Tomb Of The Dufour Family

Tomb of the Dufour Family, Genoa: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno in Genoa stands as a powerful testament to the city’s layered history, artistic innovation, and civic pride. Among its many masterpieces, the Tomb of the Dufour Family represents a unique intersection of personal legacy, social symbolism, and artistic excellence. This comprehensive guide explores the historical evolution of Genoese monumental cemeteries, the artistic and cultural significance of the Dufour Family tomb, and provides practical visitor information, including hours, tickets, accessibility tips, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a traveler seeking authentic cultural experiences, a visit to the Dufour Family tomb at Staglieno offers profound insight into Genoa’s enduring heritage (Amusing Planet; Lonely Planet).

Historical Evolution of Monumental Cemeteries in Genoa

The creation of monumental cemeteries in Genoa was catalyzed by the Napoleonic Edict of Saint Cloud (1804), which mandated the relocation of burials outside city limits for public health reasons. This transformation was further accelerated by the cholera epidemic of 1835. Architect Carlo Barabino was initially tasked with designing Staglieno Cemetery, a project later completed by Giovanni Battista Resasco after Barabino’s death. Officially opened in 1851, Staglieno combined Neoclassical architectural order with Realist artistic movements, resulting in a harmonious blend of formal camposanto structures and naturalistic groves (Amusing Planet).

Artistic and Cultural Significance

Staglieno is not simply a cemetery; it is an open-air museum showcasing some of Italy’s most compelling funerary art. Its arcades and Pantheon-inspired central monument are adorned with marble statues and intricate epitaphs. The works of renowned sculptors like Leonardo Bistolfi and Eugenio Baroni lend the cemetery an aura of poignant realism, as statues—sometimes called “talking statues”—depict the departed in lifelike moments of reflection or repose (Lonely Planet).

Burial at Staglieno was historically a mark of social prestige. Genoa’s 19th-century bourgeoisie commissioned elaborate tombs, resulting in a competitive display of family legacy through art. Notable figures interred here include:

Giuseppe Mazzini: Patriot and leader of Italian unification (My Italian Diaries).
Fabrizio De André: Renowned singer-songwriter.
Constance Lloyd: Wife of Oscar Wilde (Lonely Planet).
Caterina Campodonico: Celebrated for her lifelike statue depicting her as a peanut vendor (My Italian Diaries).

Sections dedicated to British and Jewish communities, as well as war memorials, underscore Genoa’s diverse history (Amusing Planet).

The Tomb of the Dufour Family: Artistry and Symbolism

The Dufour Family tomb exemplifies the synthesis of Renaissance inspiration and 19th-century Realism. Its life-sized recumbent figure, sculpted with anatomical precision and clothed in a humble dressing gown, symbolizes the peaceful transition of death as “eternal sleep.” Eschewing overt religious symbolism, the monument focuses on the universality of human mortality and the personal journey of the deceased (symbolsproject.eu).

This approach mirrors the broader ethos of Staglieno, where emotional authenticity and personal narrative take precedence over grand religious statements. The Dufour tomb is not only a display of artistic skill but also an invitation for reflection on memory, legacy, and the continuity between the living and the dead.

Visiting Staglieno Cemetery: Practical Information

Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours: Generally from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 30 minutes before closing). Hours may vary on public holidays (Staglieno official site).
Admission: Free for all visitors. Guided tours, which offer deeper insights into the cemetery’s history and art, may require a ticket (Dolcevia).

Accessibility

Main pathways are wheelchair accessible, but some areas are uneven or include stairs. It is advisable to contact the cemetery administration in advance for specific accessibility needs (bimbeinviaggio.com).

Facilities

Restrooms and a small cafeteria are available near the main entrance.
Non-drinking water fountains are located throughout the grounds.

Getting There

Easily accessible by bus (lines 13, 14, and 34) from Genoa’s center, or by car with nearby parking (bimbeinviaggio.com).
Maps and information points at the entrance help locate the Dufour tomb and other notable monuments.

Visitor Etiquette

Dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor.
Photography is permitted but should be discreet and never include mourners without consent.

The Cemetery as an Open-Air Museum

Staglieno covers over 330,000 square meters and is recognized as one of Europe’s largest and most artistically significant cemeteries (wikipedia.org). The cemetery’s design, blending Neo-Classical and naturalistic elements, creates a tranquil setting for contemplation and discovery (discovergenoa.com).

Highlights and Nearby Attractions

In addition to the Dufour Family tomb, visitors should not miss:

The Oneto Angel by Giulio Monteverde.
Caterina Campodonico’s monument.
The central Pantheon.
Tombs of Giuseppe Mazzini and Constance Lloyd.

Combine your visit to Staglieno with nearby sites such as Genoa’s Palazzo Ducale, Via Garibaldi’s Renaissance palaces, and the Genoa Aquarium for a comprehensive cultural experience (Visit Genoa).

Guided Tours and Thematic Itineraries

The City of Genoa offers thematic guided tours—often in multiple languages—focusing on art, notable personalities, and symbolism. These tours can be booked in advance online or at the tourist office, and often include the Dufour Family tomb as a highlight (Staglieno official site; Dolcevia).

Visitor Tips

Wear comfortable shoes; some areas have cobblestones and steps.
Bring water, especially in summer, as refreshment options are limited inside.
Severe weather may lead to temporary closures (Visit Genoa).
Obtain a map at the entrance or download one online for easier navigation (Staglieno map).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours of Staglieno Cemetery?
A: Typically 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with adjustments for holidays (Staglieno official site).

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: General admission is free; guided tours may require tickets (Dolcevia).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in Italian and other languages by arrangement (Visit Genoa).

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Some main paths are accessible, but uneven terrain may present challenges (bimbeinviaggio.com).

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography is allowed; please be discreet and avoid photographing funerals or mourners.

Conclusion

The Tomb of the Dufour Family at Staglieno Cemetery is more than a monument; it is a profound reflection of Genoa’s cultural, artistic, and social history. Visiting Staglieno allows you to engage with evocative funerary art and contemplate the enduring narratives of identity, memory, and civic pride that define Genoese heritage. With free admission, extensive visiting hours, and accessible guided tours, Staglieno Cemetery stands as one of Italy’s most remarkable cultural destinations.

Plan your visit today: Check the official Staglieno website for the latest updates, download the Audiala app for audio guides, and explore more of Genoa’s historical treasures. Follow us on social media for news and inspiration.