Piazza San Matteo, Historic pedestrian square in the old quarter, Genoa, Italy.
This small medieval square features black and white marble-striped buildings surrounding the ancient Church of San Matteo, creating a harmonious architectural ensemble in Genoa's historic center.
The square was established around 1278 and served as the private domain of the powerful Doria family, who built their aristocratic residences and private chapel here during the height of Genoa's maritime republic.
The Church of San Matteo houses tombs of famous Doria admirals including Andrea Doria, while the square hosts summer evening concerts and traditional religious processions throughout the year.
Located in the pedestrian zone of Genoa's historic center, the square is easily accessible on foot from Via del Campo and provides a quiet respite from the busy commercial streets nearby.
The Doria family still owns the church and maintains the right to appoint its abbot, making this one of the few remaining privately-owned religious sites in Italy's historic centers.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
