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De Ferrari Square is located in the heart of Genoa, and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and significant squares in the city. A landmark for the Genoese and a mandatory stop for visitors who want to discover the beauty and history of Liguria.
What to see in De Ferrari Square? Much more than you can imagine! The square, named after the famous Genoese banker and entrepreneur Raffaele De Ferrari, is a must-see tourist attraction with several historical monuments, cultural buildings and works of art ranging from the Renaissance to contemporary times. Let's explore its hidden treasures.
Piazza De Ferrari is only 1 km from Hotel Astoria. You can reach it easily on foot, in about 15 minutes, or by taking advantage of the subway or buses leaving from Genova Brignole station.
The fountain
The focal point of the square is the majestic fountain, designed by Genoese architect Giuseppe Crosa di Vergagni in 1936, which is considered a masterpiece of modern art and a symbol of Genoa.
It consists of a central basin made of a single block of bronze, in the center of which rises a large gush of water. The basin, supported by six pillars, is placed in the center of a polygonal basin from which a series of masks pour water into a second circular basin, surrounded in turn by a third basin that is also circular.
The Palace of the Region of Liguria
The Palace of the Region of Liguria is one of the main buildings facing the square. It was built in 1912 and was commissioned by the then Bank of Genoa. In 1970 it was acquired by the Region of Liguria, becoming the headquarters of the regional government. The neoclassical-style building was designed by architect Marcello Piacentini and features an imposing facade and an inner courtyard decorated with statues and columns.
Ducal Palace
The Ducal Palace was built in the 14th century as the residence of the doges of Genoa, and was later used as a court, prison, and barracks. In 1992 it was completely restored and now houses important art and cultural exhibitions. The facade is Gothic in style and features a white marble portal decorated with figures of saints and prophets.
The Palazzo del Credito Italiano
The Palazzo del Credito Italiano was built in 1895, designed by the famous architect Gino Coppedè. The eclectic-style building has a highly decorated facade with statues and bas-reliefs. The building originally housed the headquarters of the Credito Italiano bank, now UniCredit.
The Palace of the New Stock Exchange
The Palace of the New Stock Exchange was built in 1912, designed by architect Dario Carbone. The Art Nouveau-style building features a facade richly decorated with sculptures and wrought-iron details. Today it houses the Chamber of Commerce of Genoa.
De Ferrari Palace
Palazzo De Ferrari is one of the most important buildings in the square. Built in 1906, it was designed by architect Vittorio Alinari. The neoclassical-style building has an imposing facade with a white marble portal and numerous decorations. Today it is the headquarters of Genoa City Hall.
Carlo Felice Theater
The Carlo Felice Theater is one of the most important theaters in Italy. Built in 1828 to a design by architect Carlo Barabino, it was completely destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt in 1991. The theater has hosted some of the world's greatest operas and ballets and is famous for its perfect acoustics.
The Ligustica Academy of Fine Arts
Founded in 1751, the Ligustica Academy of Fine Arts has been a landmark for Genoese artists for more than two centuries. Today, it hosts numerous exhibitions, displays and art workshops that allow visitors to discover the history of art in Liguria and admire the works of the region's most representative artists.
The Academy building is a true architectural jewel, located in front of the Ducal Palace, it houses numerous rooms frescoed and decorated with works of art of great value. Inside you can admire the works of some of Liguria's greatest artists, such as Francesco Maria Schiaffino, Domenico Piola, and Bernardo Strozzi.