The Castello di San Giorgio sits on the hill above the city centre, reached by a short steep walk or by a lift from Piazza Mentana. The castle dates to the 13th century, was refortified by the Genoese, and now contains an archaeological museum with finds from the Ligurian and Roman periods — notably marble sculptures and prehistoric statue-stelae (upright stones carved with human features) that are unique to this corner of Liguria.
The views from the castle walls are the best in the city: on a clear day you can see across the Gulf of La Spezia to Porto Venere and the islands beyond, and north towards the Cinque Terre cliffs. The walk up through the old quartiere del Poggio is worthwhile in itself — the neighbourhood is one of the oldest in the city and has a different character from the lower town.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday; times vary seasonally. Entry: small fee.