With its new look, the 17th-century Palazzo Durazzo does not disappoint.
Long known as a hub for Mediterranean yachting and home to leading superyacht shipyards, Genoa now sees one of its most storied landmarks restored to grandeur with the reopening of Palazzo Durazzo. Overlooking the city’s historic port and tucked within its atmospheric Old Town, this 17th-century noble residence has been transformed into a refined 12-suite hotel, offering a unique perspective on Genoese hospitality.
Commissioned in 1624 by the powerful Durazzo family, the palazzo remains under the stewardship of their descendants. Its recent seven-year restoration, completed in 2023 and led by architect and co-owner Emanuela Brignone Cattaneo, brings three decades of experience in heritage preservation—most notably on the city’s UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli—to bear on her family’s own history. Original terrazzo floors, frescoed ceilings and grand salons have been sensitively restored, with contemporary design elements introduced which complement rather than compete.
Art director Cesare Barro played a key role in shaping the new aesthetic and each of the 12 suites is individually conceived. Il Doge offers marina views beneath a celebratory frescoed ceiling; La Capella features its own gilded chapel; while L’Oriente combines Chinoiserie wall coverings with sculptures by Domenico Parodi. For an understated feel, La Cupola and I Costumi provide a calming retreat.
Ideally located near Via Garibaldi and the medieval harbour, Palazzo Durazzo places guests in the heart of Genoa—for those wishing to explore the Ligurian coast, a private boat is on hand for escapes to Portofino or the Cinque Terre. Nevertheless, you’ll be yearning to return to this historic masterpiece to continue an experience that’s as timeless and characterful as its walls.
