Savona Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Savona
Once upon a time—or more precisely, a very long time ago—Savona sprang to life on the Ligurian coast. From its earliest days as a humble Ligurian tribal settlement, this city quickly found its sea legs, evolving into a Roman port known as Savo Oppidum Alpinum. Maritime trade thrived here, and so did competition with neighboring Genoa. By the Middle Ages, noble families like the Dorias steered Savona’s ships, fueling its rise as a commercial powerhouse. But history has its stormy waters—when Genoa finally had enough of Savona’s impertinence, they gave the city a pretty serious timeout in 1528, toppling fortifications and curbing its port activity.
Despite such setbacks, Savona would not sail quietly into obscurity. The city can claim not one, but two papal sons: Pope Sixtus IV, mastermind of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, and his ambitious nephew, Pope Julius II, whose Renaissance patronage gifted the world works by Michelangelo and Raphael.
By the Napoleonic era, Savona was under French control, playing host to a pope-in-exile, Pius VII, from 1809 to 1812. When Napoleon’s empire waned, Savona found itself incorporated into the Kingdom of Sardinia, and later into a unified Italy in 1861.
Today, this charming city blends its historic grit with coastal beauty. Explore the Priamar Fortress, a Genoese stronghold perched where Savona’s medieval heart once beat. Marvel at the Savona Cathedral’s artistic treasures or the lesser-known but equally significant Sistine Chapel of Savona. Take in the views from the medieval Leon Pancaldo Tower or stroll Corso Italia’s bustling shopping district. There’s also a Renaissance palace once owned by the powerful Della Rovere family, known for its grandiose architecture and historical significance
Ready to dive in? Follow our self-guided walking tour—it’s your ticket to uncovering all these attractions and more.
Despite such setbacks, Savona would not sail quietly into obscurity. The city can claim not one, but two papal sons: Pope Sixtus IV, mastermind of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, and his ambitious nephew, Pope Julius II, whose Renaissance patronage gifted the world works by Michelangelo and Raphael.
By the Napoleonic era, Savona was under French control, playing host to a pope-in-exile, Pius VII, from 1809 to 1812. When Napoleon’s empire waned, Savona found itself incorporated into the Kingdom of Sardinia, and later into a unified Italy in 1861.
Today, this charming city blends its historic grit with coastal beauty. Explore the Priamar Fortress, a Genoese stronghold perched where Savona’s medieval heart once beat. Marvel at the Savona Cathedral’s artistic treasures or the lesser-known but equally significant Sistine Chapel of Savona. Take in the views from the medieval Leon Pancaldo Tower or stroll Corso Italia’s bustling shopping district. There’s also a Renaissance palace once owned by the powerful Della Rovere family, known for its grandiose architecture and historical significance
Ready to dive in? Follow our self-guided walking tour—it’s your ticket to uncovering all these attractions and more.
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Savona Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Savona Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: Italy » Savona (See other walking tours in Savona)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 11
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Author: nataly
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Italy » Savona (See other walking tours in Savona)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 11
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Author: nataly
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Torre Leon Pancaldo (Leon Pancaldo Tower)
- Pinacoteca Civica (Municipal Art Gallery)
- Palazzo Della Rovere (Palace of Della Rovere)
- Torre del Brandale (Brandale Tower)
- Duomo di Savona (Savona Cathedral)
- Cappella Sistina (Sistine Chapel)
- Oratory of Our Lady of Castello
- Monumento ai Caduti (War Memorial)
- Corso Italia (Italy Avenue)
- Palazzo Delle Piane (Palace of Delle Piane)
- Fortezza del Priamar (Priamar Fortress)
1) Torre Leon Pancaldo (Leon Pancaldo Tower)
The Leon Pancaldo Tower, also known as the Torre della Quarda, is a medieval landmark that has stood as a symbol of Savona for centuries. Rising 23 meters high and 6 meters wide, this square tower once formed part of the city’s defensive walls, guarding the harbor. Named after Leon Pancaldo, a renowned navigator from Savona who sailed with Magellan on his first circumnavigation of the Earth, the tower is first mentioned in records from 1392. Following the destruction of Savona’s city walls by the Republic of Genoa in 1527, the tower was left standing in isolation and has undergone numerous modifications over time.
One of its most striking features is the fresco facing the sea, depicting the crest of the Republic of Genoa, a reminder of the city’s historical ties to its powerful neighbor. Below it, a niche houses a carving of Our Lady of Mercy, created by Filippo Parodi, while another statue of the Madonna watches over the entrance.
Now owned by the city council, the Leon Pancaldo Tower remains an important part of Savona’s heritage. It serves as the headquarters for the Italian National Association of Seafarers (ANMI), further reinforcing the city’s long-standing maritime identity.
One of its most striking features is the fresco facing the sea, depicting the crest of the Republic of Genoa, a reminder of the city’s historical ties to its powerful neighbor. Below it, a niche houses a carving of Our Lady of Mercy, created by Filippo Parodi, while another statue of the Madonna watches over the entrance.
Now owned by the city council, the Leon Pancaldo Tower remains an important part of Savona’s heritage. It serves as the headquarters for the Italian National Association of Seafarers (ANMI), further reinforcing the city’s long-standing maritime identity.
2) Pinacoteca Civica (Municipal Art Gallery)
The Municipal Art Gallery (Pinacoteca Civica) is housed in Palazzo Gavotti, an elegant 16th-century palace located in the city’s historic center. Built on the foundations of medieval structures, the palace was later modified in the 19th century, creating the refined space that now serves as one of Savona’s most important cultural institutions. With its two entrances opening onto the portico of Piazza Chabrol, the gallery spans two floors, offering visitors an impressive journey through centuries of artistic heritage.
The collection is particularly notable for its Renaissance masterpieces, including the extraordinary Crucifixion by Donato de' Bardi, a 15th-century work that represents a unique fusion of Flemish Ars Nova and Italian art. Visitors are welcomed by a striking polychrome wooden Crucifix and a marble bas-relief of the Madonna and Child, leading into the display of grand polyptychs such as the Pala Fornari by Vincenzo Foppa. These works highlight the artistic flourishing of Savona during the 15th and 16th centuries, a period greatly influenced by Pope Sixtus IV and Pope Julius II, both members of the Della Rovere family.
The collection also features 17th- and 18th-century Ligurian paintings, including mythological and religious works by renowned artists like Valerio Castello, Gioacchino Assereto, Giovanni Battista Carlone, Domenico Piola, Bartolomeo Guidobono, and Carlo Giuseppe Ratti.
Moving into the 19th century, the gallery showcases works by Nicolò Barabino and Giuseppe Frascheri, whose paintings embody the romantic and religious themes of the era. A particularly intriguing exhibit is Professor Renzo Mantero’s collection of icons, dedicated to the Gran Madre delle Tre Mani (Great Mother of Three Hands).
The collection is particularly notable for its Renaissance masterpieces, including the extraordinary Crucifixion by Donato de' Bardi, a 15th-century work that represents a unique fusion of Flemish Ars Nova and Italian art. Visitors are welcomed by a striking polychrome wooden Crucifix and a marble bas-relief of the Madonna and Child, leading into the display of grand polyptychs such as the Pala Fornari by Vincenzo Foppa. These works highlight the artistic flourishing of Savona during the 15th and 16th centuries, a period greatly influenced by Pope Sixtus IV and Pope Julius II, both members of the Della Rovere family.
The collection also features 17th- and 18th-century Ligurian paintings, including mythological and religious works by renowned artists like Valerio Castello, Gioacchino Assereto, Giovanni Battista Carlone, Domenico Piola, Bartolomeo Guidobono, and Carlo Giuseppe Ratti.
Moving into the 19th century, the gallery showcases works by Nicolò Barabino and Giuseppe Frascheri, whose paintings embody the romantic and religious themes of the era. A particularly intriguing exhibit is Professor Renzo Mantero’s collection of icons, dedicated to the Gran Madre delle Tre Mani (Great Mother of Three Hands).
3) Palazzo Della Rovere (Palace of Della Rovere)
The Palace of Della Rovere is a magnificent Renaissance residence with deep historical significance. Commissioned by Pope Julius II, originally Giuliano Della Rovere, the palace reflects the grandeur of 15th-century Italy. When he was forced to seek refuge in Savona after the election of Pope Alexander VI, the future pontiff envisioned a residence worthy of his status.
Over the centuries, the palace has served multiple roles. During the reign of Pope Alexander VII, it became the residence of the confessors of Saint Peter’s Basilica, known as the Penitenzieri. It later housed the Hotel Columbus and remains the headquarters of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.
The building features a massive façade reminiscent of Palazzo Venezia in Rome, with a northeast tower and windows bearing the name of Domenico della Rovere. The coat of arms on the façade, however, belongs to Pope Clement XIV. Recently, the Four Seasons hotel chain became the new tenant, bringing a modern function to this historical site.
Inside, the palace boasts a two-level courtyard, with the lower level featuring a portico with octagonal pillars and an ancient pit, while the upper level contains gardens. The interior decoration is remarkable, with frescoes depicting fictive architecture, a popular Renaissance motif. Among its artistic treasures, the Semi-Gods Ceiling, painted by Pinturicchio in 1490, stands out, showcasing mythological and allegorical figures.
Adding to its historical intrigue, archaeologists announced in July 2023 the discovery of the remains of the Theatre of Nero beneath the courtyard and gardens, further solidifying the palace’s place as a site of cultural and archaeological importance.
Over the centuries, the palace has served multiple roles. During the reign of Pope Alexander VII, it became the residence of the confessors of Saint Peter’s Basilica, known as the Penitenzieri. It later housed the Hotel Columbus and remains the headquarters of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.
The building features a massive façade reminiscent of Palazzo Venezia in Rome, with a northeast tower and windows bearing the name of Domenico della Rovere. The coat of arms on the façade, however, belongs to Pope Clement XIV. Recently, the Four Seasons hotel chain became the new tenant, bringing a modern function to this historical site.
Inside, the palace boasts a two-level courtyard, with the lower level featuring a portico with octagonal pillars and an ancient pit, while the upper level contains gardens. The interior decoration is remarkable, with frescoes depicting fictive architecture, a popular Renaissance motif. Among its artistic treasures, the Semi-Gods Ceiling, painted by Pinturicchio in 1490, stands out, showcasing mythological and allegorical figures.
Adding to its historical intrigue, archaeologists announced in July 2023 the discovery of the remains of the Theatre of Nero beneath the courtyard and gardens, further solidifying the palace’s place as a site of cultural and archaeological importance.
4) Torre del Brandale (Brandale Tower)
The Brandale Tower, standing 50 meters high, offers a unique blend of history and breathtaking views. As you ascend, you’ll pass through rooms filled with paintings, sculptures, and plaques, each telling the story of the tower’s past, from the Middle Ages to the 1800s. This historical journey provides insight into Savona’s evolution, making the climb both an educational and immersive experience.
One of the most fascinating parts of the ascent is passing behind the giant clock face, which has marked time for the city for centuries. As you reach the top of the tower, you’ll come face to face with "La Campanassa", a 1.5-ton bell that chimes every hour and half-hour, resonating across the entire city. This monumental bell has long been a symbol of Savona, serving as a reminder of the tower’s historical significance.
The panoramic views from the bell tower are truly unforgettable. From here, you can admire Savona’s port, the cityscape, and the Ligurian coastline, stretching as far as Genoa and Portofino.
One of the most fascinating parts of the ascent is passing behind the giant clock face, which has marked time for the city for centuries. As you reach the top of the tower, you’ll come face to face with "La Campanassa", a 1.5-ton bell that chimes every hour and half-hour, resonating across the entire city. This monumental bell has long been a symbol of Savona, serving as a reminder of the tower’s historical significance.
The panoramic views from the bell tower are truly unforgettable. From here, you can admire Savona’s port, the cityscape, and the Ligurian coastline, stretching as far as Genoa and Portofino.
5) Duomo di Savona (Savona Cathedral) (must see)
The Cathedral of the Assumption (Savona Cathedral) stands as the religious and historical heart of Savona. Located in the city’s historic center, it forms part of the Duomo monumental complex, which also includes the Cappella Sistina (Sistine Chapel), the Museo del Tesoro (Treasure Museum), and the apartment of Pope Pius VII. Built on the site of a 13th-century Franciscan complex, the cathedral was later transformed into a magnificent Baroque structure, showcasing an array of artistic and religious treasures.
Among its most notable works are a 15th-century baptistry, an unusual two-sided marble crucifix attributed to Giovanni Angelo Molinari, and an expressive wooden sculpture of Christ crowned with thorns, a masterpiece by Anton Maria Maragliano, originally housed in the Church of Santa Lucia.
The cathedral's interior is a striking blend of grandeur and historical continuity. The vaults and pillars, adorned between 1848 and 1851, feature the artistry of Michele Canzio, Giuseppe Bozzano, and Francesco Coghetti. Meanwhile, the side chapels preserve their 17th- and 18th-century decorations, adding to the cathedral’s layered aesthetic. A highlight of the presbytery is the impressive wooden choir stalls, crafted during the Renaissance under the direction of Giuliano Della Rovere, the future Pope Julius II.
Unlike traditional Counter-Reformation church designs, which often emphasized symmetry and strict formality, this cathedral adopts a layout with a central nave and two aisles, creating a sense of openness while maintaining its imposing and solemn atmosphere.
Among its most notable works are a 15th-century baptistry, an unusual two-sided marble crucifix attributed to Giovanni Angelo Molinari, and an expressive wooden sculpture of Christ crowned with thorns, a masterpiece by Anton Maria Maragliano, originally housed in the Church of Santa Lucia.
The cathedral's interior is a striking blend of grandeur and historical continuity. The vaults and pillars, adorned between 1848 and 1851, feature the artistry of Michele Canzio, Giuseppe Bozzano, and Francesco Coghetti. Meanwhile, the side chapels preserve their 17th- and 18th-century decorations, adding to the cathedral’s layered aesthetic. A highlight of the presbytery is the impressive wooden choir stalls, crafted during the Renaissance under the direction of Giuliano Della Rovere, the future Pope Julius II.
Unlike traditional Counter-Reformation church designs, which often emphasized symmetry and strict formality, this cathedral adopts a layout with a central nave and two aisles, creating a sense of openness while maintaining its imposing and solemn atmosphere.
6) Cappella Sistina (Sistine Chapel) (must see)
The Sistine Chapel of Savona, dating back to the 1480s, is a remarkable yet lesser-known counterpart to the famous chapel in Rome. Commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV, this funerary chapel was built within a Franciscan convent to honor his deceased parents, Leonardo Della Rovere and Luchina Monteleone. The original design was a rectangular hall with a square-based apse, decorated with a painted dome depicting a starry sky, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and celestial symbolism.
Much of the early artistic work was carried out by Giovanni Mazone, an Alexandrian painter who adorned the chapel with an apsidal pictorial cycle and an altar polyptych, though the latter was later moved to the Petit Palais in Avignon. In the 19th century, a triptych by Santino Tagliafichi replaced the original artwork.
The chapel also housed a marble mausoleum, originally placed on the left side of the apse. This intricate structure, sculpted by Giovanni and Michele d’Aria, features Saints Francis and Anthony accompanying Sixtus IV’s parents in a solemn bas-relief composition, crowned by the papal coat of arms. Additionally, Sixtus IV’s nephew, Giuliano della Rovere—who later became Pope Julius II—commissioned Mazone to decorate the walls with frescoes of the Annunciation, the Nativity, and the Journey of the Three Kings, which were later relocated during restorations.
In the 1860s, Francesco Maria, the last Della Rovere descendant, oversaw a major restoration that gave the chapel its current Rococo aesthetic. The structure was transformed into a modern aristocratic chapel, with a pseudo-elliptical vault, large bright windows, and lavish floral stucco decorations crafted by Lombard artisans. The centerpiece of the ceiling is "The Mystery of Redemption", a fresco by Paolo Gerolamo Brusco, enhancing the grandeur of the space.
Much of the early artistic work was carried out by Giovanni Mazone, an Alexandrian painter who adorned the chapel with an apsidal pictorial cycle and an altar polyptych, though the latter was later moved to the Petit Palais in Avignon. In the 19th century, a triptych by Santino Tagliafichi replaced the original artwork.
The chapel also housed a marble mausoleum, originally placed on the left side of the apse. This intricate structure, sculpted by Giovanni and Michele d’Aria, features Saints Francis and Anthony accompanying Sixtus IV’s parents in a solemn bas-relief composition, crowned by the papal coat of arms. Additionally, Sixtus IV’s nephew, Giuliano della Rovere—who later became Pope Julius II—commissioned Mazone to decorate the walls with frescoes of the Annunciation, the Nativity, and the Journey of the Three Kings, which were later relocated during restorations.
In the 1860s, Francesco Maria, the last Della Rovere descendant, oversaw a major restoration that gave the chapel its current Rococo aesthetic. The structure was transformed into a modern aristocratic chapel, with a pseudo-elliptical vault, large bright windows, and lavish floral stucco decorations crafted by Lombard artisans. The centerpiece of the ceiling is "The Mystery of Redemption", a fresco by Paolo Gerolamo Brusco, enhancing the grandeur of the space.
7) Oratory of Our Lady of Castello
The Oratory of Our Lady of Castello is a historic religious site with deep roots in the city’s ecclesiastical heritage. Originally constructed behind the Cathedral of Nostra Signora di Castello, from which it takes its name, the oratory underwent significant reconstruction in 1755 following a devastating fire that destroyed much of the 16th-century structure. Over time, it became integrated into civil buildings during urban development between 1863 and 1895, giving it the appearance it has today.
The oratory follows a single-nave design, featuring a barrel vault and a semicircular presbytery, which is adorned with intricate Rococo stucco work by Giuseppe Petondi of Castel San Pietro, Switzerland.
A notable highlight of the oratory is its grand polyptych, created in 1490 by Vincenzo Foppa and Ludovico Brea, which survived the destruction of the ancient Priamar Cathedral and now stands prominently above the main altar. The altar itself, dating back to around 1920, features a silver embossed tabernacle door, adding to the richness of the space. On either side of the presbytery, two ornate loggias were decorated by Agostino Ratti, further enhancing the oratory’s artistic appeal.
One of the oratory’s most significant features is its collection of three processional chests, which are carried during Savona’s traditional Good Friday procession. These include "La Pietà", sculpted by Stefano Murialdo in 1833, "The Deposition from the Cross", a 1793 work by Filippo Martinengo, and "The Dead Christ on the Cross", an evocative mid-16th-century piece from the Roman School, donated in 1728 by the Della Rovere family.
The oratory follows a single-nave design, featuring a barrel vault and a semicircular presbytery, which is adorned with intricate Rococo stucco work by Giuseppe Petondi of Castel San Pietro, Switzerland.
A notable highlight of the oratory is its grand polyptych, created in 1490 by Vincenzo Foppa and Ludovico Brea, which survived the destruction of the ancient Priamar Cathedral and now stands prominently above the main altar. The altar itself, dating back to around 1920, features a silver embossed tabernacle door, adding to the richness of the space. On either side of the presbytery, two ornate loggias were decorated by Agostino Ratti, further enhancing the oratory’s artistic appeal.
One of the oratory’s most significant features is its collection of three processional chests, which are carried during Savona’s traditional Good Friday procession. These include "La Pietà", sculpted by Stefano Murialdo in 1833, "The Deposition from the Cross", a 1793 work by Filippo Martinengo, and "The Dead Christ on the Cross", an evocative mid-16th-century piece from the Roman School, donated in 1728 by the Della Rovere family.
8) Monumento ai Caduti (War Memorial)
The War Memorial in Piazza Goffredo Mameli is one of Savona’s most solemn and symbolic monuments, honoring those who fell in all wars. Designed by sculptor Luigi Venzano and inaugurated on September 18, 1927, the memorial consists of a marble base and bronze figures, created from melted cannons of the Great War. Each day at 6:00 PM, the city observes a moving tribute as 21 tolls of the bell ring out—one for each letter of the Italian alphabet—while traffic and pedestrians pause in silent remembrance.
The monument is set upon a Balma syenite pedestal and is rich in symbolism, depicting key moments of World War I. On one side, a seated veteran and a soldier departing for the front represent the beginning of the war on May 24, 1915. On the other, a mourning elderly woman and a young mother with her child embody the war’s end on November 4, 1918, symbolizing both victory and grief.
At the center of the monument, four large bronze figures support a bell, modeled after Savona’s historic “Campanassa”.
The monument is set upon a Balma syenite pedestal and is rich in symbolism, depicting key moments of World War I. On one side, a seated veteran and a soldier departing for the front represent the beginning of the war on May 24, 1915. On the other, a mourning elderly woman and a young mother with her child embody the war’s end on November 4, 1918, symbolizing both victory and grief.
At the center of the monument, four large bronze figures support a bell, modeled after Savona’s historic “Campanassa”.
9) Corso Italia (Italy Avenue) (must see)
Corso Italia is Savona’s premier shopping destination, offering a vibrant mix of boutiques, specialty stores, and local markets. As a pedestrian-only street, it provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll while exploring the best the city has to offer.
Whether you're looking for fashion, accessories, artisan goods, or gourmet treats, Corso Italia has a wide range of shops catering to different tastes and budgets. From high-end brands to charming local boutiques, this lively avenue is a must-visit for any shopping enthusiast.
Beyond retail therapy, Corso Italia is also a hub of social life, where both locals and visitors enjoy the pleasure of a traditional passeggiata—the Italian custom of strolling through the city in the early evening. Lined with elegant storefronts and inviting window displays, the street is always bustling with energy, especially during the holiday season and special sales events.
After exploring the many shops, visitors can take a break at one of Corso Italia’s cafés or trattorias, which serve authentic Ligurian cuisine. As one of Savona’s most charming streets, Corso Italia is more than just a retail hub—it’s a place to soak in the city’s lively atmosphere, discover local craftsmanship, and indulge in the pleasures of Italian shopping and dining.
Whether you're looking for fashion, accessories, artisan goods, or gourmet treats, Corso Italia has a wide range of shops catering to different tastes and budgets. From high-end brands to charming local boutiques, this lively avenue is a must-visit for any shopping enthusiast.
Beyond retail therapy, Corso Italia is also a hub of social life, where both locals and visitors enjoy the pleasure of a traditional passeggiata—the Italian custom of strolling through the city in the early evening. Lined with elegant storefronts and inviting window displays, the street is always bustling with energy, especially during the holiday season and special sales events.
After exploring the many shops, visitors can take a break at one of Corso Italia’s cafés or trattorias, which serve authentic Ligurian cuisine. As one of Savona’s most charming streets, Corso Italia is more than just a retail hub—it’s a place to soak in the city’s lively atmosphere, discover local craftsmanship, and indulge in the pleasures of Italian shopping and dining.
10) Palazzo Delle Piane (Palace of Delle Piane)
The Palace of Delle Piane, also known as the "Palace of the Balls" (Palazzo delle Palle), is one of Savona’s most distinctive Art Nouveau (Liberty) buildings. Constructed in 1910, as indicated on its entrance, the palace was commissioned by the Delle Piane family and designed by engineer Alessandro Martinengo. Its nickname derives from the six large copper spheres adorning the roof, a unique feature that sets it apart in the city's architectural landscape.
What makes the Palace of Delle Piane truly striking is its elaborate and dynamic design, which blends elements of Art Nouveau and Baroque influences. The façade is adorned with sculptural female figures that run along the building’s base, giving it a fluid and almost theatrical appearance. The plastic decorations are "fantastically bizarre," lending the structure an extravagant aesthetic that defies conventional styles.
Adding to its elegance are the intricately designed balconies, featuring ornate railings that emphasize the flowing, decorative style of Liberty architecture. This combination of color, texture, and sculptural form makes the palace a true masterpiece of its era and one of Savona’s most visually captivating landmarks.
What makes the Palace of Delle Piane truly striking is its elaborate and dynamic design, which blends elements of Art Nouveau and Baroque influences. The façade is adorned with sculptural female figures that run along the building’s base, giving it a fluid and almost theatrical appearance. The plastic decorations are "fantastically bizarre," lending the structure an extravagant aesthetic that defies conventional styles.
Adding to its elegance are the intricately designed balconies, featuring ornate railings that emphasize the flowing, decorative style of Liberty architecture. This combination of color, texture, and sculptural form makes the palace a true masterpiece of its era and one of Savona’s most visually captivating landmarks.
11) Fortezza del Priamar (Priamar Fortress) (must see)
The Priamar Fortress (Fortezza del Priamàr) is one of Savona’s most imposing landmarks, standing as a symbol of power and resilience. Built between 1542 and 1544 by the Republic of Genoa, the fortress was designed to control and defend the city while asserting Genoa’s dominance.
It was constructed on the site of Savona’s medieval center, leading to the destruction of several significant structures, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria di Castello, the bishop’s palace, a Dominican convent, multiple oratories, and three public hospitals. Today, the fortress offers stunning 360-degree views of the sea, mountains, and city, making it a key attraction for visitors.
Over the centuries, Priamar Fortress has undergone numerous modifications and served various purposes, including use as a prison. One of its most famous inmates was Giuseppe Mazzini, a pivotal figure in the Italian unification movement, who was imprisoned here between November 1830 and January 1831. His cell remains open to visitors, offering insight into this significant chapter of history. The fortress also houses several small museums, including the Civico Museo Storico Archeologico, which showcases artifacts that trace Savona’s past.
Despite periods of neglect, the fortress remains a vibrant cultural site, with expansive terraces overlooking the sea, an overgrown playground, and even a small café where visitors can take in the historic surroundings. Walking through its massive bastions, visitors can experience centuries of military and civic history, while enjoying one of the best panoramic views in Savona.
It was constructed on the site of Savona’s medieval center, leading to the destruction of several significant structures, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria di Castello, the bishop’s palace, a Dominican convent, multiple oratories, and three public hospitals. Today, the fortress offers stunning 360-degree views of the sea, mountains, and city, making it a key attraction for visitors.
Over the centuries, Priamar Fortress has undergone numerous modifications and served various purposes, including use as a prison. One of its most famous inmates was Giuseppe Mazzini, a pivotal figure in the Italian unification movement, who was imprisoned here between November 1830 and January 1831. His cell remains open to visitors, offering insight into this significant chapter of history. The fortress also houses several small museums, including the Civico Museo Storico Archeologico, which showcases artifacts that trace Savona’s past.
Despite periods of neglect, the fortress remains a vibrant cultural site, with expansive terraces overlooking the sea, an overgrown playground, and even a small café where visitors can take in the historic surroundings. Walking through its massive bastions, visitors can experience centuries of military and civic history, while enjoying one of the best panoramic views in Savona.
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