Palazzi dei Rolli Genoa
Genoa's Palazzi dei Rolli: UNESCO-listed aristocratic residences showcasing Renaissance & Baroque splendor, once hosting royalty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Special access & tours
Palazzi dei Rolli Genoa
Best Time
Special access & tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Genoa's Palazzi dei Rolli: UNESCO-listed aristocratic residences showcasing Renaissance & Baroque splendor, once hosting royalty.
"Wander through the majestic Palazzi dei Rolli, once reserved for nobles and visiting royalty."
🎯 Book Rolli Days Tickets Early
These special event tickets sell out fast! Plan ahead to secure your spot for unique access.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking through historic streets and palace interiors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Via Garibaldi's Grandeur
Via Garibaldi
Wander down this UNESCO-listed street, a breathtaking showcase of Renaissance and Baroque palaces.
Palazzo Rosso's Art Collection
Palazzo Rosso
Admire masterpieces by Veronese, Van Dyck, and Guercino within this opulent former noble residence.
Palazzo Bianco's Artistic Treasures
Palazzo Bianco
Explore a rich collection of Ligurian and European art, from medieval to Baroque periods.
Palazzo Doria Tursi's Architecture
Palazzo Doria Tursi
Marvel at the impressive architecture and grand courtyards of this significant Rolli palace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Palazzi dei Rolli
Understanding the Rolli System
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Rolli Days Tickets Early
These special event tickets sell out fast! Plan ahead to secure your spot for unique access.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking through historic streets and palace interiors.
📸 Capture the Baroque Interiors
The ornate frescoes, stucco work, and furniture are incredibly photogenic.
🗺️ Download a City Map
Navigating the historic center can be tricky; a map or app is essential.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Rolli Days Tickets Early
These special event tickets sell out fast! Plan ahead to secure your spot for unique access.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking through historic streets and palace interiors.
📸 Capture the Baroque Interiors
The ornate frescoes, stucco work, and furniture are incredibly photogenic.
🗺️ Download a City Map
Navigating the historic center can be tricky; a map or app is essential.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Palazzi dei Rolli for their stunning architecture, opulent interiors, and historical significance, especially during Rolli Days. The unique system of aristocratic hospitality is a highlight, offering a glimpse into Genoa's past glory. Some find access limited outside of special events, and navigating the historic center can be a challenge for some.
"It stands out from the other buildings on the street because of its light and dark striped façade, harmonizing with the cathedral. It is also the only one of the ancient buildings that was not significantly altered during the redevelopment of Via San Lorenzo in the mid-19th century; the façade was restored in 2001 and today stands in all its splendor."
Angelo G. Valle
"Seventeenth-century palace located right next to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Built for Sinibaldo Fieschi, it then passed to the Negrone, the De Mari and finally the De Ferrari families. The small square in front favors the appreciation of the elegant lines and decorations of its beautiful two-tone facade. It should be noted that in the mid-nineteenth century the building was "cut" by about 3 meters to widen the road in front. The facade was then dismantled and rebuilt after making the building smaller! The consequences of this cut can be clearly seen in a room on the main floor. This floor is still used as a private residence and can therefore only be visited in special cases (such as the Rolli Days) or in the case of renting the premises for events. The hall and the rooms are decorated with elegant frescoes of mythological subjects, the work of Domenico Piola and Sebastiano Galeotti. The palace also has a lift."
Daniele Musso
"A magnificent structure, definitely worth seeing!"
Prefabrik Evim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palazzi dei Rolli are primarily located in Genoa's historic center, particularly along Via Garibaldi. You can easily reach this area by walking from the city center or using public transport. Several bus lines stop near Via Garibaldi. If arriving by train, the Genova Piazza Principe or Genova Brignole stations are within walking distance or a short bus ride away.
Yes, the Palazzi dei Rolli are concentrated in the historic center, making them very walkable. Via Garibaldi is the main artery, and many other palaces are just a short stroll away. 
Driving in Genoa's historic center is challenging due to narrow streets and ZTL (limited traffic zones). It's highly recommended to park outside the center and walk or use public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many Palazzi dei Rolli are private residences and not always open to the public. However, during 'Rolli Days,' specific palaces offer guided tours for a fee or sometimes for free. Check the official 'Rolli Days' website for current pricing and schedules.
Regular access to most Palazzi dei Rolli is limited as they are private homes. The best time to visit is during the 'Rolli Days' events, which occur a few times a year and grant access to many of these historic buildings.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book tickets in advance for Rolli Days, as popular palaces and tours can sell out quickly. Visit the official 'Rolli Days' website for booking information.
No, while Genoa has 144 Palazzi dei Rolli, only 42 of them were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2006. These are considered the most significant examples of this unique architectural system.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary by palace. Some may allow non-flash photography, while others might restrict it, especially in areas with delicate artworks. Always check for signage or ask staff before taking pictures.
Via Garibaldi itself offers stunning exterior views. Inside, focus on the grand staircases, ornate ceilings, frescoes, and courtyards. The contrast of light and shadow can create dramatic shots.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Palazzi dei Rolli were built by Genoa's wealthy noble families to house visiting dignitaries, showcasing the Republic's power and prestige. They represent a unique urban planning concept where private palaces served public functions.
Expect lavish interiors with stunning frescoes, intricate stucco work, marble staircases, grand courtyards, and opulent furnishings. Many palaces offer a glimpse into the lives of Genoa's aristocracy.
Yes, especially during Rolli Days, guided tours are widely available and highly recommended to understand the history and significance of each palace. Some palaces may also offer independent audio guides.
Rolli Days are special events held a few times a year where many of Genoa's Palazzi dei Rolli open their doors to the public, often with guided tours, exhibitions, and cultural events. It's the best opportunity to explore these UNESCO sites.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Look for palaces with impressive courtyards where children can imagine knights and royalty. The sheer size of the staircases and the vibrant colors in the paintings can also capture their attention. Pack snacks and water, as exploring can be tiring, and remember that some palaces may have restrictions on running or loud noises.
🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
+1Prioritize visiting the Palazzi Rosso, Bianco, and Doria Tursi, which house significant art collections and are often open for regular visits. During Rolli Days, seek out palaces known for their exceptional frescoes by masters like Domenico Piola and Sebastiano Galeotti, or those with unique historical narratives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique System of the Palazzi dei Rolli
Today, many of these palaces are still private residences, adding an element of exclusivity to visits. However, the 'Rolli Days' initiative has been instrumental in making these treasures accessible to the public. During these events, a selection of these historic buildings opens its doors, offering guided tours that delve into their rich history, art, and architecture. This allows visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of Genoa's Golden Age.
+1Out of the 144 palaces originally listed, 42 have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These include some of the most iconic structures along Via Garibaldi, showcasing a remarkable concentration of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Exploring these palaces provides a deep insight into the urban planning, artistic patronage, and social structure of the Republic of Genoa during its peak.
Exploring Via Garibaldi: Genoa's Noble Street
+1Walking down Via Garibaldi is like stepping into a living museum. Each palace tells a story of the powerful families who commissioned them, such as the Grimaldi, Doria, and Spinola families. Visitors can admire the architectural harmony of the street, where buildings are designed to impress and to provide suitable accommodation for visiting royalty and ambassadors. The sheer scale and artistic richness of these palaces are a testament to Genoa's historical importance.
+1Beyond the exteriors, many palaces on Via Garibaldi house important art collections and museums, such as Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco. These institutions offer a deeper dive into the art and history of the region, displaying works by renowned artists. Experiencing Via Garibaldi is essential for understanding the architectural and cultural legacy of Genoa.
Social
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