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Post Savona's Port: History of Its Destruction and Restoration
Created by John Eipper on 04/17/23 2:44 AM

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Savona's Port: History of Its Destruction and Restoration (Eugenio Battaglia, Italy, 04/17/23 2:44 am)

John E asked for more details on the destruction of Savona's port by the Genoese in the 16th century.

The first defeat of Savona was in 1440, but Genoa limited itself to sinking several old ships in Savona's harbour to close it to large vessels. In 1528 Genoa destroyed the structures and filled in the port for good. The population of Savona was soon reduced to one-third of its pre-1528 level.

Some improvement came under the rule of Napoleon, who sent Gilbert Chabrol de Volvic as prefect of the Department of Montenotte (13 Km from Savona, site of Napoleon's first victory on 12 April 1796). Chabrol de Volvic was also the jailer of Pope Pius VII when he was "prisoner" in Savona. By the way, the residence of this Pope is now on sale for 700,000 euros. The residence is said to remain as it was 200 years ago, if you are interested...

But the definitive reconstruction of the port of Savona started in the second half of 19th century and continued into the 20th century. It was again destroyed in WWII, but again rebuilt under the supervision of my wife's uncle. Now it is a fairly good port connected with the port of Vado which handles oil, containers and ferry-boats. The only problem: the newly built container facilities are 49.9% owned by the Chinese: 40% Cosco and 9.9% Quindao Port International. But news came last March that Quindao is leaving and probably also Cosco. No official confirmation and no reasons for the departures, if they are confirmed.

Pretty soon Italy should renew its membership in the BRI (China's Belt and Road Initiative). Most probably Meloni as a very good lackey of the Empire will not renew the agreement. But independence is an impossible dream.

JE comments: Those cursed Genoese. I found the Papal listing below, complete with two bathrooms and a "kitchenette." No photos of the kitchen. In today's market, €700K doesn't even sound that expensive. Must be a fixer-upper. "Just bring your tools!"

Sale Apartment in via Pia. Savona. To be refurbished, second floor, ref. 101481093 (immobiliare.it)