Cultural Easter breaks in Genoa
Where better to celebrate Easter than in Italy? The country is steeped in religious traditions and customs which make for an interesting and unique experience for visitors.
For those in the know the region of Liguria and its capital Genoa is a hidden gem perfect for discovering in Spring. The mild climate, excellent cuisine, museums, galleries and medieval streets of Genoa all combine to make an exciting destination for a long weekend break over Easter.
Cathedrals and Churches
As with all Italian cities Genoa has many Easter celebrations with processions and traditional Easter Mass held on Easter Sunday. Worth joining in if just to visit the impressive buildings these rituals also give a glimpse into Italian life and culture.
San Lorenzo Cathedral
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo, reconstructed in Romanesque style during the 12th century, has since the time of the Crusades protected the ashes of Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of Genoa and is therefore Genoa’s most significant and famous religious building. The Museo del Tesoro is located in the basement of the Cathedral and holds precious relics whose stories have passed into legend including the Sacro Catino, a relic of the Last Supper, the plate which held the head of the Baptist and the magnificent tabernacle containing the ashes of saints.
Church of Gesù
This church, finished in 1500 for the Jesuit fathers, is worth a visit for the works of art it contains, incredible sculptures and works in stucco, while standing out among the many paintings are two altar pieces one by Rubens and one by Guido Reni.
Church of San Donato
The Chiesa di San Donato, built in the 11th and 12th centuries, is a masterpiece of Genoese Romanesque architecture, with its magnificent rose windows, protira on the façade, and octagonal bell tower. Inside are Roman columns and a gorgeous triptych, The Adoration of the Magi (16th century), by the Flemish painter Joos Veìan Cleeve.
Out and About in the City
Genoa is an easy city to walk about and exploring on foot is one of the best ways to get to know this multi cultural city.
Via Sottoripa was constructed in 1135 as a colonnade strictly for commercial activities. Today, it's a must to walk along these porticos to take in that what of the ancient atmosphere of the port and soak up the atmosphere over a typically strong Italian coffee.
Via Orefici is always alive with a colourful and varied crowd and boasts one of the most beautiful portals of the historic centre. Those with a sweet tooth that still have cravings after Easter chocolates should visit the Confetteria di Pietro Romanengo, a confectionary shop that is a Genoese institution which opened in 1780 and continues to be family-operated through seven generations.
Museums and Galleries
Palazzo Bianco Gallery
This impressive museum houses an important collection of European, Italian, and Genoese paintings from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries including masterpieces and paintings from Italy (Caravaggio, Veronese) and the Flemish school (Hans Memling, Gerard David, Jean Provost, Rubens, Van Dyck) plus a collection of Genoese paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Palazzo Rosso Gallery
Within the sumptuous confines of the ancient Genoese residence of Brignole-Sale is a gallery full of paintings, collected by the Rosso family over the course of two centuries. Some of the artists on display include Veronese, Guercino, Strozzi, Grechetto, Carbone and Van Dyck.
National Gallery at Palazzo Spinola
Inside the beautiful surroundings of a 16th century palazzo is a vast exhibit which combines the collections accumulated by the four families who lived in the palazzo - the Grimaldi’s, Pallavicino’s, Doria’s and Spinola’s. The gallery boasts works by the major Genoese, Flemish, and European artists.
Palazzo Ducale
In the 14th century, the Palazzo Ducale (Ducal Palace) was the residence of the first Doge of Genoa, Simon Boccanegra. From that time on, it became the Doges' seat of power. In the centuries that followed, it suffered severe damage and underwent many modifications, completely changing its appearance. Restored in 1992 for the Columbus Celebration, it has become one of the most important sites in Genoa and well worth a visit.
Accommodation and Flights
BA flies daily to Genoa from Gatwick and has flights departing on Friday 2nd April and returning Monday 5th April from £164 return including all taxes and charges - ba.com.
Ryanair also flies to Genoa from Stantsed and has flights departing on Friday 2nd April and returning Monday 5th April from £123.30 return including online check in and all taxes but not luggage - ryanair.com.
The five star 110 year old Grand Hotel Savoia situated on the Via Arsenale di Terra is located in walking distance of the all the major attractions and sites and is a Genoese institution. Rates start at €130 per night for a superior room based on two people sharing a double room with buffet breakfast included - grandhotelsavoiagenova.it.
The four star modern Hotel NH Marina on the Molo Ponte Calvi is located in the popular old port area of the city. Double rooms start from €149 per night based on two people sharing on a B&B basis - nh-hotels.com.
