Palazzo Balbi Giacomo e Pantaleo, Renaissance palace in Via Balbi, Genoa, Italy
Description
Palazzo Balbi Giacomo e Pantaleo is a Renaissance building in Genoa featuring two identical noble floors arranged above a spacious courtyard. The southern section contains a terrace garden and a decorated nymphaeum.
History
The palazzo was built in 1618 by architect Bartolomeo Bianco for the Balbi brothers and remained in family ownership until 1972. The University of Genoa then acquired it and converted the spaces to academic use.
Culture
The interior holds Baroque frescoes by Valerio Castello depicting mythological scenes such as the abduction of Proserpine. Local artists like Domenico Piola also contributed works that remain visible throughout the rooms.
Practical
The building now serves as part of the University of Genoa, so access to its spaces depends on academic schedules and class times. Visitors should check ahead and plan their visits during official university hours.
Did you know?
During 1645 renovations the structure was dramatically reshaped by removing central columns and walls, transforming it into a horseshoe layout that frames an inner garden. This bold architectural change was unusual for its time and still defines how the courtyard functions today.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Genoa).
Royal Palace of Genoa
100 m
Nazario Sauro
269 m
Walls of Genoa
178 m
Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato
92 m
Via del Campo 29 Rosso
248 m
Colonna infame
235 m
San Filippo Neri
230 m
Nostra Signora del Carmine e Sant'Agnese
149 m
Durazzo-Pallavicini Palace
29 m
Palazzo dell'Università
64 m
Palazzo Belimbau
125 m
Santi Vittore e Carlo
147 m
Palazzo Nicolò Lomellini
127 m
Palazzo Stefano Lomellini
244 m
University of Genoa Botanic Garden
211 m
Santi Gerolamo e Francesco Saverio
54 m
San Sisto
133 m
Santa Fede
148 m
Palazzo Balbi Piovera Francesco
24 m
Palazzo Giacomo Lomellini
217 m
Palazzo Balbi Gio. Francesco
62 m
Palazzo Lomellino Bartolomeo
252 m
Palazzo Durazzo-Cattaneo Adorno
204 m
Palazzo Lomellini-Serra
184 m
Palazzo Filippo Lomellini
184 m
Palazzo Bartolomeo Invrea
252 m
Palazzo Cristoforo Spinola
171 m
Palazzo Antonio Doria Invrea
250 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes