Genoa Then and Now - Historical Photo Comparison

A photo journey through Genoa's history. Compare vintage photos of the port, the buses, and the squares with their modern look.

9/1/2025

10 min read

Split image showing Genoa harbour in 1940 vs 2000

Genoa has reinvented itself multiple times. From a maritime republic to an industrial hub, to a tourist city.

The Port

Look at the image above.

Then (1940s): A working industrial port, closed off from the city by walls and customs.
Now: The Porto Antico is an open plaza, accessible to everyone, thanks to the 1992 redesign.

The Transport

Early buses vs. Modern ones. 1950 Bus

In the 1950s, the buses were icons of the post-war boom. Today, the red open-top buses offer a leisure perspective rather than just utility.

The Lanterna

1940 Lanterna

The Lighthouse has stood watch through sailing ships, steamships, waterplanes, and now mega-cruise liners.

L'autore

Archivist

Siamo appassionati delle città sottovalutate d'Italia. Questa guida aiuta i visitatori a sbloccare i segreti di Genova, navigando il suo paesaggio verticale con facilità e comfort.