Via Garibaldi is a well-known street in the historical centre of Genoa. Take a leisurely stroll to see beautiful palaces and historic houses on a road that was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006.
The picturesque Via Garibaldi dates back to the 16th century. It was originally called Strada Maggiore and later the name was changed to Strada Nuova. In the year 1882 the name was changed again to Via Garibaldi, in honour of the Italian general, politician and nationalist Giuseppe Garibaldi. Garibaldi played a major role in the history of the country and is considered one of the greatest generals of modern times. Go for walk and discover an interesting street that is around 820 feet (250 metres) long and 25 feet (7.5 metres) wide.
Discover some of the many splendid palaces in Via Garibaldi. One of the most significant is called Red Palace (Palazzo Rosso). This gorgeous construction was designed by the Italian architect Pietro Antonio Corradi and was built between 1671 and 1677. The Brignole Sale family owned the palace until 1874, when Maria Brignole Sale de Ferrari, duchess of Galliera, handed it to the city of Genoa to increase its artistic splendour. Visit this magnificent house and find one of the most important art galleries of the city.
Another elegant palace in Via Garibaldi is the White Palace (Palazzo Bianco). It houses another great art gallery that together with the galleries of the Palazzo Rosso and of the Palazzo Doria Tursi form a cluster of fantastic museums at the end of the street.
While you are in Via Garibaldi make sure you stop at some of the many cafés and food shops in the area. Try the great coffee and enjoy a traditional gelato while you walk past amazing constructions built centuries ago. Marvel at the beautiful details of these buildings and imagine life in Genoa in the 17th century.
