Touring Genoa and its symbols: the Cathedral of San Lorenzo is the historical, artistic and religious heart of the city.

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I continue to show you some things about Genoa, the Ligurian capital that marked my life for 20 years of living there before returning to my country of origin.

Today I am going to refer to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo which, among its somewhat peculiar characteristics, preserves an intact bomb inside, which fell during a bombing in World War II and remained unexploded. A testimony to the madness of humanity and some rulers blinded by power and pride.

When we talk about the hand of God we are perhaps referring to events like this.

The majestic Cathedral of San Lorenzo is the historical, artistic and religious heart of the city of Genoa and is therefore one of the most beloved symbols of the Superba.

The façade features splendid Gothic portals, unique in Italy, for which French craftsmen were called in the third decade of the 13th century.

During the Second World War, Genoa suffered many bombings and in 1941, during a bombardment by the English fleet, a shell pierced the roof of the Cathedral but miraculously remained unexploded.

It is impossible not to be enchanted by the majesty of its black and white striped façade, the bell tower that dominates the historic centre, the meticulous details that contribute to making the building a true architectural jewel. It is the cathedral of San Lorenzo, the most important church in Genoa.

Built around 1098 on a previous basilica from the 5th-6th century and enlarged over the centuries with solemn and precious forms, the cathedral dedicated to San Lorenzo Martyr houses the ashes of the city's patron saint, San Giovanni Battista, who arrived in Genoa at the end of the First Crusade.