Christopher Columbus’ House

Christopher Columbus. Of course, the name rings a bell, especially so in Genoa. He’s best known for his deep passion for exploration, that led him to the Americas in 1492. But his birthplace still remains a mystery. Many historians have tried to solve it, and most agree that Columbus was Genoese, and the house in front of you may be where he was born, around the year 1451. Now that’s quite the scoop! In the 15th century, this neighbourhood was home to a community of artisans. Among them was Domenico Colombo, Christopher’s father, a wine merchant by trade, but above all a wool comber. This trade was common in medieval Italy, and involved untangling wool fibres and brushing them with a carding comb. Domenico’s workshop was set up on the ground floor of this modest house. It’s believed the Colombo family lived here until Christopher was about nine. We’ll never know for sure, but just picture it, what if you could’ve knocked on that door and met the man who would go on to change the world, as one of the greatest explorers of all time? Though narrow and weathered by time, this humble home continues to fascinate passersby, both from the outside, and the inside. Guided visits are also available if you want to see more.