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Harbor · Gênova, Liguria
Porto Antico
Former area of Genoa’s port, transformed into a public promenade by Renzo Piano for the 1992 celebrations, featuring the Bigo, the aquarium and the quay.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Porto Antico
The Porto Antico is the oldest part of Genoa’s port, facing the historic centre. For the 1992 celebrations, which marked the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s voyage, Genoese architect Renzo Piano redesigned the area and opened it to pedestrians.
The symbol of that redevelopment is the Bigo, a white structure with inclined arms inspired by the port’s cranes. Nearby is the Biosphere, a glass sphere suspended over the water. The same project includes the Acquario di Genova and the old warehouses converted into shops, a cinema and event spaces.
At the other end, in the Darsena building, is the Galata Museo del Mare, dedicated to navigation and the city’s maritime history, with a section on Italian emigration to the Americas. Facing Piazza Caricamento is the Palazzo San Giorgio, from the 13th century, with a painted façade.
The walk along the quay links these attractions on foot and is one of the spots most visited by Genoese people at dusk.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour to walk the quay; half a day or more if you include the aquarium and a museum.
Best time
At late afternoon, when local activity increases and the light falls over the port. Check opening times for the Bigo and the Biosphere, which vary by season.
How to get there
From Piazza De Ferrari, walk down the alleys of the historic centre to Piazza Caricamento in about 10 minutes. San Giorgio metro station is opposite.
Tip
Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, such as Piazza Caricamento on weekends. The benches on the quay are good for a break with focaccia.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Porto Antico
What is the Bigo?
It is the white structure with inclined arms created by Renzo Piano for 1992, inspired by the port’s cranes. It has a panoramic lift that operates part of the year; check before you go.
How to get to Porto Antico?
On foot from the historic center, about 10 minutes from Piazza De Ferrari, or by subway to San Giorgio station.