Genoa is the capital of Liguria and one of Italy’s largest port cities, with around 566,000 people. Situated on the Ligurian coast between the Mediterranean Sea and the Apennine Mountains, the city has origins dating back to pre-Roman times and developed into one of Europe’s most powerful maritime republics during the Middle Ages, competing with Venice for control of Mediterranean trade. Genoa is also traditionally recognised as the birthplace of explorer Christopher Columbus. Its extensive medieval centre is known for its narrow, winding alleyways, locally called caruggi, while major landmarks include Genoa Cathedral, the historic Porto Antico, the Aquarium of Genoa and the Lanterna, a 77-metre lighthouse that has become a symbol of the city. The Renaissance and Baroque Palazzi dei Rolli, built for wealthy Genoese families, form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The former fishing village of Boccadasse, now incorporated into the city, is another distinctive coastal district. Genoa also has a notable place in Italian extreme metal history as the birthplace of progressive death metal band Sadist, formed in 1991 and known for albums including “Above the Light” (1993) and “Tribe” (1996).

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