The interior contains frescoes by Giovanni Battista Carlone that were executed between 1640 and 1660.
The facade was unfinished for centuries, receiving its current neoclassical appearance only in 1843.
The Lomellini family, who were rulers of the island of Tabarka, commissioned the majority of the basilica's artistic interior.
The church houses a prominent sculpture of the 'Assumption of the Virgin' by Domenico Parodi.
The interior layout consists of three naves with a large central dome, a design intended to showcase the vast wealth of the 17th-century Genoese elite.
The Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato is a premier example of Genoese Baroque architecture, notably featuring a facade reconstructed in the 19th century. Its interior is defined by a dense program of 17th-century frescoes and gilding that covers nearly every surface. The church was originally part of a Franciscan convent complex established in the 16th century. It served as the familial church for the Lomellini family, prominent Genoese aristocrats who financed much of its artistic decoration. The vault paintings by Giovanni Battista Carlone represent some of the most significant mural works in Northern Italy. The altar features works by master artists such as Andrea Ansaldo and Domenico Fiasella. It remains a functioning Catholic basilica located at the intersection of the historic center and the port area.
From the center of the main nave looking directly up toward the dome to capture the symmetry of the frescoed vaulting.
Bring a small flashlight or use your phone light to better appreciate the detailed gilded carvings in the side chapels.
Look specifically at the ceiling of the central nave to see the narrative frescoes which remain in near-original condition.
Do not visit during ongoing religious services, as tourist activity is restricted in the main nave during mass.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; maintain silence as it is a place of active worship; refrain from using flash photography.
