<< Liguria
Genoa (Genova) is the capital and largest city in Liguria, and one of the most important economic and cultural centers in Italy, located at the southern corner of the Turin–Milan-Genoa industrial triangle. Inhabited since prehistoric times, it was originally founded by the Ligurians and later became a Roman town. A small center throughout the Early Middle Ages, Genoa rose to prominence in the 11th and 12th century after taking part in the Crusades. The Republic of Genoa became one of the richest trading and naval powers in Europe, rivaling Venice and establishing numerous colonies in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. After a period of decline, Genoa once again became a major power in the 16th century, under the rule of Andrea Doria, and in association with the Spanish Empire. Genoese banks were the main financiers of Spanish expeditions to America, and the city became one of the richest in Europe with the exploitation of the New World. However, Genoa slowly declined, losing its colonies and facing revolts and wars. The Republic of Genoa fell during the Napoleonic Wars, being initially replaced by the Ligurian Republic and then annexed by France. Genoa later became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia and then Italy. In the 19th century, the city became a major industrial and shipbuilding center, a role that it keeps to this day. Genoa is now also a popular tourist destination, thanks to its central position in Liguria and many historic attractions.
Subdivisions of Genoa
- Centro (Municipi Centro Est and Centro Ovest)
- Outskirts of Genoa (Municipi Bassa Val Bisagno, Media Val Bisagno, Levante, Medio Levante, Valpolcevera, Medio Ponente, Ponente)
Map of Genoa
