Aquarium of Genoa

The Aquarium of Genoa (Acquario di Genova) is the largest aquarium in Italy and one of the most significant in Europe. It is located in the Old Harbour (Porto Antico) area of Genoa, Liguria, and was designed by the architect Renzo Piano as part of the urban redevelopment project created for the Expo 1992, celebrating the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s voyage to the Americas. The aquarium is operated by Costa Edutainment S.p.A. and is a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). It attracts over 1.2 million visitors each year. The facility houses around 12,000 animals representing more than 600 species, displayed in over 70 exhibition tanks that recreate marine and terrestrial ecosystems from around the world — from tropical seas to polar regions. Among its main themed areas are the Shark Bay, the Lagoon of the Sirens, the Cetacean Pavilion, and the Kingdom of Ice. In addition to its exhibition role, the Aquarium of Genoa is actively involved in scientific research, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education, promoting educational programs and initiatives aimed at raising public awareness about marine ecosystems