The aquarium was originally constructed for the 1992 Genoa Expo to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's voyage.
It is a founding member of the Mediterranean Marine Mammal Protection Area.
The facility features a 'Tactile Pool' allowing visitors to interact with stingrays.
The aquarium's 'Blue Ship' building design is intended to mimic a vessel moored in the harbor.
It maintains a specialized hospital and rescue center for injured sea turtles and marine mammals.
The shark tank is deep enough to accommodate multiple species, including zebra sharks and blacktip reef sharks.
The jellyfish exhibit uses specialized lighting to highlight bioluminescence and transparency.
The aquarium houses an Antarctic exhibit, one of the few in the world to maintain sub-zero temperatures for its inhabitants.
The Acquario di Genova is the largest aquarium in Italy and one of the largest in Europe, housed in a distinctive ship-shaped structure designed by architect Renzo Piano. Located in the renovated Old Port (Porto Antico) area, it occupies over 3,000 square meters and hosts approximately 15,000 animals across 200 species. The facility features massive tanks recreating various aquatic environments, including the Mediterranean, the Indian Ocean, and the Antarctic. It serves as an active research and conservation center, notably for marine mammal protection. The path through the aquarium spans several levels, integrating immersive tunnels and interactive displays. It maintains a partnership with international scientific organizations for ongoing biodiversity studies. Its location at Ponte Spinola makes it a central anchor for the Genoese waterfront's urban redevelopment.
The glass walkway overlooking the dolphin pool provides a clear, expansive view of the animals.
Book tickets online in advance to bypass the main ticket office queues.
Visit the marine mammal tanks during scheduled feeding times to see the dolphins more active.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the walking route covers significant ground over multiple levels.
Avoid arriving during the mid-afternoon on weekends, as wait times can be significant and paths become crowded.
Flash photography is strictly prohibited in most animal habitats to avoid distressing the aquatic life.
