Villa Centurione Del Monastero

Villa Centurione del Monastero: Visiting Hours, Ticket Info, and Complete Guide to Genoa’s Hidden Gem

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Villa Centurione del Monastero is one of Genoa’s most fascinating historical sites, blending centuries of religious, aristocratic, and artistic legacy. Located in the heart of Sampierdarena, this villa traces its roots to a 13th-century Benedictine monastery and has evolved across the Renaissance and Baroque periods into a remarkable example of Genoese architectural and cultural heritage. Today, it stands not only as a monument to the city’s past but also as a vibrant center for culture, education, and community life. This guide provides detailed information on the villa’s history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and more, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Historical Overview

Medieval Origins

The villa’s story begins in 1221, when a Benedictine convent dedicated to Santa Maria del Santo Sepolcro was founded on this site (Ville Storiche Sampierdarena). The medieval cloister—one of the few surviving elements—offers a rare glimpse into Genoa’s sacred monastic history. In 1514, the convent was suppressed by papal decree, passing briefly to Augustinian fathers before acquisition by the prominent Centurione family.

Renaissance Transformation

In 1587, the estate was transformed by Barnaba Centurione Scotto into a “dimora di delizia,” or pleasure residence (it.wikipedia.org). The new villa featured a rectangular plan, grand loggias, and extensive gardens, seamlessly integrating remnants of the medieval structure. Decorative bas-reliefs and sculpted motifs—such as tritons and dragons—adorned the entrance, signifying the family’s status and Genoa’s artistic ambitions.

Baroque and Later Developments

The villa suffered during the 1684 French bombardment, leading to significant restoration and stylistic updates in 1750 under Abbot Giolfi (Ville Storiche Sampierdarena). During the Napoleonic era, the property was requisitioned for municipal use before returning to private hands, then repurposed as a civic school and library in 1850. A major neo-Renaissance facelift in 1912 added stucco cornices, tympana, and decorative brackets—blending historic grandeur with early 20th-century tastes (Comune di Genova).

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

The Medieval Cloister

Integrated into the villa’s courtyard, the medieval cloister features ancient arches and stonework, preserving the spiritual atmosphere of the original convent (Ville Storiche Sampierdarena). This tranquil space contrasts beautifully with the villa’s later Renaissance and Baroque details.

Renaissance and Baroque Features

The villa retains its 16th-century rectangular layout and symmetrical loggias, while entrance bas-reliefs and sculpted dragons evoke the era’s mythological and artistic influences (Restauro e Conservazione). Inside, visitors will find a rich cycle of frescoes inspired by Ovid’s Metamorphoses and Virgil’s Aeneid, reflecting the intellectual aspirations of the Centurione family.

Sala Barabino and Artistic Treasures

A focal point is the Sala Barabino, the grand hall on the piano nobile, adorned with frescoes by Bernardo Castello (1557–1629). The most recent restoration, completed in 2025, stabilized the cane-and-plaster vault, repaired woodwork, and meticulously cleaned the frescoes. Two restored Murano glass chandeliers from the early 20th century now illuminate the space, highlighting Genoa’s artistic heritage (Primocanale; Comune di Genova).

Restoration and Preservation

Villa Centurione del Monastero has benefited from significant restoration efforts, particularly in recent years. These have included:

Conservation of frescoes by Bernardo Castello, revealing vibrant original colors.
Structural reinforcement of historic masonry using minimally invasive techniques.
Facade and roof repairs to protect against weathering and environmental damage.
Restoration of historic gardens and the preservation of the iconic defensive tower.

These initiatives have been supported by the Italian Ministry of Tourism and local heritage projects, ensuring the villa remains accessible and relevant to modern audiences (Comune di Genova).

Visitor Information

Location and Getting There

Address: Piazza del Monastero 6, Sampierdarena, Genoa, Italy
Public Transport: Easily accessible by bus (lines from Genoa city center) and by train to Sampierdarena station, followed by a short walk.
Parking: Limited parking nearby; public transport is recommended.

Visiting Hours

Open to the public during special cultural events, especially Rolli Days (spring and autumn).
The villa functions primarily as a school and library, so daily visits are not possible outside these occasions.

Tickets and Guided Tours

Entry: Free during Rolli Days and most public events (Rolli Days Program).
Guided Tours: Offered during events; advanced booking recommended due to limited availability.
Group Visits: Can sometimes be arranged by contacting the Comune di Genova.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access is available in main areas, though some historic sections have stairs and uneven surfaces. Contact ahead for special accommodations.

Visitor Tips

Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, coinciding with Rolli Days.
Photography: Allowed in most areas, but restrictions may apply for delicate artworks.
Visitor etiquette: Respect preservation efforts and follow guides’ instructions.

What to See

Medieval Cloister: Rare monastic remains, tranquil and atmospheric (Ville Storiche Sampierdarena).
Sala Barabino: Stunning frescoes by Bernardo Castello and Murano glass chandeliers (Primocanale).
Architectural details: Bas-reliefs, dragons, and neo-Renaissance façade elements (Restauro e Conservazione).

Nearby Attractions & Travel Tips

Explore other Sampierdarena villas: Villa Imperiale, Villa Doria, and public gardens (“Il Giardino Europeo”) (Comune di Genova).
Dining: Enjoy Ligurian cuisine in nearby cafes and restaurants.
Combine visits: Plan your itinerary around other Rolli Days sites or Genoa’s historic center.

FAQs

Q: Is Villa Centurione del Monastero open year-round?
A: No, public access is mainly during special events such as Rolli Days.

Q: How do I book a tour?
A: Advance reservations are required for guided tours during public openings; check the Rolli Days or Comune di Genova websites.

Q: Can I visit with limited mobility?
A: Main areas are accessible; contact staff for details.

Q: Are there entry fees?
A: Entry is generally free during Rolli Days; booking is recommended.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, except in designated areas.

Visuals and Media

Image suggestions: Exterior view with alt text “Villa Centurione del Monastero facade in Genoa”; medieval cloister; Sala Barabino frescoes.
Interactive map: Embedded map of Sampierdarena and villa location.
Virtual tours: Check official websites for digital resources.

Plan Your Visit and Get Involved

Support the villa’s preservation by joining guided tours, participating in educational programs, or contributing to restoration initiatives. Stay updated via official social media channels and consider downloading the Audiala app for interactive maps, audio guides, and the latest event news.

Internal Links Suggestions

Summary & Recommendations

Villa Centurione del Monastero is a highlight of Genoa’s villa circuit, blending medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque legacies into a site of outstanding historical, artistic, and community value. Plan your visit around cultural events, explore its unique artistic treasures, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Genoese history that the villa embodies. For updated visiting hours, ticketing, and event information, consult the official Rolli Days program and Comune di Genova website. Don’t forget to enhance your experience with the Audiala app and take part in Genoa’s ongoing cultural revival.