Genoa and it’s labyrinth of caruggi
“Getting lost in Genoa is easy but is surely one of the city’s pleasures, because you never know what you’ll find; there are surprises around every corner!”
The caruggi are the narrow alleys that form a labyrinth in the historic center of Genoa. They are also a reflection of the multicultural and maritime heritage of the city, where different people and influences have coexisted for centuries. They are full of surprises!
Some fun facts about Genoa's caruggi:
- The caruggi date back to the Middle Ages, when Genoa was a powerful maritime republic and needed to defend itself from attacks. The caruggi were designed to confuse invaders and allow the locals to escape or ambush them.
- The caruggi are divided into two main areas: the Molo, which is closer to the port and has a more commercial and cosmopolitan character, and the Maddalena, which is more residential and aristocratic.
- The caruggi are home to some of the most important monuments and museums of Genoa, such as the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the Palazzo Ducale, the Palazzo Rosso, the Palazzo Bianco, and the Palazzo Spinola.
- The caruggi are also a place to enjoy the local cuisine, especially the famous pesto alla genovese, which was invented here. You can also try other specialties, such as focaccia, farinata, pansoti, and trofie.
- The caruggi are a living expression of the Genoese culture and identity, where you can hear the local dialect, see the traditional crafts, and admire the street art.
"It is a place that 'grows upon you' every day. There seems to be always something to find out in it. There are the most extraordinary alleys and by-ways to walk about in. You can lose your way (what a comfort that is, when you are idle!) twenty times a day, if you like; and turn up again, under the most unexpected and surprising difficulties. It abounds in the strangest contrasts; things that are picturesque, ugly, mean, magnificent, delightful, and offensive, break upon the view at every turn." - Charles Dickens
We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. This city grew on us the longer we immersed ourselves in it’s web, eventually winning our hearts.
