Winter Rolli Days debut in Genoa with De André theme

Genoa's historic Rolli Days, the event dedicated to UNESCO-listed palaces, will hold its first winter edition from January 19 to 21, 2024. The program is inspired by Fabrizio De André, marking 25 years since his death (Genoa, 1940 – Milan, 1999), particularly his song "Bocca di Rosa" with its contrast between sacred and profane love. This edition's theme is contrasts—social, urban, and artistic—in a "Ballad for Genoa." The list of open sites and collateral events will be published online soon, with reservations required. The Rolli palaces originated in the 16th century when the Ducal Palace could not accommodate all state visitors. In 1576, the Senate created the "Rolli degli alloggiamenti pubblici," lists of aristocratic palaces whose owners were obliged to host dignitaries at their own expense. These palaces, often designed by architect Galeazzo Alessi in late Renaissance and Baroque styles, feature open staircases, courtyards, and loggias overlooking gardens, with original Mannerist and Genoese Baroque decorations. On July 13, 2006, UNESCO inscribed the Strade Nuove and 42 of the 163 palaces on the World Heritage List. During Rolli Days, many of these incredible residences—often public, even more often private—will be open to visitors.