History of the Corso Italia Promenade - Genoa

Before the Corso Italia (opened in 1915), the coast was a jagged line of cliffs and small abbeys.

The Vision

Genoa wanted a "Promenade des Anglais" like Nice. They blasted the rocks, built the seawalls, and created the wide sidewalk you drive along on the bus.

• The Villas: Look to your left (away from the sea). The Art Nouveau (Liberty) villas were built by the wealthy who wanted sea views.
• San Giuliano: The abbey of San Giuliano (still there!) is the only survivor of the pre-promenade era, looking slightly out of place among the lidos.