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What draws us to cemeteries? Is it a fascination with the inevitable end, or perhaps the art and emotion they encapsulate? Unlike the stark gravestones found in my own country, places like Staglieno celebrate the passage of life with breathtaking sculptures. I can only hope that when my time comes, I will be commemorated with something equally artistic. In other words, a simple stone just won't suffice.
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In Genoa, the Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno stands as a remarkable testament to the city's rich history and artistic heritage, even outshining the renowned Père Lachaise in Paris. Since 1832, after burials were prohibited within churches and churchyards, new spaces had to be consecrated for those who passed away. In a city as affluent as Genoa, creating such a place was a monumental undertaking.
The visionary architect Carlo Barabino, known for designing the illustrious Teatro Carlo Felice, conceived the idea for Staglieno. Tragically, he did not live to see his masterpiece realized in 1851, as he succumbed to the devastating cholera epidemic of 1835. His disciple, Giovanni Battista Resasco, took the helm and introduced the iconic Pantheon in 1840. This design later served as an inspiration for many European cemeteries, including the Père Lachaise in Paris.
If you find yourself in the region, a visit to Staglieno's "100 Women" section is an absolute must. This area is a poignant tribute to the women of the 19th and 20th centuries, capturing their essence and the societal roles they played through stunning artistic expressions.
The photographs shared here aim to convey the unparalleled beauty of Staglieno. Due to photography restrictions, these images are provided courtesy of the Municipality of Genoa and the Staglieno website. Visiting this open-air museum is an experience like no other, one that deeply touches the soul and celebrates the art of remembrance.
