Palazzo San Giorgio, Gothic palace near the port in Genoa, Italy.
Palazzo San Giorgio is a palace located near Genoa's waterfront with two distinct building sections: an older part built from red brick and stone, and a later section featuring decorated plaster on its surfaces. The structure combines different architectural styles from separate periods of construction.
The palace was built between 1257 and 1260 to serve as Genoa's municipal headquarters. Over time, its purpose shifted toward managing port customs and trade operations.
The sea-facing side displays frescoes showing important figures from Genoa's maritime history, including explorers and admirals who shaped the city's seafaring traditions.
The building currently houses the port authority and can be visited by arranging a tour in advance. You can reach out through the local contact office to book a guided visit that fits your schedule.
Inside one room of the palace, Marco Polo is believed to have dictated his travel stories while held prisoner in Genoa. This connection to the journeys of one of history's most celebrated explorers remains part of the building's legacy.
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