Chiesa di Sant'Agostino (Church of Saint Augustine), Genoa

The Church of Saint Augustine is one of the city’s few surviving Gothic churches, tracing its origins back to around 1260 when it was built by Augustinian friars. The striking black-and-white striped facade, pointed-arch portal, and large rose window are classic features of Ligurian Gothic architecture . Though no longer consecrated, the church now serves as an auditorium and is part of the Museum of Ligurian Sculpture and Architecture, housed within the former convent.

Inside, the church still features a spacious three-aisle design, marked by pointed arches and solid stone columns. High windows along the upper walls let in natural light, highlighting the original vaulted ceilings and restored frescoes. Outside, the medieval bell tower-decorated with maiolica tiles-stands out against the surrounding rooftops.

The adjoining museum features an impressive collection of Ligurian sculpture and architectural fragments-from 10th-century capitals and 12th-century lions to funerary monuments such as the tomb of Simone Boccanegra, the city’s first doge-many rescued from demolished churches. These artifacts span from the early medieval period through the Renaissance and Baroque eras.

Following extensive restoration efforts led by architects Albini and Helg in the late 20th century, the complex reopened in 1984. Today it functions as both a museum and cultural venue, hosting theater performances, concerts, and exhibitions in the beautifully preserved church space.