Genoa, Italy – Genoa, if you ignore the debate among scholars, is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. But after visiting the famed historic port, you might wonder why the explorer ever left.

A woman was seen posing provocatively with a statue in Florence, prompting widespread criticism from locals and authorities.

A monument to Christopher Columbus looms over Piazza Acquaverde in Genoa, Italy, in this 1894 photograph. (Bettmann Archive/Getty Images) ...

Scientists confirmed this month that a crucifix in the Italian city of Lucca is the oldest wooden statue in Europe.