La Lanterna (Genoa Lighthouse)

La Lanterna is Genoa's ancient lighthouse and its enduring civic symbol, a slim stone tower rising 77 metres from a rocky promontory near the modern ferry terminal and standing some 117 metres above the sea. Origins date to around 1128, and the present two-tiered tower was rebuilt in 1543, making it one of the oldest working lighthouses in the world; its beam still guides shipping into the busy port. Visitors reach it on foot by a scenic walkway running for about 800 metres along the top of the old 17th-century harbour walls, with views over the docks and cranes on the way. At the base, a museum set in the former fortifications tells the story of the lighthouse and the city's maritime history through models, lenses and multimedia displays. From there a climb of 172 steps leads to the first panoramic terrace, level with the old keeper's quarters, which gives a wide outlook over the port, the city and the coastline. A visit takes around an hour to an hour and a half including the walkway and museum. Access is mainly at weekends for much of the year, with longer daily hours in summer, and the terrace is closed in high wind or rough seas, so checking lanternadigenova.com before setting out is wise. The site is rarely crowded, and the most atmospheric visit is on a calm, clear afternoon. The walkway itself, the tower seen against the sea and the rooftop panorama are the standout photographs. La Lanterna lies just west of the centre of Liguria's capital, reached from the ferry terminal near Genova Piazza Principe, and pairs well with the old port and the maritime museum a short distance along the waterfront.