The direct experience of artworks is fundamental to understand, appreciate and enjoy art. Like other Italian cities, Genoa offers many extraordinary possibilities to see masterpieces from the past in their original context. On this page you can find suggestions and information to discover its treasures.
Genoa historical center is mostly medieval and there are many interesting building from that age to see. Paintings and sculptures from Middle Ages are on display at Museo di Sant'Agostino.
The richest season of Genoa art history is the Baroque age, when a few wealthy aristocratic families of traders and bankers established their power and celebrated their success by becoming keen art collectors and patrons. Titian, Peter Paul Rubens, Anton van Dyck and Caravaggio painted for them and had a strong influence of local masters. Some of their artworks are on display in the following museums, within the wonderful frame of the ancient aristocratic residences with their original furniture and fresco decorations.
19th century and early 20th century art is documented by the following galleries and by the largest outdoor sculpture museum in Europe, Staglieno cemetery.
Contemporary art in Genoa is represented by some private galleries, a civic museum, Villa Croce (with an art library open to the public) and a foundation, Fondazione Remotti, located in Camogli. In spite of their diversity, contemporary art galleries are connected in a circuit called Start that in autumn organizes the collective opening of the exhibition season. On that website is available a map of the galleries and the links to their websites. Among them, pinksummer is working since 2000 within the international art scene at the highest standard level.
Art from different cultures is on display at the Museum of World Cultures Castello D'Albertis, where you can have a breathtaking view on the city. A beautiful collection of ancient art from Japan, China and Siam is hosted by Museo Chiossone.
Among the public libraries spread all over the city of Genoa, the central Biblioteca Berio has a good choice of art books and English books that can be borrowed by getting a free card. The catalogue is available online here.
You
do not have to go too far from school to see art though. ISG’s building itself
is an interesting example of modern architecture. Designed by Andrea Mor and
Angelo Sibilla, it was realized in 1968 as a monastery for the Fathers
Benedictine monks community. The project combines traditional local elements
and materials with imposing volumes and evident linear structures of reinforced
concrete. One of its most characteristic feature is the tower, where the art
room is currently located, reminding of the famous Torre Velasca in Milan,
designed by the group B.B.P.R. in 1958.
For more informations about events and workshop for boys, girls, children and families, please visit Palazzo Ducale and Genoese museums websites