Palazzo Giacomo Spinola "dei Marmi" (Spinola Palace), Genoa

Standing at number 6 on Marose Fountains Square, the Giacomo Spinola Palace has been quietly showing off since the mid-15th century. Built between 1445 and 1450 for Giacomo Spinola himself, it later earned a place on the official Rolli lists and, much more recently, the UNESCO World Heritage status. These days, however, its most regular guests are bankers, as the building now serves as the headquarters of the Bank of Sardegna.

The façade makes a strong first impression. Its striking black-and-white stonework is not just decorative flair but a badge of honor. Only four families in Genoa were allowed this visual power move: the Doria, the Spinola, the Fieschi, and the Grimaldi. Adding to the family pride, niches along the façade hold statues of illustrious Spinola ancestors, quietly reminding passersby exactly who they’re dealing with.

Architecturally, this palace also set an important precedent. It was the first in Genoa to fully exploit a hillside behind the main structure, building upward rather than outward. This clever solution opened the door-sometimes literally-to unexpected ponds, gardens, and terraces tucked away from street view, a layout that would later become a hallmark of Genoese noble architecture.

Urban change arrived in the 19th century, when 25th April Street was opened, and the level of Marose Fountains Square was lowered. Add to that a round of 20th-century restoration work, and you might expect dramatic alterations. In reality, the palace barely flinched. Its defining features and overall character survived largely intact, a testament to both sturdy construction and careful intervention.

Unfortunately for curious visitors, this is one palace you’ll have to admire from the outside. As an active bank headquarters, it’s closed to the public. Still, even from the square, the Giacomo Spinola Palace tells a clear story of family ambition, architectural innovation, and the kind of quiet confidence that never needed to shout.