Genova, Italy. Palazzo Balbi-Durazzo, today known as Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), was built in the 17th century by the Balbi family, based on the designs of Pier Francesco Cantone. In 1677, it was inherited by Eugenio Durazzo, who transformed it into an impressive Baroque-style building, reminiscent of a Roman palace. In 1824, it came into the possession of the Royal House of Savoy, who adopted it as their Genoese residence, hence the name Palazzo Reale, or Royal Palace.