexible way, you can use the hop-on hop-off tourist bus. These buses make it easy to visit the city’s main attractions and allow you to get on and off at your own pace.

The routes pass through Porto Antico, Via Garibaldi with its historic palaces, and other iconic neighborhoods. Double-decker buses provide panoramic views of the city and harbor, perfect for spotting areas you want to explore on foot.

If you enjoy walking and exploring the city on foot, the tourist bus isn’t essential. However, many visitors choose it for a quick overview of Genoa, making it convenient for those who prefer a relaxed pace.

Tickets are valid for the entire day, allowing multiple rides if you wish. An audio guide is often available in several languages to help you better understand Genoa’s history and culture.

ℹ️ Practical information

Duration – Depending on your pace, expect 1 to 2 hours for a full loop.
Main stops – Porto Antico, Via Garibaldi, Piazza De Ferrari, Old Port, and other landmarks.
Accessibility – Buses pass near the cruise terminal and are easy to reach on foot.
Tip – Sit on the upper deck for the best views of the city and harbor.

Ticket – Tourist sus

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 243 reviews

The Genoa tourist bus has 11 stops to explore the city, including the famous Aquarium and Piazza De Ferrari. With double decks and an open roof, these buses offer the best views during your ride.

Price per person → $29

✅ Check availability – Book now

The Biosfera

Genoa cruise port excursions

If you’re heading to Genoa’s city center from the port, take a moment to visit the Biosfera, a unique creation by architect Renzo Piano.

This glass sphere floating on water in the Old Port houses a real mini tropical jungle. With over 150 species of exotic plants, butterflies, and iguanas, it’s a small preserved ecosystem where natural light creates a magical, relaxing atmosphere.

Visiting the Biosfera allows you to:

Observe a surprising diversity of plants and animals right in the city center.
Enjoy a peaceful moment just minutes from the cruise terminal.
Discover a place suitable for everyone: solo travelers, couples, or families.

ℹ️ Practical Information

Opening Hours – Perfect for your shore excursion: open daily from 10 AM!

Ticket – Biosfera

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If you love design & are in Genoa, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Biosphere, an icon of this Ligurian city designed by famous architect Renzo Piano.

Price per person → $7

✅ Check availability – Book now

Villetta di Negro park

Genoa cruise port excursions

Looking for a nature break without leaving the city center? Discover a hidden gem in Genoa: Villetta Di Negro Park, just a 10-minute walk from Piazza De Ferrari and Galleria Mazzini.

This 19th-century park, perched on a hill covering more than two hectares, offers a peaceful escape in the heart of Genoa. Highlights include:

Winding pathways
Charming small caves and waterfalls
Lush vegetation, including two centuries-old plane trees and three sequoias planted around 1870
At the top, the Edoardo Chiossone Oriental Art Museum with a terrace offering stunning city views

A refreshing green corner, perfect to relax and escape the urban hustle, without going far.

How to get to Villetta di Negro park

Distance & Duration	About 25–30 minutes on foot from the cruise terminal
Access	Walkable even though the park is on a hill. Hop-on Hop-off bus available to avoid climbing.
Recommended Route	1. Exit the terminal via Molo Guardiano and continue on Via ai Bacini di Carenaggio. 2. Turn left onto Via Molo Cagni, then right onto Varco Portuale Giano. 3. Take the first exit at the roundabout onto Via della Marina and continue straight. 4. Continue on Via della Madre di Dio, then turn left onto Scalinata Santa. 5. Follow Vico del Pomogranato, Piazza Vannuccio Faralli, then Via Gabriele d’Annunzio. 6. Cross Piazza Dante, then continue on Via Ceccardo Roccatagliata Ceccardi and Via XII Ottobre. 7. At Piazza Corvetto, take the 4th exit onto Via Martin Piaggio: the park is on your left.
Tip	Wear comfortable shoes for the climb. Hop-on Hop-off bus recommended for easier access.

FantaCinema

Genoa cruise port excursions

Movie lovers, don’t miss the chance to visit the FantaCinema in Genoa! This unique exhibition lets you explore original movie props, posters, and artifacts from some of the most iconic science fiction films in history.

With your ticket, you’ll have access to a vast collection including:

Original props and costumes from films such as Alien, Star Wars, and the famous DeLorean from Back to the Future.
Posters and historical documents showcasing the evolution of cinema and the Seventh Art.
Immersive sets including sections dedicated to Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, Pirates of the Caribbean, King Kong, and Batman, with film soundtracks in the background.

This visit is perfect for cinephiles and families, offering an immersive and playful experience that lets you relive the most magical moments of international cinema.

ℹ️ Practical information

Access: City center, right next to the candy stand
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Includes: Entry ticket to FantaCinema Genoa
Tip: Allow 1–2 hours to fully enjoy the exhibition and immersive sets

Ticket – FantaCinema

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Movie lovers, don’t miss the chance to get your FantaCinema ticket in Genoa. Enjoy an exhibition showcasing original props, posters, and artifacts from some of the most important science fiction films in history.

Price per person → $7

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Christopher Columbus house

Genoa cruise port excursions

Don’t miss the guided tour of the Christopher Columbus House! It’s the perfect opportunity to travel back in time and discover the youth of one of history’s most famous explorers.

Located near the Porta Soprana, this modest house is full of history. It’s here that Christopher Columbus grew up alongside his father, in the heart of old Genoa.

During a guided tour of about 1 hour, you’ll explore a unique museum featuring:

Period objects: instruments and everyday items from the 15th century.
Maritime maps: depicting the routes explored by Columbus.
Letters and historical documents: exceptional archives related to the explorer.
Workshop and living spaces: full immersion into Christopher Columbus’ daily life, from the ground floor to the upper floor.

Ticket – Guided tour Christopher Columbus house

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 758 reviews

If you are in Genoa, you cannot miss this guided tour of Christopher Columbus House. During the activity, you’ll learn about the life of this famous Italian explorer, undoubtedly one of the most renowned figures in history.

Price per person → $11

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Genoa electric bike tour

This year, we received many requests for bike rides during your shore excursions. Hop on an electric bike and explore the beautiful city of Genoa without too much effort! Immerse yourself in the city’s unique atmosphere and lively streets.

Route – The tour starts at 121 Via di Prè. You’ll pick up the electric bikes on site and set off to discover Genoa, combining sightseeing with an enjoyable activity.

During the ride, you’ll see the main city attractions, including the San Lorenzo Cathedral, guarded by two majestic stone lions, Banchi and De Ferrari squares, and the famous Via Garibaldi, all unmissable sites with undeniable charm.

To experience the authentic soul of Genoa, the tour will take you through small picturesque, steep alleys to the fishermen’s neighborhood of Boccadasse. There, you can enjoy at your own expense a handcrafted gelato or a cone of fried fish, two iconic local specialties.

The ride lets you explore 19th-century historic Genoa and its old town while enjoying a pleasant and memorable experience.

ℹ️ Practical information

Duration – 2h30
Starting point – 121 Via di Prè, Genoa
Activity type – Electric bike ride through the city center and old town
Sights – San Lorenzo Cathedral, Banchi and De Ferrari squares, Via Garibaldi, Boccadasse neighborhood
Snack break – Gelato or fried fish cone in Boccadasse (at your own expense)

Ticket – Guided tour of Genoa by electric bike

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 758 reviews

Hop on an electric bike and explore the stunning city of Genoa without too much effort! You’ll likely be charmed by the atmosphere and vibrant life of the city.

Price per person → $64

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Bocadasse district

Genoa cruise port excursions

Now let’s talk about the charming neighborhood of Boccadasse.

Getting there is simple: from Piazza Verdi, near the Genoa Brignole train station, take bus #31 toward Levante. You can also walk about 20 minutes, following Viale Brigate Partigiane to Piazzale Kennedy, from where the Corso Italia promenade leads to Boccadasse a pleasant walk with stunning viewpoints along the way.

Upon arrival, you’ll find a little Mediterranean gem. Boccadasse is a former fishing village frozen in time, with pastel-colored houses seemingly huddled together, narrow streets, small boats resting on the pebbles, and a beach where locals still come to read, sunbathe, or enjoy an ice cream with their families.

This neighborhood has a soul and a subtle yet persistent charm. You’ll find delicious seafood restaurants, artisan gelaterias, and small cafés overlooking the sea. It’s a place to stroll, relax, and often… stay a little longer than planned.

For me, it’s the most endearing neighborhood in Genoa. It’s not spectacular it’s better than that: it’s genuine. And it’s probably where Genoa shows itself most sincerely.

Albertis Castle

Genoa cruise port excursions

The Albertis Castle, an iconic Gothic-style building, majestically overlooks the city of Genoa. Built in a Neo-Gothic style at the end of the 1800s and beginning of the 1900s, the castle impresses with its unique architecture and beautiful gardens.

Today, it houses the Museum of World Cultures, offering an immersive experience of cultures and traditions from around the globe. The museum features a collection of objects, artifacts, and testimonies that trace the history and diversity of peoples worldwide.

The highlight of the castle is its keep and balcony, providing a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and surroundings. It’s a perfect spot to combine culture, history, and stunning scenery. Fun fact: it wasn’t until my sixth visit to Genoa that I realized this castle existed (yes, I admit it took me a while to discover it 😄).

How to get there?

Transport	Details From the cruise port – total duration: about 35 minutes.
Bus	– Bus 39v toward Vesuvio sup. – Travel time: 11 minutes (8 stops). – Stop: Dogali 2/BASSI. – Walk 1 minute (26 m) to the castle.
Taxi	– $17.5 for a 10–12 minute ride. – Convenient if traveling in a group or with luggage.
Tourist Bus	– Option to take the tourist bus for an easier ride while sightseeing the city.

Whale & Dolphin watching

Genoa cruise port excursions

Embark on an adventure in the Pelagos Sanctuary, off the coast of Genoa, for a unique whale and dolphin watching experience. This excursion lets you encounter dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Led by an experienced marine biologist, this outing is both educational and thrilling. You will learn about cetacean behavior, their environment, and the conservation efforts underway in the Mediterranean.

Don’t miss the chance to:

Observe cetaceans up close: dolphins, whales, and other marine mammals in their natural environment.
Benefit from the marine biologist’s explanations: insights into behavior, ecology, and species protection.
Admire the landscapes of the Gulf of Genoa: spectacular views and incredible photo opportunities from the boat.

ℹ️ Practical information

Duration – About 5 hours to maximize your chances of spotting whales and dolphins.
Departure – From the port of Genoa (5-minute walk from the city center). Arrive 30 minutes before departure.
What to bring – Comfortable clothing and a windbreaker; binoculars or a camera to make the most of the excursion.

Ticket – Pelagos Sanctuary excursion

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 758 reviews

Discover the world of cetaceans in the Pelagos Sanctuary on a whale-watching cruise with a marine biologist guide. Head offshore to maximize your chances of seeing these impressive creatures.

Price per person → $47

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Portofino

Genoa cruise port excursions

Portofino is a charming coastal village on the Italian Riviera, famous for its colorful houses along the harbor and picturesque atmosphere. This small fishing village has become an iconic destination, combining natural beauty, history, and an exclusive ambiance.

Stroll through the village to admire the narrow streets and colorful facades, visit elegant shops, and enjoy cafes and restaurants offering stunning sea views.

Don’t miss:

Stroll along the harbor – Admire fishing boats and luxury yachts while soaking in Portofino’s unique atmosphere.
Climb to Castello Brown – This historic fortress offers spectacular panoramic views of the harbor and the Mediterranean.
Visit San Giorgio Church – Perched on the hill, it provides stunning views and houses relics of Saint George.
Enjoy the viewpoints – Several spots offer unforgettable photo opportunities of the village and surrounding coastline.

ℹ️ Practical information

Excursion duration – About 5 hours, planned to return to the port on time.
Access – Approximately 1 hour drive from the port of Genoa; accessible via organized tour or by car/bus.
Best time to visit – Morning to avoid crowds and enjoy panoramic views.
Tip – Comfortable shoes recommended for cobbled streets and small climbs to viewpoints and San Giorgio Church.

Ticket – Round-Trip Transfer Genoa ↔ Portofino

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 758 reviews

Enjoy an open-top bus tour along the coast from Genoa to enchanting Portofino with this round-trip transfer. Discover Riviera di Levante, Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Rapallo, then explore Portofino at your own pace.

Price per person → $76

✅ Check Availability – Book Now

Getting around

Good news: in Genoa, the cruise terminal is very close to the historic center. In just a 15-minute walk, you can reach the old town and the Old Port (Porto Antico). If you enjoy walking, you won’t need any transportation to see the main sights!

Mode	Practical Information
Walking	Ideal for exploring the city center – Aquarium, Via Garibaldi, San Lorenzo Cathedral, Palazzo Ducale. 15–20 min from the port.
Public Transport	Buses & 1 metro line, convenient for Boccadasse or Brignole. Ticket – $2 valid for 110 minutes.
Taxi	Easy to find at the terminal. ≈ $12–19 to the city center. Convenient if short on time or traveling with family.
Bike / Scooter	Electric options available for rent. Perfect to explore effortlessly and reach Boccadasse.
Tourist Bus	Hop-on hop-off option. Not essential, but appreciated by cruise passengers who prefer less walking.
Funicular	Quick access to the hills and scenic views. Public elevators included in the AMT ticket.

👉 In summary: if you enjoy walking, you won’t need transportation to enjoy Genoa. Otherwise, buses, taxis, or electric bikes are simple and affordable alternatives.

Genoa funicular

The Zecca–Righi funicular is one of the most typical ways to gain elevation in Genoa. In just 12 minutes, it connects the historic center to the Righi hills and offers spectacular views of the city and port.

From the top station, you can access the Parco delle Mura and its trails, or simply enjoy the large panoramic terrace. On the way, the Carbonara stop allows you to reach the famous Spianata Castelletto, while the Madonnetta stop features a charming sanctuary with a permanent nativity scene.

Where to catch the funicular?

On foot: about 29 minutes’ walk (with many stairs). Not the most comfortable option if you are in a hurry or with children.
By bus: take line 36, a 5-minute walk from the port, and get off at Firenze 4/San Nicola, right next to the funicular.
By taxi: about 10 minutes to reach Zecca station directly.

ℹ️ Practical information

Trip duration: 12 minutes (278 m elevation).
Hours: daily from 6:40 AM to midnight.
Fare: urban transport ticket (≈ $2 for 110 minutes, or $12 for 24 hours).
Departure: Zecca station
Must-see: views from Righi + Spianata Castelletto.

Activities

Stopover in Genoa

Make the most of your stopover in Genoa by discovering the city’s best activities. From cultural visits to historical walks, as well as gourmet or unique experiences, there is something for everyone. Whether you stay in the historic center or explore the surroundings, your stopover will be rich and memorable.

Popular activities for cruise passengers:

Old Port of Genoa (Porto Antico) – Stroll along the renovated port, explore the Aquarium, the Bigo, and enjoy the maritime atmosphere.
Palazzo Ducale – Visit this iconic cultural and artistic center, with its exhibitions and stunning architecture.
Via Garibaldi and Palazzi dei Rolli – Admire the Renaissance palaces listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites and their rich art collections.
Maddalena District – Wander through narrow, colorful streets with shops, cafés, and local businesses.
Villetta di Negro – A green stroll perched on a hill, offering beautiful views of the city and port.
Electric bike rides – Explore the city effortlessly and discover its main sights and picturesque neighborhoods.
Coastal excursions – Head to Boccadasse or along the coast to enjoy the scenery and local cuisine.
Whale and dolphin watching – For sea lovers, boat trips allow you to observe dolphins and whales in the Gulf of Genoa.