A pair of peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) guards the Lighthouse by generations: they are nicknamed "Zena", from the name of the city (Genoa in the local idiom), and "Cris", diminutive of “Cristoforo” (Colombus, the famous genoese captain and explorer).

Every year, the couple have at least two chicks (3 in 2015). They are supported by LIPU, the Italian Society for Protection of Birds. In case of need for help, they are supported also by the ENPA (the National Association for the Protection of Animals) volunteers.

The peregrine falcon is considered the fastest animal in nature, reaching over 320 km/h (200 mph). They are loyal animals, usually looking for a new partner only after the death of the previous one.

It is not uncommon to find them in the cities, on bell towers or very tall buildings.

(Source and photos from LIPU)

In response to continuous damage caused by the thunders and by the military approaching in 1771, the tower was chained up with bolts and tie-rods, which are still visible today from the interior.

At the same time some engraved plaques were put up on the tower, to protect the lighthouse on its four sides, above the first panoramic balcony: they are still visible to visitors.

In 1778, the lanterna was equipped with lightening conductor, which was created by the physic P.G. Sanxsais, and, in 1791, consolidation works were made at the first tower’s base to make it more solid.

To reach the first panoramic balcony, whose access to the public is allowed by the Navy, you have to climb 172 steps. From here, 70 metres above the sea, you can enjoy an amazing and original 360° view of the city and its port.

Some panels in the “belvedere” in the Park, show the evolution of the Sampierdarena district: it was a vacation district outside the walls of Genoa, looking at the lighthouse, symbol of the City, where european Aristocrats could spend their holidays until the 30s of last century, when it was turned into an industrial area.

The ramparts defended the “Porta Nuova”, completed in 1831 to replace the 17th century one, which led to Genoa from the west. This imposing gate has been removed from its original location, now placed against the fortifications inside the park. The gate was built by the will of King Carlo Felice and its frieze decorations recall the façade of Genoa’s Opera Theatre, named after the same king.

Visiting the external areas you can see the bastions of what was a majestic defensive system, founded at the Lanterna in 1626.

The walls were completed in 1639, reaching a length of about 20 km, thereby becoming the longest city wall in Europe and second in the world, in terms of length, only to the Great Wall of China.

The last modification dates back to the 19th century, under the Kingdom of Savoy.

The Promenade of the Lanterna was designed and built in 2001 by the architect Andrea Marenco with “Architettiriuniti” and “Studio4”, with the aim of connecting the city with its symbol and creating a “balcony” overlooking the Port of Genoa, thereby returning the port area to the city.

The route, which is about 800 metres long, follows the 17th and 19th century walls, retracing the ancient road that passed through the Lanterna Gate, leading people coming from France and Northern Europe into the city. Nowadays, it has been designed so that visitors can go directly from the Ferry Terminal to the Lanterna.
At the moment, the walk is interrupted shortly after its start by a work in progress area. You can continue by turning in Via Milano along the construction site and following it until just before the entrance to the tunnel, where there are some stairs with indications for the Lighthouse.

Considering its steel and wood structure, it is necessary to go along the promenade carrying any bicycles by hand.