Italy in Photos

Piazza della Nunziata, 16124 Genova GE, Italy (September 2020)

Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato

The Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato in Genoa is one of the city’s most remarkable religious landmarks, admired for its striking Baroque interior and its role in the artistic and spiritual life of the Ligurian capital. Located just outside the historic centre, near Piazza della Nunziata, the church immediately impresses visitors with its grand façade and monumental presence. While its exterior may appear relatively restrained, stepping inside reveals a breath-taking display of Baroque decoration, gilded stuccoes, and dramatic frescoes that have made it one of the most richly adorned churches in Genoa.

The history of the basilica stretches back to the early 16th century, when construction began under the direction of the Franciscan friars. The term “Vastato*” refers to the area outside the medieval city walls that had been cleared for defensive purposes, providing the space on which the church was erected. Initially designed in a Gothic style, the church underwent significant transformation in the 17th century as wealthy Genoese families sponsored extensive works of embellishment. This patronage turned the basilica into a showcase of Baroque art and a testament to the prosperity of Genoa during its golden age.

The interior decoration is a masterpiece of collaboration between some of the leading artists of the Ligurian Baroque period. The ceilings and domes are adorned with frescoes by Giovanni Andrea Ansaldo, while later artists such as Domenico Piola and Gregorio De Ferrari added their own contributions. Rich marble altars, elaborate stuccoes, and paintings depicting biblical scenes create an overwhelming impression of theatrical grandeur. Every corner of the basilica invites the eye to linger, making it not only a place of worship but also a treasure trove of artistic achievement.

Despite the devastation the church suffered during World War II, particularly from bombings in 1941, extensive restoration has preserved much of its splendour. Today, the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato remains a vital part of Genoa’s cultural and spiritual landscape. It continues to serve as an active parish while also attracting countless visitors who come to admire its art and architecture.

For those exploring Genoa, the basilica offers a perfect example of the city’s ability to blend history, faith, and artistic brilliance. It stands as a monument to the devotion of its patrons, the skill of its artists, and the enduring richness of Genoese culture. To step into its vast interior is to experience the grandeur of Baroque Genoa at its finest.