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Self Guided Podcast Tour The Phantom Empire of Genoa

Genoa, Italyby Red Thread

  • 1.7 hours
  • Free cancellation
  • Instant confirmation
  • Up to 99 travelers
  • Mobile or paper ticket accepted

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Overview

Discover the dual soul of Genoa, a city that ruled the waves and invented modern finance. On this sweeping journey, you will navigate the gritty, shadowed alleys of the ancient mariners and emerge into the blinding opulence of Europe's first true financial capital. Uncover how a rocky Italian port became a state within states, funding empires, outsmarting kings, and building palaces so grand they required royal courts to fill them. - A 2.2 km self-guided tour with 8 stops over 104 min - Ideal for travelers interested in History & Memory and Art, Design & Aesthetics - Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals - Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app

What's included

  • Verified facts woven into an engaging story
  • Interactive in-app guide for questions about the story and surroundings
  • Precise navigation between the stops
  • Immersive podcast-style audio featuring experts and locals

    Itinerary

    1. 1

      Palazzo Di San Giorgio

      10 min

      The ancient civic palace that became the world's first modern bank, funding explorers and empires.

    2. 2

      Loggia dei Mercanti

      10 min

      The 16th-century Wall Street where merchants traded commodities and expanded the maritime insurance market.

    3. 3

      Stop 3

      10 min

      A striking black-and-white cathedral built with Crusade wealth, housing what was once believed to be the Holy Grail.

    4. 4

      Piazza San Matteo

      10 min

      The perfectly preserved, private medieval square of the Doria family, rulers of Genoa's naval fleets.

    5. 5

      Musei di Strada Nuova - Palazzo Rosso

      10 min

      A lavish red palace on Via Garibaldi, showcasing the peak of the Rolli hospitality system.

    6. 6

      Musei di Strada Nuova - Palazzo Bianco

      10 min

      The elegant white rival to Palazzo Rosso, illustrating the intense architectural competition among Genoa's elite.

    7. 7

      Musei di Strada Nuova - Palazzo Doria Tursi

      10 min

      The most massive palace on the street, built by a Spanish banker, now housing the city hall and Paganini's violin.

    8. 8

      Spianata Castelletto

      10 min

      A panoramic terrace offering a sweeping view of the city, the port, and the legacy of La Superba.

    Meeting and pickup

    Meet at Palazzo San Giorgio by the main façade near the Old Port. Open the app at the meeting point to begin. The location is easy to reach on foot and by public transport.

    End point

    The tour ends at Spianata di Castelletto, the panoramic terrace above central Genoa. From here, return via the public lift or walk downhill toward the historic center.

    Good to know

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Cancellation policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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