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The Legend of the Wind and the Devil — Genova
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Ghosts and Legends 📍 Genova, Italy 349 views

The Legend of the Wind and the Devil

There is a legend about a night when the spirit of the wind and the Devil took a walk through the alleys of the city. When they arrived at the Archbishop's Palace, the Devil told the wind that he had to go inside to have a word with some high prelates. However, some believe that...

Photo · Clarissa K.

The Legend of the Wind and the Devil — Genova, Italy.

Location
Genova
Type
Ghosts and Legends
Opening hours
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About The Legend of the Wind and the Devil

The Legend of the Wind and the Devil - Genova | Secret World Trip Planner

There is a legend about a night when the spirit of the wind and the Devil took a walk through the alleys of the city. When they arrived at the Archbishop's Palace, the Devil told the wind that he had to go inside to have a word with some high prelates. However, some believe that the Devil never made it out of the palace, suggesting that he was held back by some evil individuals who frown upon the Church. Since then, the wind spirit has continued to blow up and down Salita dell'Arcivescovado waiting for his companion to come out.Instead, others say that the Devil was forcefully driven out of the Archbishop's Palace and quickly left the area without alerting the wind spirit, who is still waiting for him today.

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Start with The Legend of the Wind and the Devil, then continue with nearby places selected by Secret World.

  1. 01
    Morning
    The Legend of the Wind and the Devil
    📍 Genova
    Start here
  2. 02
    Afternoon
    Crypt of Andrea Doria
    📍 0.1 km away
  3. 03
    Evening
    Cathedral of San Lorenzo
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Keep exploring · Genova

Crypt of Andrea Doria 📍 0.1 km away Cathedral of San Lorenzo 📍 0.1 km away Museum of the Ancient Principality Mint 📍 0.2 km away Carlo Felice Theatre of Genoa 📍 0.2 km away The ancient palace stands on a building area purchased in the auction of 1551 and is 📍 0.3 km away Palazzo San Giorgio and Marco Polo 📍 0.3 km away Genoa and the Royal Palace 📍 0.3 km away Christopher Columbus House 📍 0.3 km away

Frequently Asked Questions

According to local legend, the wind spirit and the Devil walked through the city's alleys and arrived at the Archbishop's Palace, where the Devil went inside to speak with high prelates. The wind spirit has been waiting on Salita dell'Arcivescovado ever since, as either the Devil was trapped inside the palace or mysteriously departed without notifying his companion. This enduring legend has made the street a fascinating destination for those interested in local folklore and supernatural tales.
Salita dell'Arcivescovado is located near the Archbishop's Palace in what is traditionally a historic part of the city with medieval architecture and narrow alleys. The street is easily accessible on foot from central areas, and visitors should look for directional signs pointing toward the Archbishop's Palace, as the salita (narrow street/alley) winds upward in that direction. The best time to visit is during daylight hours or early evening when the atmospheric alleys are most safely explored.
One version claims that the Devil never escaped the Archbishop's Palace and was held back by evil individuals within who opposed the Church. The alternative version suggests that the Devil was forcefully driven out by the palace inhabitants and quickly fled the area without alerting the wind spirit to his departure. Both versions explain why the wind spirit continues to wait on the street to this day, creating an intriguing mystery for visitors to contemplate.
The Archbishop's Palace remains a significant historical landmark near Salita dell'Arcivescovado and is still an important religious and architectural site in the city. While access inside may be limited, visitors can view the palace's exterior architecture and walk along the nearby Salita dell'Arcivescovado to experience the atmospheric medieval setting where this legendary encounter supposedly took place. The location offers excellent photo opportunities and a sense of the city's rich historical and spiritual heritage.
The salita is a narrow, winding alley typical of historic city centers, so wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for steep terrain as you explore. Visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety, and take time to observe the medieval architecture and atmosphere that brings the centuries-old legend to life. Local guides or tourism offices can provide additional context about the legend and the historical significance of the Archbishop's Palace for a richer understanding of this supernatural tale.

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