The legend of the ghostly chariot from Porta dei Vacca is one of the most famous legends of Genoa. It is said that during the night of Good Friday and the dawn of Easter, a ghostly chariot emerges from the Porta dei Vacca, located just outside the city’s medieval walls. The chariot is led by a mysterious hooded spirit pulled by a fantastic steed, and is said to carry the souls of those who have been struck by violent or sudden death to places of greater peace. Legend has it that the ghostly chariot goes up along today’s Fountains Street and then ascends the heights of the Carbonara Valley.It is said that among the souls the spectral wagon carries is that of Vacchero, one of the many souls caught in violent death. The story of the Vacchero is often associated with the legend of the spectral wagon of Porta dei Vacca. In fact, the Vacchero is said to have been a shepherd who, after quarreling with a neighbor, was killed by the latter. Since then, his spirit has continued to roam the area where the murder occurred.If you are looking for the ghostly chariot of Porta dei Vacca, but have not been able to find it, you could always meet the spirit of Vacchero on Via del Campo or see visions leaking from the nearby fountain. In any case, the legend of the ghostly wagon of Porta dei Vacca continues to fascinate the Genoese and visitors to the city.
