Alla Scoperta dei segreti dell’Acquedotto Storico di Genova

Key Points

• Duration: 90-minute guided walk through Genoa’s historic aqueduct
• Location: Starts at front of IAT tourist office in Genoa
• Highlights: Medieval aqueduct, ancient water system, architecture, and nature
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible and suitable for all
• Language: Guided in Italian, with the tour led by licensed local guides
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

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An Engaging 1.5-Hour Walk Through Genoa’s Historic Water System

This tour offers a fascinating journey into Genoa’s past, focusing on its medieval aqueduct and water infrastructure that shaped the city’s development. With a lasting 90 minutes, it provides an insightful look at how water was transported and stored, connecting the city’s present with its historical roots.

The tour begins at the front of the IAT tourist office in Calata Falcone e Borsellino, making it easy to find. Led by licensed Italian-speaking guides, it is accessible for people in wheelchairs and suited for those interested in history, architecture, and landscape. Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before.

Exploring Genoa’s Medieval Aqueduct and Water Supply System

The core of this experience is exploring the ancient aqueduct, constructed during the medieval period. You will walk along sections of this historic structure, discovering how it originally supplied water to the city’s fountains and neighborhoods. The aqueduct’s arches and stones tell stories of ingenuity, with parts of the system extending up to the inland Valbisagno in later centuries.

This walk reveals how Genoa’s water infrastructure expanded between the 1600s and 1800s, incorporating sources from mountains and inland streams. The route includes notable stops such as Via del Molo, Palazzo San Giorgio, Porta dei Vacca, Piazza Santa Sabina, and Salita dell’Acquedotto, providing a broad view of the city’s historic districts and natural landscapes.

The Route from the Old Port to the City Walls

The tour starts near the historic Port of Genoa, passing Palazzo San Giorgio and Sottoripa. From there, it moves through key city gates like Porta dei Vacca and Porta Soprana, offering a visual journey through Genoa’s medieval defenses and urban development.

The route continues uphill along Salita dell’Acquedotto and Salita San Gerolamo, where the architecture and nature intermingle. The pacing allows for plenty of opportunities to observe the stonework of the aqueduct and the surrounding greenery, making it a delightful mix of history and scenery.

Discovering the Water System’s Expansion from Seicento to Nineteenth Century

Between the 1600s and 1800s, Genoa’s water system saw significant growth, eventually reaching inland sources from the Val Bisagno. The tour details this expansion, illustrating how the city’s public water supply became more robust and widespread over centuries.

A key highlight is walking along parts of the original aqueduct, where every arch reflects engineering skill from centuries past. The route passes through the Corsa Magenta, providing views of historic and modern architecture intertwined with natural landscapes.

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The Natural Surroundings and Architectural Features

While the main focus is on the aqueduct and water system, the tour also emphasizes the beautiful natural environment surrounding Genoa. As you walk, expect to see green hills, stone structures, and urban settings that highlight the city’s harmonious blend of architecture and nature.

The guide points out details of the aqueduct’s construction, explaining how stones and arches served both functional and aesthetic purposes. The route takes you through green spaces and along city walls, offering panoramic views and a sense of historical scale.

Detailed Stops: From Piazza Santa Sabina to Santa Maria delle Grazie

The tour’s stops include Piazza Santa Sabina, a charming square that offers a glimpse into Genoa’s medieval past. Following this, you’ll walk through Salita dell’Acquedotto and Salita San Gerolamo, where the stonework of the aqueduct becomes even more evident.

The route concludes near Santa Maria delle Grazie al Molo, where the cistern and remaining structures of the water system can be viewed. This final point provides a tangible link to Genoa’s historic water management and allows for reflection on the city’s engineering heritage.

Practicalities of the Guided Tour

The tour departs promptly at scheduled times, so arriving 10 minutes early at the meeting point is advisable. The meeting point is right in front of the IAT tourist office at Calata Falcone e Borsellino — easy to locate using the provided coordinates.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, as walking over uneven surfaces and uphill sections are part of the experience. The tour is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs, making it inclusive for a broad range of visitors.

Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility Options

Reservations can be made without immediate payment, thanks to the reserve now & pay later feature. This flexibility makes it easier to plan a day in Genoa without immediate commitments. If plans change, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a risk-free booking process.

The Guides and Overall Experience

All tours are led by licensed Italian guides, knowledgeable about the history, architecture, and natural features of the aqueduct. Their expertise ensures that each stop is informative, engaging, and well-paced.

The provider, Italia in Tour, maintains a 4.4-star rating, reflecting consistent quality and positive experiences. The small group size and local guides foster an authentic and personable atmosphere throughout the walk.

Final Considerations for Potential Participants

This guided walk offers a compact yet thorough overview of Genoa’s medieval water infrastructure. It is ideal for those interested in historical engineering, urban development, or simply seeking a scenic, informative stroll through the city.

While the tour is short in duration, it provides deep insights into how water shaped Genoa’s growth. It is particularly suited for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and nature lovers looking for an active yet manageable exploration.

Exploring Similar Experiences in Genoa

For those interested in more in-depth stories, hidden places, or local traditions, additional tours like “Genova Medievale” or “Secret Genoa Noir” are available. These alternatives explore mysteries, legends, and inaccessibility, complementing the understanding gained from this aqueduct-focused walk.

Alla Scoperta dei segreti dell’Acquedotto Storico di Genova: A Clear Window into the City’s Past

This tour provides a valuable glimpse into Genoa’s engineering ingenuity and urban evolution. It combines history, architecture, and natural scenery into an engaging 90-minute experience led by expert local guides.

Participants will appreciate how the medieval aqueduct and subsequent expansions supported the city’s growth, all while enjoying views of Genoa’s historic districts and surrounding landscapes. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a timeless story and a direct connection to Genoa’s water heritage.

While the tour is short, its rich content and scenic route make it a memorable part of any Genoa visit. The accessible and flexible booking options further enhance its appeal for a wide range of visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby