Area del Porto Antico

The layout of the whole area and the various architectural constructions in the Old Port, among which is the now famous Aquarium which was built by Renzo Piano for the international Expo of 1992 in commemoration of the 5th centenary of the discovery of America, have now become a perfect example of the coexistence of old buildings and modern edifices. The salvaging and refurbishment of the historic port and of the old town centre nearby, have all helped in the re-establishment of the tourist trade within the city. The new "marinaro" area is constantly brought to life through sound, light and colour and has various attractions dedicated to free time and culture. Therefore, Genoa is no longer solely a city of art, but also a seaside town offering child-size fun and relaxation. If one enters from the main entrance in piazza Caricamento, the first thing to be seen is the large profile of the Acquario di Genova, the largest one in Europe, which resembles a large ship moored on the dock at Ponte Spinola, from which extends a splendid pathway, the Via del Mare, which leads straight to the "floating" Piazza del Mare. Other places of interest are the Galleon (used by Roman Polansky in the film "the Pirates"), the buildings of the Cotton Stores (Cineplex, modern multiscreen, Cinemotion in 3 D, Video games, the great Music Store, the Citta dei Bambini, la De Amicis Library, the Padiglione del Mare e della Navigazione), the original Museo Nazionale dell'Antartide "Felice Ippolito", housed in the Millo, and even the imposing Porta Siberia (o del Molo), with the nearby pool-theatre, the Mandraccio and various commercial outlets, as well as the cafes and the restaurants. During the winter months the Piazza delle Feste has an ice-skating rink, while during the summer various concerts and plays are held there. A must is a trip on the Bigo, the rotating panoramic lift which offers a view over the entire city. The 16th and 17th century buildings of the Deposito Franco have been carefully restored and are now the headquarters for Porto Antico S.p.A, the management and operating company for the whole complex. They also house the Tourist Information Office, where one can obtain up to the minute news of events being organised within the area where the expo was once held.

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