On Saturday the Mediterranean Tall Ships arrived in Genova for a four day stay. It’s the last stop after a three week tour along the coast of Spain, France and Italy. 50,000 people flooded the port area to admire the ships and to check out the various events and exhibitions being held in celebration. The ships range in age from less than one year old to more than 160 years and range in size from about 10 meters to 100 meters. Most are open to the public to board during the day. The main attraction is the Amerigo Vespucci, a giant 3 masted Italian Navy training ship built in 1931.

Back on land, an Americas Cup racing boat, complete with 15 foot rudder, has been set up so you can really get a feel for the ship’s height. An open air market, which attracts specialty food vendors and artisans from across Italy, fills the open space in Piazza Caricamento opposite the aquarium. Tempting arrays of cheese, spices and pastries are all on display.

Saturday night was capped off by a brilliant fireworks display over the port above the illuminated ships. At 1 o’clock in the morning when the fireworks began, it felt like most of the 50,000 spectators from the day were still there to watch the show. On a weekend like this, you would never think that 15 years ago, not only was this area devoid of development, but the public couldn’t even access the harbor front.

Last Modified : July 30th, 2007
Filed under : Italy, Arts and culture
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