Botteghe storiche:
One of the most fascinating surprises of Genoa's historic centre and neighbourhoods is discovering its historic shops (botteghe storiche).
These consist of traditional shops and artisanal businesses active for at least 70 years (and in many cases, 200 years and more!): these shops are a treasure of which Genoa is exceptionally rich, and discovering them while strolling through its streets is a unique and authentic experience. They are refined confectioneries and chocolate shops, fabric and clothing stores, and tailor shops capable of creating handmade ties that have reached the Royal House of England; spice shops, fry shops, and tripe shops, each with its own characteristic aromas; workshops that keep alive traditional techniques for working glass, manufacturing stamps, or perhaps corks; shops housed in ancient buildings integrated into the fabric of the historic centre, featuring period furnishings and equipment, safeguarding a wisdom of bygone eras. To preserve this immense heritage, a “Register of Historic Shops” has been established, in which those businesses active for at least 70 years are included, provided they meet at least three of the five required criteria: the preservation of original and still functioning architectural elements, furnishings, equipment, or historic instruments; the conservation of documentation testifying to the history of the business; the environmental context in which they operate. There are 59 shops already included in the Register by the Superintendency for Architectural Heritage, the Municipality of Genoa, and the Genoa Chamber of Commerce; many other businesses are awaiting evaluation to enter this prestigious club of Genoese commerce and shopping excellence. Furthermore, a Register of Traditional Venues (which, at present, number 23) and Venues of Cultural Interest has been established. For the updated list of shops, latest news, and all information, you may also consult the Botteghe Storiche Genova website. Furthermore, a map geolocating the historic shops has been created by the Information Systems department of the Municipality of Genoa, which can be consulted at the following link: Geoportal of the Historic Shops of Genoa.