Since the Middle-Ages, the aristocratic families of merchants and sailors used to settle in Genoa’s ancient downtown, living in lots which were strictly controlled by the families themselves. In the 16th century, those families decided to build new streets and palaces, and they created that extraordinary urban heritage known as Strada Nuova: an elite district characterized by a modem public allotment system and a series of houses aligned along a 250meters long straight stretch of street The houses became real “republican palaces” where rich Genoese merchants, bankers, and financial experts hosted emperors, kings, and ambassadors.
A very innovative system was created. Today, it could be called the “chateaux relais” system, and it meant that important guests were accommodated in private buildings, according to what was envisaged by a XVI century decree by the Senate of the Republic of Genoa that established the “Rolli degli Alloggiamenti pubblici” (or lists of buildings for public accommodation, after which the site is named). The aristocratic families who owned the buildings were to welcome and accommodate the guests of the Republic of Genoa and were to bear all expenses.
This innovative system based on widespread accommodation is now being rediscovered by tourists visiting Genoa; tour guides show people around the Rolli and spectacular events are organized, e.g. the Rom Days#. In addition to the Rolli, the 30 certified “Historical shops” are also being visited and rediscovered.