The Rolli Palaces, Genoa: A comprehensive guide

Built between the 16th and 17th centuries, the Genoese noble palaces were added to this “system” which runs through the heart of the city, beginning with the climb of Santa Caterina to get to Via Balbi, passing through Via Garibaldi, renamed Strada Nuova, Via Lomellini, San Luca, Piazza dell’Annunziata, Via Luccoli, and Piazza Banchi. A total of 42 palaces, out of more than 120 historic surveyed residences still standing in Genoa, have been named World Heritage Sites. What about the others? For the time being, the Rolli Association of the Republic of Genoa, the organization that brings together the owners of historic residences, is collecting signatures to gain prestigious recognition for the Rolli Palaces system. Members of the association, along with the City of Genoa, are devising a plan for the enhancement and restoration of the buildings. The magnificent residences of the historic city center and of Via Garibaldi were nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. UNESCO, during a meeting in Vilnius, Lithuania, in July 2006, added the Ligurian capital to the list of sites which have received international recognition.