Staglieno Monumental Cemetery
A vast, hillside necropolis in Genoa, Italy, showcasing breathtaking 19th-century funerary art and sculpture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Staglieno Monumental Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, hillside necropolis in Genoa, Italy, showcasing breathtaking 19th-century funerary art and sculpture.
"Spectacular! One of the most incredible cemeteries/ "art museums of sculptures" that you will ever see."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is huge and hilly. You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Especially crucial on hot summer days; mosquitos can be quite aggressive.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oneto Tomb
Formal Quadrangle
A masterpiece of neoclassical sculpture, depicting angels and a grieving widow. A true artistic marvel.
Caterina Campodonico Tomb
Hillside Section
An elaborate, almost theatrical monument showcasing the wealth and devotion of a Genoese merchant.
Raffaele Pienovi Memorial
Hillside Section
A poignant sculpture of a young widow's last goodbye, capturing raw emotion in marble.
Joy Division Connection
Various
The iconic cemetery that inspired album art for the legendary band Joy Division.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scale and Artistry
Timing is Key for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is huge and hilly. You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Especially crucial on hot summer days; mosquitos can be quite aggressive.
🚶♀️ Consider a Guided Tour
Enhances understanding of history and art. Book in advance if possible.
📸 Fantastic Photo Ops
Every corner offers incredible shots of sculptures and architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is huge and hilly. You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Especially crucial on hot summer days; mosquitos can be quite aggressive.
🚶♀️ Consider a Guided Tour
Enhances understanding of history and art. Book in advance if possible.
📸 Fantastic Photo Ops
Every corner offers incredible shots of sculptures and architecture.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno as an awe-inspiring open-air museum, highlighting its vast scale, incredible sculptures, and profound historical significance. While some find the sheer size and hilly terrain challenging, the artistic merit and unique atmosphere make it a highly recommended and unforgettable experience for art lovers and history buffs alike.
"This is a cemetery on an epic scale. It can be viewed as two sections; the formal quadrangle with vast two storey galleries lined with statuary and cremation urn compartments, and the informal layout which, much like Genova itself, is carved out of the hillside.
The Genoese take death seriously. Sumptuous monuments tell a story with life size family members grieving over the deceased surrounded by angels to help them on the journey to the afterlife. Others like to compare themselves to gods posing majestically. The quality and indeed the quantity of statuary is remarkable.
On the hillside is a village of the dead with named roads, monuments as big as churches, some that look like small houses, and again full of statuary. The tree-lined roads go on forever. And steps lead off these to off-road terraces cut in to the slope, each an individual avenue of graves. There is a lot of steps. Some have subsided and restoration is never ending.
No space is left empty. Urn compartments are stacked 5m high and step ladders are provided for changing flowers in the vases and batteries in the lanterns. Even the roofs of the galleries are lined with cremation urn compartments.
I always say if you want to understand the history of a place look at its architecture. In the case of Genova, you should also look at this cemetery."
herm dig
"Fascinating place. Well worth the visit. We took the bus from the old city, which is easy if you have a 24-hour or multi-day pass. We were there on a hot July day and the mosquitos were ferocious! So many amazing works or art. Great photo opportunities."
Alex Macdonald
"The Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno in Italy is a breathtaking open-air museum that showcases stunning sculptures, intricate tombs, and serene landscapes. this cemetery is a must-visit destination for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Highlights:
- Artistic Masterpieces-The cemetery features exquisite sculptures, from neoclassical to baroque styles, that adorn the tombs of notable figures. The Oneto Tomb, designed by Giulio Monteverde, and the Caterina Campodonico tomb are standout examples of artistic grandeur.
- Historical Significance-Staglieno Cemetery is the final resting place of influential figures like Giuseppe Mazzini, a key architect of Italy's unification, and Constance Lloyd, Oscar Wilde's wife.
- Serene Atmosphere-The cemetery's peaceful environment, lush greenery, and serene landscapes create a tranquil retreat from the city.
- Cultural Impact-Staglieno has inspired notable visitors like Mark Twain, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Guy de Maupassant, and has even featured on Joy Division's album covers.
Tips for Visitors-
- Guided Tours-Consider taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and artistry of the cemetery.
- Plan Your Visit-Allocate at least half a day to explore the vast grounds, and visit early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, as the cemetery covers a large area with uneven paths.
-Practical Information-
- Address-Piazzale Giovanni Battista Resasco, 2, 16137 Genova GE, Italy
-Hours-Monday to Sunday, 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Overall, the Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno is a captivating destination that offers a profound journey through art, history, and culture. Its stunning sculptures, serene atmosphere, and historical significance make it an unforgettable experience"
ASIF khan (Shinwari)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily reach the Staglieno Monumental Cemetery from Genoa's old town by taking a bus, such as line 13 or 34. Many visitors find it convenient to use a 24-hour or multi-day public transport pass.
Parking can be challenging due to the cemetery's location and popularity. Using public transport is generally recommended for a smoother arrival.
The cemetery is vast and spread across a hillside. Maps are available, but a guided tour can provide excellent orientation and context.
While possible, it's a significant uphill walk. Taking public transport is a more practical option for most visitors.
Yes, buses like line 13 stop directly at or very near the cemetery entrance, making it accessible for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the Staglieno Monumental Cemetery is free. However, there is a fee for guided tours.
The cemetery is typically open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check the official website for any seasonal changes or specific holiday hours.
Since entry is free, no advance booking is required for general access. If you plan to take a guided tour, booking ahead is advisable.
The main restriction is the closing time. It's important to be aware of the closing hours to ensure you have enough time to explore and exit before it closes.
Generally, yes, the cemetery remains open on public holidays, but it's best to confirm the specific hours for any holiday you plan to visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged, as the cemetery is renowned for its stunning sculptures and artistic merit.
While generally permitted, it's always respectful to avoid photographing private memorials too closely or intrusively.
The formal quadrangle with its galleries, the hillside sections with elaborate tombs, and specific sculptures like the Oneto Tomb offer incredible photographic opportunities.
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods, to avoid obstructing pathways. It's best to check on-site regulations if you plan to use one.
While not always explicitly advertised as 'photography tours,' guided tours often highlight the most photogenic spots and provide historical context.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Given its size and the wealth of art, allocate at least half a day, or even longer, to truly explore and appreciate the cemetery.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. Cafes or extensive dining options are limited within the cemetery itself, so plan accordingly.
The cemetery is built on a hillside with many steps and uneven paths, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. The formal quadrangle is more accessible than the hillside sections.
You'll find a vast array of sculptures in various styles, from neoclassical to baroque, depicting angels, grieving families, and allegorical figures. It's a true open-air museum.
Yes, Staglieno is the final resting place of influential figures like Giuseppe Mazzini, a key figure in Italian unification, and Constance Lloyd, Oscar Wilde's wife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the visual spectacle: Point out the different statues, the angels, and the sheer scale of some of the family mausoleums. The post-mortem photography exhibits (like those from the Victorian era) can be a point of discussion about history and how people remembered loved ones.
Remember to emphasize the importance of respectful behavior. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking and hills involved. 🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Dedicate ample time to explore the formal galleries and the sprawling hillside. Look for specific masterpieces like the Oneto Tomb or the Campodonico Tomb, and appreciate the diverse styles from neoclassical to more dramatic baroque. The cemetery's historical significance is also profound, being the resting place of key Italian historical figures.
📸 Photographers
Explore different angles and lighting conditions. The formal galleries offer a sense of symmetry and order, while the hillside sections provide dramatic vistas and more intimate tomb details. Early morning light can be particularly magical for capturing the atmosphere. Be mindful of other visitors and maintain a respectful distance when photographing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Staglieno: A Sculptural Masterpiece
Beyond individual tombs, the cemetery's design itself is a work of art. The formal quadrangle features vast, two-story galleries lined with statuary and cremation urn compartments, creating a sense of grandeur and order. In contrast, the informal hillside layout, carved into the landscape, resembles a 'village of the dead' with named roads and monuments as imposing as small churches. This blend of structured design and organic integration with the natural environment makes Staglieno a unique artistic experience.
Visitors often remark on the sheer quality and quantity of the statuary, noting how the monuments reflect the wealth and social standing of the deceased. The artistry here is so profound that it has inspired artists and writers for generations, with figures like Mark Twain and Friedrich Nietzsche having visited and been moved by its solemn beauty.
Navigating Staglieno: Practicalities and Perspectives
To make the most of your visit, consider the timing. Weekday mornings are generally recommended to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Be prepared for the weather; on hot summer days, mosquitos can be a nuisance, so bringing repellent is a wise precaution.
While the cemetery is free to enter, many visitors find that a guided tour significantly enhances their understanding and appreciation of the art, history, and symbolism. These tours can provide context that might otherwise be missed, turning a walk through graves into an insightful cultural journey.
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