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Loggia di Banchi: Genoa's Historic Trading Hub

Explore Genoa's Loggia di Banchi, a historic marketplace turned future City Museum, in the heart of the old city.

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The Loggia di Banchi, located in Piazza Banchi, Genoa, is a historical building that once served as a marketplace and commodity exchange. Constructed in the late 16th century, it stands as a testament to Genoa's rich maritime history and commercial power.

A brief summary to Loggia di Banchi

  • Piazza Banchi, Genoa, Metropolitan City of Genoa, 16123, IT
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning for a quieter atmosphere and better photo opportunities.
  • Check local listings for events or markets happening at Piazza Banchi.
  • Try local street food from nearby vendors for an authentic taste of Genoa.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Porto Antico (Old Port), walk towards Via Gramsci. Continue until you reach the intersection with Via San Lorenzo, then turn right. Follow Via San Lorenzo until you reach Piazza Banchi. The Loggia di Banchi will be easily visible in the square.

  • Public Transport

    Piazza Banchi is accessible via Genoa's public transportation network. Take the subway (MM) to San Giorgio station, which is a 2-minute walk from the piazza. Numerous bus lines also stop near Piazza Banchi. A single ticket valid for 100 minutes costs €1.80. Consider the 24-hour unlimited ride ticket (Genovapass) for €4.50 if you plan to use public transport extensively.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Genoa. A short trip (2-3 km) to Piazza Banchi will cost approximately €10-€12, with potential surcharges for luggage, nighttime or holiday rides, or phone reservations.

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Discover more about Loggia di Banchi

Piazza Banchi, in the heart of Genoa's historic center, is home to the Loggia di Banchi, a significant landmark reflecting the city's vibrant past. In the 12th century, this square was known as Piazza dei Banchi, named for the money-changers' stalls beneath the porticoes. The square's strategic location made it a vital point of access to the city from the sea, bustling with merchants, bankers, and notaries. The Loggia dei Mercanti was erected around 1590 to provide a covered space for bankers who previously operated outdoors. Andrea Ceresola, also known as il Vannone, designed the building. In 1855, it became the site of Italy's first Commodities and Stock Exchange. Inside, visitors can view a late 16th-century fresco by Pietro Sorri, depicting the Madonna Enthroned with Child and Saints Giovanni Battista and Giorgio, the city's patron saints. Over the years, the Loggia has undergone several transformations. It was given to the Chamber of Commerce in 1839 and restored by Giovanni Battista Resasco. The open sides facing Piazza Banchi and Via Banchi were enclosed with glass windows. Today, the Loggia is designated as the future home of the Museo della Città and is currently undergoing archaeological excavations and restoration. These excavations have revealed a multi-layered archaeological site, showcasing the daily life of Genoa between the 15th and 16th centuries.

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