The Rolli Days event returns to Genoa this weekend, May 28 and 29. It is the perfect chance to explore a side of this port city on the coast of Liguria, for centuries a powerful and wealthy maritime republic, normally unavailable to visitors. A group of palaces known as Palazzi dei Rolli, inscribed by UNESCO on its World Heritage List, will in fact be open to the public, who will be free to roam their elegant frescoed rooms, imposing staircases and splendid courtyards.
The Palazzi dei Rolli belonged to wealthy Genoese families who aspired to host important people on official visits to the Republic of Genoa. These palaces were listed on rolls, hence the name ‘rolli’, and classified according to their importance; the names were placed in three different boxes and selected randomly to host illustrious figures passing through town; the most prestigious palaces were reserved for cardinals, princes and viceroys.
This original way of hosting notable visitors began in 1576 and continued until the end of the Republic in 1797. During the 16th century, Genoa was at the height of its power, and rich merchants and traders began building lavish palaces, transforming an area of the old town into elegant and prestigious streets called Strade Nuove (now centering around Via Garibaldi), lined with aristocratic homes, decorated by some of the chief artists of the time.
Five of these palaces are now museums, including Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco and Palazzo Tursi, part of the network Musei di Strada Nuova (these are regularly open).
The Rolli Days take place three times a year. 2016 marks the 10th anniversary since inscription into the UNESCO list. Self-guided visits are free; guided visits are available for a fee and can be booked online here.
