Piazza Matteotti, Genoa

Square in Genoa

Piazza Matteotti In Genoa
Piazza Matteotti in Genoa
CC BY-SA 2.5 / Alessio Sbarbaro

Piazza Matteotti is one of Genoa's central public spaces, unfolding just beyond the historic heart and framed by some of the city's most significant buildings. Its expansive, T-shaped layout sits at the foot of the Doge's Palace, whose imposing wings enclose its northern side. From here, Via San Lorenzo leads visitors towards the city's cathedral, while Via di Porta Soprana runs parallel to the Church of Gesù and points towards the ancient gate in the medieval walls. Despite its proximity to major streets, the square feels surprisingly open, with lively pedestrian areas that often host seasonal markets and local fairs, making it one of the best places to visit in Piazza Matteotti surroundings.

Piazza Matteotti is also one of the top sights in Genoa for anyone interested in tracing the evolution of the city. Just steps away from Piazza De Ferrari via Via Pietro Boetto, it links Genoa's aristocratic architecture, medieval lanes, and civic life in a single sweep of urban space. Its mixture of monuments, markets, and historic routes makes it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Genoa.

History and Significance of Piazza Matteotti

The area now occupied by Piazza Matteotti has been inhabited since Roman times. Excavations beginning in 1975 revealed a Roman domus from the 1st century BC, which underwent modifications during the 1st-3rd centuries AD and may have remained active until the 7th century. Archaeologists also uncovered an inscription dedicated to Fortuna Redux, suggesting the presence of a sanctuary or Roman monument in the vicinity.

The square as we know it began to take shape in 1527, when terrain between the southern side of the Doge's Palace and the Carrubeus Ferrariorum-the district of ironworkers-was levelled to create an open space known as “Piazza Nuova di Ferreria.” Arcades lined the square, hosting shops and stalls, and a fountain was installed before later being moved to the nearby church of San Domenico.

Its modern T-shaped design emerged in the 1840s after the demolition of the “curtain,” a building block that once enclosed the Doge's Palace. Over the 20th century, the square underwent several renamings: Piazza Umberto I, Piazza Ettore Muti during World War II, and finally Piazza Matteotti, dedicated to Giacomo Matteotti, a socialist statesman assassinated in 1924. Today the square remains an important civic space, reflecting layers of Genoa's political, architectural, and social history.

Things to See and Do in Piazza Matteotti

Piazza Matteotti is surrounded by some of Genoa's most notable buildings and streets, offering visitors a range of things to do:

• Admire the façade and side wings of the Doge's Palace, whose main entrance faces the square.
• Walk Via San Lorenzo towards the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.
• Follow Via di Porta Soprana towards the medieval city gate and Casa di Colombo.
• Explore the Church of Gesù, a masterpiece of Genoese Baroque architecture.
• Wander into the medieval alleys via Salita Pollaioli for an atmospheric detour.
• Enjoy markets, fairs, and events that periodically fill the pedestrian zones.

With its mix of monumental landmarks and lively public life, the square offers an engaging blend of past and present.

How to Get to Piazza Matteotti

Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is the main entry point into the city, with shuttle buses, taxis, and private transfers connecting to the centre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Genoa on Booking.com.

Genoa Piazza Principe and Genova Brignole railway stations both provide easy access to the historic core, and several bus routes and metro stops are located nearby. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

For visitors arriving by car, public garages around Piazza De Ferrari offer convenient parking before exploring the pedestrian streets on foot. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Piazza Matteotti

  • Suggested tips: Combine Piazza Matteotti with visits to the Doge's Palace and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.
  • Best time to visit: Late afternoon when the façades glow warmly in the sun.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free public square; nearby museums have individual fees.
  • Opening hours: Open 24/7 as a public space.
  • Official website: Refer to Visit Genoa for nearby attractions.
  • How long to spend: 30-45 minutes; longer when visiting surrounding monuments.
  • Accessibility: Broad and mostly level surfaces; accessible from surrounding streets.
  • Facilities: Cafés, shops, and restrooms in nearby buildings.
  • Photography tip: Capture the Doge's Palace wings framing the upper part of the square.
  • Guided tours: Included in many Old Town walking routes.
  • Nearby food options: Cafés on Via San Lorenzo; restaurants near Piazza De Ferrari.

Where to Stay close to Piazza Matteotti

Piazza Matteotti’s central location makes it convenient for exploring Genoa’s historic sites. Hotel Bristol Palace offers elegance close to Via Garibaldi and the cathedral. Nearby, Hotel Palazzo Grillo blends history with boutique comfort. For harbour views within walking distance, NH Collection Genova Marina is an excellent choice.

Is Piazza Matteotti Worth Visiting?

Yes. Piazza Matteotti is a fascinating crossroads of Genoa's Roman origins, medieval power, Renaissance architecture, and modern civic life. Its proximity to major landmarks and its vibrant pedestrian space make it an essential stop for any visitor exploring the historic centre.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

Piazza Giacomo Matteotti is a public square in Genova, Italy, located on Piazza Giacomo Matteotti; it offers an open urban space where visitors can pause while exploring the city center.

FAQs for Visiting Piazza Matteotti

Mostly yes, with only limited controlled vehicle access.
Yes, its main entrance opens directly onto Piazza Matteotti.
Remains were excavated nearby, though not visible above ground.
Yes, seasonal fairs and markets are held regularly.
Very close-Piazza De Ferrari and several bus lines are steps away.

Nearby Attractions to Piazza Matteotti

The Piazza Matteotti appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Genoa!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours

Price:

Free

Address: Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, Genoa, Metropolitan City of Genoa, Italy
Genoa: 0 km

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