The life of the sea

Genoa, the capital of Liguria, was the capital of one of the Maritime Republics from the 11th century to 1797. From the 12th to 15th centuries it played a leading role in trade in Europe, becoming one of the greatest naval powers. It was considered among the richest cities in the world. It was also nicknamed the Superb by the writer Francesco Petrarch. Today the face has changed but the history can still be felt among the imposing monuments, large ornate palaces and narrow caruggi. Famous, in fact, for having the largest historic center in Europe, for its defensive forts, and for focaccia and pesto, Genoa also attracts young and old alike for the Old Port, the Aquarium, and the Children's City, the latter within easy walking distance of the Piazza Principe Station.
The Aquarium and the three Ligurian Marine Protected Areas (Portofino, Cinque Terre and Bergeggi) are committed to contributing to the achievement of the UN Agenda 2030 goals. A new room dedicated precisely to the Marine Protected Areas system was recently inaugurated.   "Located on the second floor of the exhibition itinerary, the room features four tanks with numerous species of Mediterranean fish and invertebrates and three video stations where visitors can admire the beauty of Liguria's marine protected areas, learn about the protection and safeguarding activities that are carried out by the Coast Guard at sea and, thanks to an innovative underwater webcam system, dive in real time to the seabed of the Bergeggi Island Marine Protected Area," the company explains. "Inside the new hall, the important issue of plastic pollution is addressed through two design installations made of recycled plastic from ghost nets recovered from the sea that pose a serious threat to many marine species." If children and adults alike are enchanted to admire tanks of fauna from distant worlds-think sharks, stingrays, dolphins, penguins, uniquely colored jellyfish, are to name a few species-the company continues along the lines of research. Joining forces to protect and conserve a delicate natural heritage known to few are in addition to Acquario di Genova:   Milano-Bicocca University, Maldives National University and University of Dubai. An international scientific collaboration undertaken to study and save the mangroves, a group of trees and shrubs, of the Maldives and the United Arab Emirates, unique ecosystems that provide vital habitat for numerous marine and terrestrial species, protect coastlines from erosion, play a key role in mitigating hurricane damage and, by absorbing large amounts of carbon from the atmosphere, contribute to the fight against climate change.
Finally, to mark your agenda: from July 1, the non-profit Fondazione Acquario di Genova Onlus engages visitors with the in-depth "The Mediterranean Sea, a treasure chest of biodiversity to be protected." Every day until Aug. 13, 2024, an expert takes the public on a thematic journey to understand the essential role the Oceans play in the health of the Planet and the importance of the Mediterranean Sea, considered a biodiversity hotspot. Appointments, included in the entrance fee, are two per day, at 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m., for a maximum of 20 participants. A tip: In addition to the fish, visit the Biosphere by renowned architect Renzo Piano and Genoa from above. Ride the well-known Bigo panoramic elevator. To see the city from a unique position and imagine how far the sea can penetrate into human history.