Genoa, the capital of Liguria, is a city with a unique charm, rich in history, art, and culture. Its historic center, one of the largest in Europe, is a maze of caruggi, narrow medieval alleyways that tell the story of centuries of maritime and mercantile life. The city was a powerful maritime republic during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, dominating trade across the Mediterranean. Among its most famous landmarks are the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, with its impressive marble façade, and the Palazzo Ducale, now a venue for exhibitions and cultural events. The Old Port, redesigned by architect Renzo Piano, is a lively area home to the Aquarium of Genoa—one of the largest in Europe—as well as museums that celebrate the city’s maritime history.