Galata Museo del Mare, Genoa

Uncover the city’s special relationship to the sea at Galata Museo del Mare. The narrative starts on the ground floor with the story of native son Christopher Columbus. The evolution of the sailing ship is explained in detail through paintings, charts, and handmade scale models. Next, high-tech exhibits trace the history of the city’s reign as a medieval maritime power. The second floor houses a vast collection of old maps and globes, while the third floor narrates the story of the more recent Italian emigration to America. For a hands-on experience of this part of the country’s history, grab your own immigrant passport and ticket and become a third-class passenger aboard a White Star liner, in a simulation of a transatlantic journey to New York. The arrival in Ellis Island is recreated with stunning accuracy, complete with surly immigration officials. The topmost floor of the building offers sweeping views of the cityscape, so be sure to bring your camera. It couldn't be easier to arrange your visit to Galata Museo del Mare and many more Genoa attractions: make an itinerary online using Inspirock's Genoa trip itinerary builder.