Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Discover the Genova Proibita: Storia Osè, Amori Nascosti e Passioni, a captivating 1.5-hour walking tour through the hidden corners of Liguria’s bustling port city. With a rating of 4.4, this experience offers a unique look into Genova’s double life—where saints mingle with sinners, and the streets whisper tales of love, desire, and clandestine activities. Guided by knowledgeable local guides holding official certifications, this tour is perfect for those curious about the city’s lesser-known stories. The tour departs from Porta dei Vacca on Via del Campo and is suitable for anyone comfortable walking through narrow alleys and historic streets.
While the tour is accessible and lasts just 90 minutes, it demands comfortable footwear due to the nature of the walking route. It also addresses some delicate historical topics, especially related to prostitution, making it best suited for mature audiences interested in authentic, unfiltered local history. Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the pay later option allows for planning without immediate commitment.
Key Points
- Duration: 1.5 hours of guided walking through Genova’s historic alleys
- Highlights: Focuses on hidden stories of prostitution from medieval times to modern laws, plus connections to Genoese singer-songwriters
- Start point: Porta dei Vacca on Via del Campo
- Language: Conducted in Italian
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with comfortable footwear recommended
- Booking flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours beforehand, pay later
Exploring Genova’s Secret Past in the Old Town
The tour begins at the well-known Porta dei Vacca on Via del Campo, a historic gate that marks the starting point of a journey into Genova’s hidden history. From here, guides lead visitors through narrow, winding alleys that once housed private tales of desire and clandestine meetings. The route covers notable spots like Via Garibaldi, Piazza Fontane Marose, and Vico della Lepre, each revealing traces of the city’s dual identity.
Along the way, the tour narrates the history of prostitution in Genova, tracing back to Medieval times when activities were confined to specific zones. The narrative explains how regulations evolved over the centuries and culminated in the Legge Merlin, which revolutionized the approach to sex work. The guide shares fascinating stories about the zones and memories associated with these past practices, blending historical facts with local legends.
Planning more time in Genoa? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
From Medieval Beginnings to Modern Laws
The journey through Genova’s hidden sex industry begins in medieval times, where evidence shows that prostitution was confined to certain parts of the city. The tour details how authorities attempted to regulate these activities, with specific areas designated for such work, reflecting the societal attitudes of those times. The story then advances through the Renaissance, Baroque, and modern periods, illustrating how regulations shifted and public attitudes changed.
The climax of this historical overview is the revolution brought by the Legge Merlin, which marked a significant turning point in Italy’s approach to sex work. The guide explains how this law abolished the regulation of prostitution in public spaces, leading to a more discreet presence of these activities in modern times. This part of the tour emphasizes the human stories behind the laws, making the history deeply personal.
Key Locations: Via del Campo, Piazza Fontane Marose, and More
Among the most significant stops are Via del Campo, famous for its historic association with Genoese singer-songwriters, and Piazza Fontane Marose, a lively square that reflects the city’s vibrant past. Other notable spots include Vico della Lepre, Piazza Senarega, and Vico delle Carabaghe, where the architecture and street names whisper tales of moral complexities.
The tour also touches on places linked to the musical legends of Genoa, highlighting local artists who expressed the city’s passions through their songs. These connections add a cultural layer to the historical exploration, showing how art and music have carried the stories of desire and longing through generations.
The Role of Genoese Songwriters in Shaping Passions
A distinctive feature of this tour is its focus on the influence of Genoese singer-songwriters in giving voice to feelings of love, melancholy, and desire. The guide discusses how these musicians captured the passions and secrets of the city in their lyrics, turning alleys and hidden corners into symbols of intimate stories. This segment offers a poignant connection between history and contemporary culture.
Guests learn about famous songs and how they reflect the city’s dual soul, with melodies that echo the passions of past generations. The tour emphasizes how music has preserved the emotional landscape of Genova’s hidden life.
More Great Tours NearbyLogistics and Meeting Point Details
The tour begins precisely at Di fronte a Porta dei Vacca on Via del Campo, 16124. The meeting point’s coordinates are 44.4129524230957, 8.927165031433105. It’s advised to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. The group size is manageable, and the tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes, as the route involves walking through historic alleys with uneven surfaces. The tour’s pacing is steady, with enough time at each stop to absorb stories and explore the surroundings.
While you're exploring Genoa, here are other experiences we've looked into
Practical Information for Booking and Participation
This experience is offered by Italia in Tour, a provider rated 4.4. Booking can be done with flexibility, as the pay later option allows securing a spot without immediate payment, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start. The tour is conducted in Italian, and all participants are advised to respect the nature of the topics discussed.
While the duration is 90 minutes, the in-depth storytelling and walking make it a thoughtful exploration of Genova’s hidden side. The tour’s intimate size and expert guides deepen the experience, bringing the city’s secrets to life.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?
This tour is ideal for adults interested in local history, especially those curious about the city’s taboo stories. Music lovers will find the connection to Genoese songwriters compelling. Since the tour addresses delicate topics related to prostitution, it’s better suited for mature audiences comfortable with historical discussions of sexuality.
Visitors seeking a more human, less touristy perspective on Genova will find this experience enlightening and engaging. It offers a rare glimpse into the complex fabric that has shaped the city’s identity over centuries.
Ready to Book?
Genova Proibita: Storia Osè, Amori Nascosti e Passioni
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour addresses historical topics related to prostitution and sexuality, making it more appropriate for adult audiences.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, walking through various historic alleys and sites.
Where does the tour start?
It begins Di fronte a Porta dei Vacca on Via del Campo, with coordinates 44.4129524230957, 8.927165031433105.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but participants should wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in Italian.
Is there a guide available?
Yes, the tour is led by licensed local guides with official certifications.
Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, the experience focuses solely on walking and storytelling; no food or drinks are included.
How do I book the tour?
Reservations can be made online, with options to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and a curious mind ready to explore Genoa’s hidden passions and stories.
