Rolli Days 2026: over 70,000 visitors for UNESCO 20th anniversary in

Rolli Days 2026: over 70,000 visitors for UNESCO 20th anniversary

The spring edition of Rolli Days, themed "Share and Protect" to mark the 20th anniversary of the UNESCO listing, took place from 27 to 29 March 2026. The event attracted a large audience with more than 70,000 visits, underlining the appeal of Genoa’s monumental heritage.

Visitor profile and reach

Attendance showed a wide geographic spread: visitors came from 92 Italian provinces, alongside a notable international presence. Approximately 60.3% of attendees were first-time visitors, highlighting successful outreach and promotional efforts.

New openings and highlighted palaces

This edition featured several special openings that drew substantial interest:

• Badia di Sant’Andrea and the Cornigliano monastic complex;
• Grotta Pavese Doria, a remarkable example of sixteenth-century polylithic garden grottos;
• Key historic residences such as Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Tobia Pallavicino, Palazzo Nicolosio Lomellino and Palazzo Bianco.

The opening of Grotta Pavese Doria caps ongoing conservation and awareness efforts focused on these rare structures.

Cultural programme and city events

More than a hundred scientific communicators from across Italy acted as mediators of the city’s art and history, while Rolli Live flash mobs animated via Garibaldi. Notable activities included:

• A musical tribute to Gino Paoli;
• Open Piano — two pianos available to the public at Palazzo Tursi and Palazzo Lercari Parodi (10:00–18:00).

Institutional views

City representatives emphasized that the event’s results confirm the value of making historic palaces accessible: it strengthens local identity, attracts new visitors and supports sustainable cultural tourism. The strong turnout, including many young people, was cited as proof that investment in quality programming, research and outreach pays off.

The 2026 Rolli Days illustrate a model that combines knowledge, shared care of heritage and inclusive cultural mediation to broaden participation and appreciation of monumental sites.