Half way down Via San Luca, a lively, multi-ethnic and historical alley that formed an important part of the long medieval lane that crossed the whole city (vicolo lungo), is a small square that also serves as parvis to the small church of Saint Luke. This church is home to a wealth of works of art, as it once was the Spinola family parish church. The Spinolas were among the most prominent aristocratic families of Genoa, and their properties were concentrated in this area. The church was founded in 1188 and re-built in the Baroque style during the 17th century. The interior was decorated by Domenico Piola, a fine master of the fresco technique, and by Anton Maria Haffner, who was famous for his trompe-l’oeil paintings. This diminutive church is a veritable flourish of colours. Among the masterpieces housed within, visitors will have the chance to admire the Adoration of the Shepherds, a beautiful painting by Grechetto and the marble statue of the Virgin Mary by Filippo Parodi, on the altar.
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