Tomb Of The Patrone Family

Tomb of the Patrone Family, Genoa, Italy: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Tomb of the Patrone Family, located within Genoa’s Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno, stands as a remarkable example of 19th-century funerary art and a testament to Genoese social history. This guide provides an in-depth overview of the tomb’s historical context, artistic significance, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips—everything you need to plan a meaningful visit to one of Italy’s most extraordinary historical sites.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Staglieno Cemetery: An Open-Air Museum

Established in 1851 in response to Napoleon’s burial edicts, the Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno is not only one of Europe’s largest cemeteries but also an open-air museum, renowned for its neoclassical architecture and lifelike sculptures. Designed by Giovanni Battista Resasco, the cemetery reflects Genoa’s 19th-century social transformation, with grand family monuments like the Patrone tomb showcasing the city’s tradition of commemorating influential families through art (Wandering Jana; Amusing Planet).

The Patrone Family Tomb

While the Patrone family may not possess international fame, their tomb at Staglieno signals significant local standing and aspiration. The tomb is an artistic statement, featuring Carrara marble sculpture with allegorical symbolism—angels, virtues, and classical motifs—set amid the cemetery’s neoclassical arcades. Its placement within the hillside terraces reflects a harmonious integration of architecture, landscape, and art (Discover Genoa).

Artistic Significance

Style and Symbolism

The Patrone tomb exemplifies the neoclassical and realist influences that define Staglieno. Sculptures display lifelike expressions and detailed drapery, while classical columns, urns, and laurel wreaths imbue the monument with symbolic meaning—virtue, unity, and remembrance (Amusing Planet; Wandering Jana).

Craftsmanship

Crafted mainly from Carrara marble, the tomb demonstrates exceptional technical skill. The blending of artistic trends and personal taste is evident in both the overall design and the intricate sculptural details (Discover Genoa).

Visiting the Tomb of the Patrone Family: Practical Information

Location

Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno
Piazzale Giovanni Battista Resasco, 3
16137 Genova GE, Italy

The Patrone Tomb is located in the Eastern Lower Arcade (Porticato Inferiore a Levante), below the Montanari Tomb. Maps are available at the entrance and in the official visitor guide (PDF).

Visiting Hours

Usual Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (may extend to 6:00 PM in peak season)
Note: Hours may vary for holidays or special events; always check the official Genoa tourism website for updates.

Tickets and Admission

Entry: Free for all visitors.
Guided Tours: Available for a fee (typically €10–€20 per person), bookable online or at the visitor center. Advance booking is recommended during busy periods.

Getting There and Accessibility

Public Transport

Bus: AMT bus lines 14 (from Brignole station) and 34 (from Piazza Principe) stop at Piazzale Resasco, near the cemetery entrance.
Taxi: Costs from the city center average €10–€15.

By Car

Limited parking is available near the main entrance. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Accessibility

The cemetery is built on a hillside; main avenues and arcades are mostly accessible, but some areas have steps and uneven terrain.
Visitors with limited mobility should contact the visitor center in advance for assistance and accessible route planning.

Facilities

Restrooms: Located near the main entrance.
Maps: Available at the entrance and online.
Refreshments: No cafés inside; bring water and snacks.
Seating: Benches are placed throughout the grounds.

Visitor Experience

Guided and Self-Guided Tours

Official Guided Tours: Led by local historians or art experts in Italian and English, focusing on Staglieno’s major monuments, including the Patrone Family Tomb.
Self-Guided Audio Tours: Available for rent at the entrance.
Educational Opportunities: Workshops, school programs, and photography classes are available seasonally (Lonely Planet).

Photography and Etiquette

Photography is permitted for personal use, especially in the arcades where lighting highlights the marble sculptures.
Please dress modestly, speak quietly, and respect the cemetery as an active place of remembrance.

Nearby Attractions

Within Staglieno: Other notable tombs (e.g., Giuseppe Mazzini), gardens, and neoclassical arcades.
Close to Cemetery: Genoa’s historic center, Via Garibaldi (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Piazza De Ferrari, Porta Soprana, Cattedrale di San Lorenzo.
Day Trips: Boccadasse, Portofino, Cinque Terre, and Nervi are accessible for coastal escapes (My Italian Diaries).

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain.
Weather: Bring sun protection/hats in summer; arcades offer shelter during rain, but paths can be slippery.
Duration: Plan 1–2 hours to explore the tomb and main arcades.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Tomb of the Patrone Family?
A: The cemetery is open daily, typically 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (may extend to 6:00 PM in high season).

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, entry is free. Guided tours require a separate ticket.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Main arcades are accessible but expect some uneven surfaces and inclines.

Q: Are tours offered in English?
A: Yes, guided tours are available in Italian and English, with occasional offerings in other languages.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, personal use is permitted. Please be respectful.

Summary and Recommendations

The Tomb of the Patrone Family at Staglieno Cemetery offers a unique opportunity to experience Genoa’s rich artistic and social history. With free entry, accessible public transport, and options for guided and self-guided tours, it is an essential destination for art lovers, historians, and cultural travelers. Combine your visit with other Genoese landmarks for a comprehensive exploration of the city’s heritage.

For the best experience, check visiting hours ahead of time, wear comfortable shoes, and consider booking a guided tour to deepen your understanding of the site’s significance.