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Genoa, or Genova in the native Italian, is a port city on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in northern Italy. The capital of the Province of Genoa and of the region of Liguria, this gem of the Italian Riviera is not a common tourist destination. Those who do visit understand why it is called la Superba (the Superb one).

Genoa is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and of pesto. A city of climbing, twisting streets and alleys opening into small squares where wonderful shops and restaurants invite guests to stop for a coffee, a delicious meal or some shopping.

There are no records of when the area was first settled and the harbor first used, but a city cemetery, dating from the 4th century BC, is proof that the site was used by the Ancient Greeks.

History and modern living merge in this city where centuries of tradition serve as a backdrop to one of the finest modern universities. The Old Harbor (Porto Antico) is home to ferries that shuttle to Africa and other European ports and the Museo Galata, the biggest aquarium in Europe. An ancient lighthouse, Torre della Lanterna, still stands guard in the bustling port.

In Genoa's Piazza De Ferrari you can visit the Opera and the Palace of the Doges. Strada Nuova, now called Via Garibaldi is a World Heritage site designed in the mid-16th century lined with homes of the city's most eminent families, including Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, Palazzo Grimaldi and Palazzo Reale. The famous art college, Musei di Strada Nuova and the Palazzo del Principe are also located on this street.

St. Lawrence Cathedral and the famous cemetery of Staglieno, renowned for its monuments and statues are just two of the places that draw visitors. Work on the Romanesque style Cathedral of San Lorenzo is rumored to have been funded by loot brought home by the Crusaders an the fortunes made by Genovese shippers during the Crusades. The Cathedral was consecrated in 1118. The rich, multicolored patterns of marble used to build the outside of the Catheral create an unusual visual experience even before you enter. Once inside you discover a wealth of art treasures and architecture that melds light, color and space into an awe inspiring wholeness.

Genoa's Museo d'Arte Orientale has one of the largest collections of Oriental art in Europe and the Euroflora exhibition, held every five years, is one of the largest flower shows in the world.

Around the Web, discover more about the sights, sounds, aromas and the friendly locals of Genoa, with top online guides offering special looks by activities and events, related photo galleries, travel video, and more reasons why a trip to Genoa should be on any travelers must-see list:

Live web camera featuring Genoa - Enjoy this live webcam in Genoa, the Liguria Region of Italy, overlooking the historic and commercial Port of Genoa... updated every minute. Earthcam also offers a selection of live web cam views of the city and the region.

Italian Tourism - Liguria - The official tourism site offering an updated schedule of events, feature stories, pictures, guides to Italy by region, practical travel tips, extensive photo galleries, related links.

The American Women's Club of Genoa - A Genoa based American group, the site has a section on A Day in Genoa that provides a detailed walking tour through the historic sites hidden in the alleys and back streets of this Italian Riviera city. You'll also find great tips on what to see, where to eat and the history of Genoa.

PlanetWare.com > Europe > Italy > Genoa Tourism - Your complete guide to Genoa with facts, information and tips on hotels and accommodation, self guided walking tours, the old harbor, art museums, restaurants & shopping, nearby attractions, maps and pictures.

University of Genoa - The school profile and history from the 13th century through modern top university rankings for the undergrad and graduate schools.

Genoa Guide - An easy to use city guide from schmap.com includes a map with highlights pinpointed as well as good descriptions of the historic and modern tourist attractions you'll find in and around Genoa.

History of Christopher Columbus - From history.com, a nicely put together site on the explorer who, most agree, was born in Genoa and sailed the ocean blue in 1492 — landing on the shores of the North American continent.

Euroflora - Hosted in Genoa, this is one of the most important international flower and horticulture exhibitions in the world. The last Euroflora was held in 2006 and the next one will be in 2011.

Genoa travel blogs & articles

A Weekend in Genoa - A Genoa Travelogue by Ben Cooper

In Northern Italy, a Crossroads of Culinary Arts - NY Times

Genoa and the Italian Riviera - Fodors

La Riviera Di Ponente - From France to Genoa

also see -> Italy Beach Guide | Learn Italian | Cinque Terra

also see -> Christmas in Italy