Savona is located in the region of Liguria in northern Italy. The city is an important seaport and at one point used to be the most important city in Italy for heavy industries. Savona gained its popularity first because of its resident, Christopher Columbus who often mentioned the town in his letters and journals while describing his travel ventures.

The place that used to be the residence of Christopher Columbus still exists in the city as well as some other houses that have been associated with him in the past. Over the centuries the city has been under the rule of the Romans as well as the Lombards, the influences of both can be seen throughout the city.