Though a holiday, America’s capital, a country, and numerous cities are named in his honor, Christopher Columbus set a precedent of genocide, slave trafficking, and abuse of indigenous peoples that was followed for hundreds of years.

For that, I’m not a fan. Apparently neither is his hometown, Genoa, Italy, where I saw only a few small mentions of the late Chris.

Genoa has all the history of a Florence or Venice, without the throngs of tourists. All the original culinary delight for a good bit cheaper.

Its houses are stacked on hills looking down on the historic port of Genoa, now brimming with yachts, fishing boats, and cruise ships. The stone streets of its Old Town are narrow and sloping.

Photos:

Some of the most expensive yachts I’ve ever seen.

Stumbled upon this major Catholic event.

Caught this adorable rat eating spaghetti, no joke. He was too quick and it was too dark to get a good photo.

A bit larger than the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Genoa’s boardwalk aquarium is extensive and fascinating.

Like many cafes in Genoa, this one offered fresh-baked breakfast treats, a perfect cappuccino, and fresh-squeezed orange juice, all of which can be had for about 5 bucks.

The Old Wild West Steakhouse

And finally, my favorite of all the great Italian wonders, the Italian Greyhound (mix?).