Diocesan museum of Genoa, Religious art museum in San Lorenzo Cathedral complex, Genoa, Italy
The Diocesan Museum occupies a former residence next to the cathedral and displays religious artworks across two levels. Romanesque columns with detailed capitals structure the spaces and give the rooms their distinctive character.
The building was constructed between 1176 and 1184 on Roman foundations and long served as a residence for cathedral canons. In the 17th century it underwent significant modifications that changed its architectural appearance.
The collection shows religious artworks from the region across different periods, which you discover as you move through the rooms. These objects tell the story of how artistic traditions developed in Genoa and how people here expressed their faith.
The museum is easy to find since it sits next to the cathedral and is reachable from the old town center. It helps to visit in early morning or late afternoon hours when fewer people are around.
The lower level displays archaeological finds from different periods that offer insights into the earlier history of the site. Rarely seen objects in this section are often passed over by visitors who focus on the main galleries above.
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