The Strada Nuova Museum

The Strada Nuova Museums, located in the heart of Genoa, represent an exceptional example of a “street museum,” recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This unique museum complex offers a fascinating journey through Genoese history, art, and architecture, focusing particularly on the “Palazzi dei Rolli.” The museum itinerary winds through three historic noble palaces: Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Tursi (or Palazzo Doria Tursi). These buildings, constructed beginning in the mid-16th century, were once the residences of some of the most influential aristocratic families of Genoa, bearing witness to the Republic’s period of greatest economic and political splendor, often called the “Golden Century.”

Palazzo Rosso, whose name derives from the color of its original plaster, was the residence of the noble Brignole-Sale family. This palace is renowned for its sumptuous halls frescoed by prominent artists such as Gregorio De Ferrari and Domenico Piola. The frescoes, which adorn ceilings and walls, narrate mythological stories, allegories, and family celebrations, offering a vivid glimpse into the life and tastes of the Genoese aristocracy. The art collections include masterpieces by Veronese, Guido Reni, Antoon van Dyck, and other European masters.

Palazzo Bianco, acquired by the Municipality of Genoa in the 19th century, became an important art gallery. Its collections range from Genoese and Ligurian art—with works by Luca Cambiaso and Bernardo Strozzi—to Flemish and Dutch paintings, including works by Rubens and Jan Steen. Although less richly frescoed than Palazzo Rosso, it preserves interesting pictorial cycles that document the stylistic evolution of the time.

Palazzo Tursi, now the seat of Genoa’s City Hall, completes the museum itinerary. This imposing building, originally the residence of the Doria Tursi family, stands out for its majestic architecture and civic collections. Among the treasures on display is the famous violin of Niccolò Paganini, known as “Il Cannone,” along with a rich collection of Genoese ceramics and ancient textiles. Palazzo Tursi also houses original frescoes and decorations that testify to the opulence of Genoese residences.

The distinctiveness of the Strada Nuova Museums lies in the very concept of the “street museum.” Via Garibaldi (formerly Strada Nuova), on which these palaces stand, was conceived in the 16th century as a monumental axis celebrating the wealth and prestige of Genoese families. The “Palazzi dei Rolli” were part of a unique system of public hospitality established by the Republic of Genoa. These private palaces were entered in public lists (“Rolli”) and, in rotation, hosted diplomats and distinguished guests visiting the city, showcasing Genoa’s magnificence and hospitality. The frescoes found in these palaces are not only works of inestimable artistic value but also historical documents reflecting the culture, aspirations, and social status of the families who commissioned them. They form an integral part of the artistic and architectural heritage of the Strada Nuova Museums, creating an immersive experience of Genoa during its golden age.

Thus, the Strada Nuova Museums are not merely a collection of artworks but a complete cultural experience that allows visitors to understand the grandeur of Genoa and its role in European history—literally walking through the homes and stories of the families who shaped the city’s destiny.

Address: Via Garibaldi, 18, Genoa

Opening hours:

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday to Friday: 09:00 – 18:00
• Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 – 18:30

Tickets:

• Full: €9.00
• Reduced: €7.00
  Admission is free for visitors under 18 and for Genoa residents on Sundays.

Contacts:

• Phone: +39 010 275 9185

Website: www.visitgenoa.it/it/musei-di-strada-nuova-0

Cover photo credits: trabantos