The Lighthouse of Genoa, an authentic icon of the city, is the tallest lighthouse in the Mediterranean (77 meters), the second tallest in Europe, and over the centuries it has served as a signaling and armed guard tower, a stage for tightrope walkers, and a prison. It was built in its current form in 1543, and its rotating optic is visible from a distance of 57 kilometers.

The Lighthouse now houses the Museum of the Lighthouse, which, in the first rooms of the riflemen, tells real stories: tales about Genoa and its province, seen through history, art, the territory, characters, and traditions.

Another section of the museum, known as the Cannon Room, is dedicated to the use of maritime instruments and signaling devices at sea. Of particular interest is the Fresnel lens that simulates, for the visitor, the rotating beam of light.

Eight hours of archive footage allow for constantly changing programming on over forty screens distributed throughout its rooms. It is an integral part of Mu.MA - Institution of Museums of the Sea and Migrations of Genoa, which also includes other exhibition venues such as Galata Museum of the Sea, the Commenda di Prè, and the Naval Museum of Pegli.

The Museum of the Lighthouse also periodically hosts thematic exhibitions, family workshops, and educational activities.