Tomba Dellepiane Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Genoa, Italy
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction: The Significance of Tomba Dellepiane in Genoa
Nestled within the renowned Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno in Genoa, Italy, the Tomba Dellepiane stands as a testament to the city’s aristocratic heritage and the artistry of 19th-century funerary monuments. As one of Staglieno’s prominent family mausoleums, the tomb encapsulates Genoa’s maritime legacy and the ambitions of its elite families. Its marble craftsmanship, serene garden setting, and artistic symbolism make it a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, or the city’s cultural evolution.
The cemetery itself, inaugurated in 1851 and designed by Carlo Barabino, is an open-air museum spanning over 330,000 square meters. It features an extraordinary collection of neoclassical and realist sculptures, chapels, and mausoleums that collectively document Genoa’s social and cultural transformation. The Dellepiane family, whose origins trace back to northern Italy, commissioned this tomb as a mark of their prominence and lasting influence within Genoa. Alongside other celebrated monuments, the Tomba Dellepiane forms an integral part of the city’s historical narrative.
This guide brings together detailed visitor information, historical context, and practical tips to ensure a meaningful and seamless experience at Tomba Dellepiane and the broader Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno. For virtual resources and up-to-date details, consult official Genoa tourism websites and photographic archives (Discover the Tomba Dellepiane at Staglieno Cemetery; Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno guide; Visit Genoa).
Contents
- Historical Background of the Dellepiane Family
- Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
- Directions and Accessibility
- Guided Tours and Events
- Unique Features and Artistic Highlights
- Navigating the Cemetery
- Visitor Tips and Facilities
- Best Times to Visit
- Nearby Attractions
- Sustainability and Preservation
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Summary and Final Tips
- Sources
Historical Background of the Dellepiane Family
The Dellepiane family, originally from Lombardy and Piedmont, rose to prominence in Genoa during the 19th century. Their name, meaning “of the plain,” reflects ancestral ties to fertile regions. The family’s influence extended beyond Italy, with notable branches in Argentina and the United States. Their mausoleum at Staglieno not only signifies their social status but also serves as a lasting tribute to their role in Genoa’s development.
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
- Opening Hours: Staglieno Cemetery is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Hours may differ on public holidays; always confirm via the official Genoa tourism website.
- Admission: Entry to the cemetery and Tomba Dellepiane is free. Fees may apply for guided tours or special exhibitions.
- Guided Tours: Tours are available in Italian and English, focusing on Staglieno’s art and history, including the Tomba Dellepiane. Booking in advance is recommended (Visit Genoa Guided Tours).
Directions and Accessibility
Getting to Staglieno Cemetery
- Address: Piazzale Resasco, 16137 Genoa, Italy (Mapcarta)
- Public Transport: Bus lines 13, 14, 34, 36, 37, 48, and 480 connect the cemetery with Genoa city center and main train stations. Travel time is typically 15–20 minutes.
- By Car: Limited parking is available near the entrance. Taxis are also readily accessible.
- On Foot: The cemetery can be reached by a scenic uphill walk from nearby neighborhoods, though the terrain is steep.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Access: Main avenues are wheelchair accessible, but the cemetery’s hilly layout and some steps may limit access to certain tombs, including parts of Tomba Dellepiane.
- Facilities: Benches, shaded rest areas, and toilets are located near main entrances. An internal shuttle bus (CS line) assists visitors in reaching different sections.
- Visitor Support: Staff at the tourist-cultural infopoint provide maps and assistance in Italian and English.
Guided Tours and Special Events
Staglieno offers thematic and historical tours, typically lasting 90 minutes, which highlight the site’s artistic treasures, including the Tomba Dellepiane. These tours support conservation efforts and can be booked online (Staglieno Official Site).
Unique Features and Artistic Highlights of Tomba Dellepiane
Architectural and Artistic Details
- Style: The tomb blends Neo-Classical architecture with naturalistic landscaping and Art Nouveau elements. Its Carrara marble columns, pediments, and sculptural reliefs exemplify the artistic excellence of 19th-century Genoa.
- Sculpture: Life-sized figures, likely representing family members or allegorical themes, showcase the Realist style. Detailed marble drapery and expressive faces reflect the craftsmanship of sculptors influenced by masters like Giulio Monteverde.
- Iconography: Common motifs include angels, representations of Faith, Hope, and Charity, laurel wreaths, and religious symbols—each conveying themes of immortality and remembrance.
- Setting: The tomb is framed by cypress trees and Mediterranean flora, lending a contemplative atmosphere and providing excellent opportunities for photography.
Notable Nearby Monuments
- Pantheon: Central domed rotunda surrounded by monumental family chapels.
- Raggio Chapel: Known as the “Duomo of Milan” for its Gothic grandeur.
- Statue of Caterina Campodonico: Celebrates the dignity of ordinary Genoese citizens.
Navigating the Cemetery
- Maps & Signage: Collect a free map at the entrance or tourist office to locate major tombs and plan your route.
- Self-Guided Tours: Booklets and online resources provide historical context and suggested itineraries.
- Photography: Allowed for personal use; be respectful of privacy and ceremonies.
Visitor Tips and Facilities
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Weather: Prepare for Genoa’s Mediterranean climate—bring water, sun protection, or rain gear as needed.
- Refreshments: No cafés on-site; bring your own snacks and water.
- Restrooms: Available at the main entrance and select locations.
Best Times to Visit
- Seasons: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Quiet Hours: Early mornings on weekdays are calmest. All Saints’ Day (November 1) and weekends can be busier.
Nearby Attractions
- Palazzo Ducale: Genoa’s historic palace and cultural center.
- Via Garibaldi: Famed for its Renaissance palaces.
- Porto Antico: Waterfront district with museums and restaurants.
- Genoa Aquarium and Old Town: Easily accessible by public transport.
Sustainability and Preservation
- Heritage Status: Staglieno is a protected cultural site. Respect guidelines, avoid littering, and report any vandalism.
- Support: Donations and paid tours contribute to ongoing restoration and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the opening hours of Tomba Dellepiane?
A: The cemetery is generally open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with seasonal variations.
Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: Entry is free; guided tours may require a small fee.
Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, but booking in advance is recommended.
Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Main avenues are accessible, but access to certain tombs can be limited due to terrain.
Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, for personal use. Please be respectful, especially during ceremonies.
Summary and Final Tips
The Tomba Dellepiane, set within Genoa’s Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno, offers a profound encounter with the city’s artistic and historical legacy. Its neoclassical architecture and evocative sculptures highlight both the Dellepiane family’s heritage and the broader narrative of Genoa’s evolution. With free entry, accessible information, and the option of guided tours, visitors can immerse themselves in a site that is both a place of remembrance and a living museum of European funerary art.
For optimal planning, consult the latest updates on official tourism platforms, download the Audiala app for guided content, and respect the solemnity of this remarkable site. Combined with visits to other Genoa landmarks, a trip to Tomba Dellepiane promises a memorable cultural journey.
Interactive Map of Staglieno Cemetery
