The Rolli of Genoa were official registers of the Republic’s most prestigious noble residences. Through a system of drawing lots (the ‘bussoli’), the owners of these palaces had the honour and the responsibility of hosting kings, princes and ambassadors on state visits. In 1622, the great Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens was so captivated by these residences that he dedicated a famous book of drawings to them, holding them up as an architectural model for the nobility across the continent. Today, 42 of these more than 100 historic palaces are recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. On this tour, you will explore spectacular courtyards, roof gardens, monumental staircases and frescoed galleries in the palaces situated along the ancient Strade Nuove and in the narrow streets of the historic centre.