Aquarium of Genoa
Liguria
The Aquarium of Genoa, located in the Old Harbour area of Genoa, Liguria, is Italy's largest and one of Europe's most important aquariums. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano as part of the urban redevelopment for Expo 1992, it attracts over 1.2 million visitors annually. The aquarium houses approximately 12,000 animals from more than 600 species across over 70 tanks, which recreate diverse marine and terrestrial ecosystems ranging from tropical seas to polar regions. Notable themed areas include Shark Bay, the Lagoon of the Sirens, the Cetacean Pavilion, and the Kingdom of Ice. The facility spans 27,000 square meters and includes a largest tank holding 1.2 million liters of water. Visitors can observe a wide variety of species such as bottlenose dolphins, manatees, sharks, seals, penguins, and tropical fish. The Cetacean Pavilion, opened in 2013, offers multi-level viewing including underwater tunnels and large glass walls for dolphin observation. The aquarium is also deeply involved in scientific research, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education, offering programs like behind-the-scenes tours and overnight experiences for children. The aquarium's sophisticated water management system uses seawater filtered and sterilized to maintain optimal conditions for its diverse inhabitants. Open year-round, it is a must-visit for marine enthusiasts and families alike.
Plan your trip to Italy with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit during weekdays or off-peak hours to avoid crowds. Purchase tickets online in advance to secure preferred entry times and enjoy flexible options. Take advantage of discounted rates for seniors, military personnel, children, and visitors with disabilities. Don't miss the twice-daily dolphin feeding sessions and consider joining special programs such as behind-the-scenes tours or the unique "Night with the Sharks" overnight experience for children. Parking is available 24/7 but cannot be reserved, so arriving early is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •The Aquarium of Genoa is the largest aquarium in Italy and one of the most significant in Europe.
- •It houses around 12,000 animals representing over 600 species in more than 70 tanks.
- •The largest tank holds approximately 1.2 million liters of water, one of the biggest in Europe.
- •The Cetacean Pavilion features a 15-meter underwater glass tunnel and a 20-meter acrylic panel for dolphin viewing.
- •The aquarium attracts over 1.2 million visitors annually, making it one of Italy's top marine attractions.
- •It uses seawater drawn from six miles offshore, filtered and sterilized to maintain optimal water conditions.
- •Special programs include overnight stays for children in front of the shark tank to observe nocturnal behavior.
History
The Aquarium of Genoa was inaugurated in 1992 as part of the Genoa Expo '92, celebrating the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's voyage to the Americas.
Designed by architect Renzo Piano, the building resembles a ship ready to sail and was initially conceived to showcase marine ecosystems reflecting both Old and New World encounters.
The aquarium opened to the public on October 12, 1993, with exhibits designed by Peter Chermayeff and his team.
In 1998, the aquarium expanded by adding the Biodiversity Pavilion housed in a repurposed ship hull.
In 2013, the Cetacean Pavilion was opened, enhancing dolphin and marine mammal displays.
Over time, the aquarium has grown into a major scientific and educational institution, emphasizing conservation and public awareness.
Place Guide
Shark Bay
A themed area showcasing various shark species in a large multi-level tank, allowing visitors to observe these predators from multiple perspectives.
Lagoon of the Sirens
An exhibit recreating a tropical lagoon environment inspired by the mythological sirens, featuring diverse tropical marine species.
Cetacean Pavilion2013
Opened in 2013, this pavilion is dedicated to marine mammals such as bottlenose dolphins and manatees, featuring open-air tanks, a 15-meter underwater tunnel, and a 20-meter acrylic viewing panel.
Kingdom of Ice
An exhibit replicating polar environments, showcasing species adapted to cold habitats such as penguins and seals.
Biodiversity Pavilion1998
An expansion added in 1998 housed in a converted ship hull, featuring tactile tanks where visitors can touch rays and exhibits including freshwater and rainforest species such as turtles, snakes, and iguanas.
Contact
Phone: 010 23451