Galata – Museo del Mare

Overview

The Galata – Museo del Mare is the largest maritime museum in the Mediterranean, occupying a restored 17th-century arsenal building at Porto Antico. Its four floors trace Genoa's relationship with the sea from medieval galleys to transatlantic emigration, with a Cold War submarine moored outside.

Highlights

• Emigration exhibition: A moving, immersive recreation of the 19th-century emigrant experience — from steerage cabins to Ellis Island.
• Full-scale galley: A reconstructed 17th-century Genoese war galley that visitors can board and explore.
• Submarine Nazario Sauro: The decommissioned S-518 submarine moored at the dock, included with a combined ticket.

History

The museum opened in 2004 in the Quartiere Galata, a former arsenal and shipyard dating to the 1590s. The building was restored by Spanish architect Guillermo Vázquez Consuegra. The emigration section opened in 2011, reflecting Genoa's role as Italy's largest emigration port between 1876 and 1914.

Visitor Tips

• Submarine tour: Book the combined museum + submarine ticket — the below-decks experience is unforgettable.
• Interactive elements: Many hands-on exhibits make this excellent for families.
• Duration: 2–2.5 hours including submarine.