In recent years, Genoa has come a long way from the somewhat narrow-minded, unwelcoming, city it once appeared to be, and has rediscovered its traditions linked to the sea and trade that made it the "Gateway to the Mediterranean", where people with different stories, traditions, customs and languages have crossed paths for over 10 centuries.

Since the start of the new millennium, the city's LGBT community has begun to find places to meet and socialise in the Historic Centre, amid its alleys and squares where the first bars opened their doors, and which today are home to many gay-friendly pubs, dance clubs, restaurants and shops.

Since 2008, Genoa has made a name for itself as a "City of Rights", and in 2009 hosted its first Gay Pride event, which was enthusiastically welcomed and participated in throughout the city, with rainbow flags and balloons decking the streets for the occasion.

• For news and updates, please visit the following site (in Italian): www.arcigaygenova.it
• To find information on gay-friendly bars, hotels and beaches, please visit: arcigaygenova.it

For any questions, concerns, problems or disputes regarding  sexual orientation, gender identity or status as a couple, the lawyers of the Arcigay Legal Office can be contacted free of charge every Thursday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM