La Chiesa di San Siro

The Basilica di San Siro is one of Genoa’s oldest and most fascinating churches, offering a blend of history, art, and spirituality. Originally built in the 4th century and later reconstructed in Baroque style, this basilica is a must-see for those who appreciate architectural beauty and historical depth. The interior is a masterpiece of Baroque design, with gilded details, dramatic frescoes, and intricate stucco work. The high altar, designed by Pierre Puget, is a true highlight, exuding grandeur and elegance. The church’s serene and contemplative atmosphere makes it a wonderful place to escape the hustle of the city while admiring its artistic treasures. Historically, the basilica holds significance as the original cathedral of Genoa before the title was transferred to the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. Its layers of history are evident in every corner, from its ancient origins to its ornate Baroque transformation.

A minor Basilica that is hardly mentioned on the grand scale of churches in Italy. I've seen many many churches in France, Spain and Portugal, but this would have to be one of the oldest and most beautifully decorated churches I have been on. In the back streets of the old town, it is definitely worth the visit. The interior is exquisite and it's decorated in a Baroque style. The interior is other worldly and you must look up and admire the sublime decoration on the ceiling. Truly incredible! Highly recommend

I'm just amazed by this place. A must visit in Genoa, a true wonder and masterpiece!

Remarkable church with wonderful frescoes and an array of other impressive works of art.

It is absolutely one of the best church in Italy. I am sure that is the first place that you have to see when you came to Genova. It is in old town, the most important point of interest. It is in baroque style and it was the oldest cathedral of Genoa. Now it is not more the Cathedral since some centuries because of it is outside of the wall of the town.

Very remarkable and rich church in Genovese baroque style with stunning carvings, sculptures and decorations. For sure with a a visit. An authentic jewel to be discovered.

LA CHIESA DI SAN SIRO The Church of San Siro was rebuilt in 1580 by the Theatine Fathers on the site of the old basilica dedicated to the Apostles. The original church dated to the sixth century and was rebuilt in the Romanesque style by the Benedictines who established themselves on the site around the Year One Thousand. Numerous noble Genoese families took part in the church's Baroque reconstruction: they raised altars and entrusted the decoration of the works to the most important artists of the day. The Pallavicino family was prominent among these nobles, in particular Agostino (1577-1649) and his son Ansaldo (1622-1660). They chose San Siro to be their Church and in fact obtained the right to place the Pallavicino coat of arms in the central nave, in this way standing out from - and above all the other aristocratic families. Agostino who was the Doge or Chief Magistrate of Genoa in 1637 wanted to be buried in San Siro. We owe the monumental decoration of the internal part of the facade to him. On his part, Ansaldo commissioned extensive decorative works comprising three frescoes for the central nave which were carried out by Giovanni Battista Carlone with scenes of the Life of Saint Peter. We also owe the ordering of the inside of the facade to him. The seventeenth-century Genoese aristocracy alternated the artistic commissions for the decoration of their palaces with those for places of worship. The Church of San Siro is a clear example of this. Not far from this building we find Palazzo Spinola di Pellicceria which in 1650 became the residence of Ansaldo Pallavicino. Today it houses the National Gallery and from among the works which have always remained where they were originally 'exhibited', it is also possible to admire the three small sketched preparatory works that Carlone proposed to Ansaldo Pallavicino before painting the frescoes on the vault of this Church.

Huge cathedral full of history.