Founded in 958, Genoa is located on the northwest coast of Italy as the capital of the Province of Genoa and the region of Liguria.  Often called “La Superba,” (“the proud”) Genoa boasts a rich history; its earliest inhabitants dating back to the 5th century by the Ligurian tribe.  Since then, it has flourished as a port city and important trade center.

Sister City History

Columbus and Genoa began its sister city relationship in 1955 when Genoa donated a statue of Christopher Columbus to the city of Columbus.  As Genoa was the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa saw it fitting to donate to Columbus a representation of its namesake, the common thread between the two cities.  The relationship as sister cities was formalized in 1985 with the signing of a Sister City Agreement.

Economy

The Genoan economy is built upon tourism and business through its port, which is the largest in Italy.  However, it is also moving toward a more service-based economy, as it is becoming an important center for communications, insurance, and banking.

Education

Like Columbus, Genoa is home to many institutions of higher education.  The University of Genoa, one of the largest universities in Italy, was founded in the 15th century and remains one of the most popular universities.  Other institutions include:  the Italian Shipping Academy; the Ligurian Academy of Fine Arts; the Niccolò Paganini Conservatory; the Italian Hydrographic Institute; and the Italian Institute of Technology.

Culture

Genoa has many beautiful and historical buildings and structures, but it also values its parks and green spaces, maintaining 82,000 m2 in the town’s center.  It is also home to the Genoa Aquarium, the largest in Italy, as well as two professional sports teams, the Genoa Cricket and Football Club and U.C. Sampdoria.