The Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli in Genoa

The Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli in Genoa

The Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli in the historic centre of Genoa (late 16th and early 17th centuries) represent the first urban development project in Europe carried out within a unified framework. The palaces were built by the wealthiest and most powerful noble families of the Republic of Genoa during a period when the city’s financial power and naval prowess were at their peak. This site includes Renaissance palaces and Baroque buildings lining what was called the “Strada Nuova,” now known as Via Garibaldi. These magnificent residential palaces were constructed in the late 16th century along the new street (today’s Via Garibaldi), where one-fourth of the nobility resided. According to the constitution of 1528, these noble families took over the governance of the Republic.

The palaces typically have three or four floors, with grand open staircases and large courtyards. Each floor features a small balcony overlooking the garden. The influence of this urban design style is reflected in Italian and European literature of the following decades. The system of palaces offers various architectural solutions and holds universal value in adapting to the unique characteristics of the site and the specific socio-economic organization. It also set a precedent for establishing public reception rooms to host visiting foreign dignitaries. To this end, in 1576, the Senate officially issued a decree requiring the owners of these palaces to host state visits, thus facilitating the dissemination of architectural models and residential culture among renowned artists and visitors. A classic example is the series of works by the painter Pieter Paul Rubens.

Genoa: Le Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Roll

Why you must visit: The first urban development project in Europe carried out within a unified framework

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Italy[Italy]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Liguria Region [Liguria Region]