Made up of a double structure, one ancient and one modern, and located between the Commenda di Prè and the docks, both of which have contributed to writing the history of Genoa and its harbour, the Galata Museum is the largest and most innovative maritime museum in the Mediterranean.
Besides more traditionally set up halls housing nautical equipment, maritime paintings, compasses and instruments commonly used on board of ships throughout history, visitors will have the chance to admire the reconstruction of a 17th century Genoese galley, explore the Arsenal premises, tour the Armoury, and leaf through 16th century atlases by way of multi-media software. Visitors will also be able to board a 19th century Ligurian brigantine, and the most daring will even have the chance to steer a vessel round Cape Horn in a ‘virtual’, yet very realistic storm.
The MeM – Memories and Migrations Hall on the third floor tells the stories of the Italians who emigrated to the Americas in the 19th and 20th centuries. Part of this hall is dedicated to comparing migratory conditions of the past with those encountered nowadays by immigrants from the southern parts of the world when they arrive in Italy. The exhibition includes one of the many large boats used by illegal immigrants who land on Lampedusa Island. Architect Renzo Piano’s Waterfront Project is there for those who enjoy observation and dreams, while the MiraGenova scenic terrace is an unusual observatory over the city. Submarine Nazario Sauro (see relevant app page) is moored right in front of the Museum.
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