Palazzo Gio Battista Spinola, Renaissance palace in Via Garibaldi, Genoa, Italy
Palazzo Gio Battista Spinola is a Renaissance palace on Via Garibaldi in Genoa with a symmetrical facade spanning three stories, decorated with carved stone details and prominent balconies. A finely crafted portal marks the central entrance, emphasizing the building's importance to the city.
Brothers Giambattista and Andrea Spinola commissioned the building in 1563 under architect Bernardino Cantone, with construction completed by 1567. The palace rose during a period when the Spinola family controlled significant wealth and influence in Genoa.
The palace's name honours Giambattista Spinola, who with his brother Andrea commissioned it in 1563; the Doria eagle crowns the lantern in the atrium, marking the family that bought the building in 1723. Inside, the Semini workshop frescoed the piano nobile vault with the embassy of Oberto Spinola to Frederick Barbarossa, celebrating the dynasty.
The exterior is always visible from the street, while interior sections are sometimes open to the public and may require joining a guided tour. Check ahead to learn which areas will be accessible during your visit.
A fresco in the main floor depicts the diplomatic mission of Obertus Spinola to Emperor Frederik I Barbarossa, painted by artist Andrea Semino. This artwork documents an important family milestone that the Spinolas chose to preserve within their own walls.
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