Presentation and tour
The late 16th-century Branciforte Palace was owned by the Branciforte and Lanza families. The Branciforte were one of the most influential families of the Palermo nobility, connected to the political and cultural affairs of the city.
It was enlarged in the early 17th century to become one of the most luxurious residences in the city, with Baroque decorations, including frescoes and stuccoes in the main halls, as well as the creation of a central patio typical of the city’s noble palaces.
It was ceded in 1801 to the Senate of Palermo, its use shifting toward administrative and cultural activities.
The interior architecture combines Renaissance and Sicilian Baroque styles, with inner courtyards, monumental staircases and ceilings decorated with frescoes and stuccoes. The central patio is surrounded by arcaded galleries.
Among the remarkable architectural elements are carved stone portals, wrought-iron balustrades, old wooden doors, and coffered ceilings with decorated panels.
Acquired by the Fondazione Banco di Sicilia in 2005, it was restored in 2012 to become an important cultural centre, with a museum (archaeology, philately, numismatics, sculpture and ceramics); a historic library; former halls of the Monte di Pietà with wooden structures that host art exhibitions; the “city of taste” (città del Gusto) and its cooking school; a restaurant; an auditorium; a shop selling publications and objects related to art, gastronomy and wine.
The palace regularly hosts temporary contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events such as conferences, concerts and educational workshops.
Where is the Branciforte Palace in Palermo
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Information
Palazzo Branciforte
Largo Gae Aulenti, 2, 90133 Palermo
The Palazzo Branciforte is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6 pm (closed on Mondays), with guided tours of about 45 minutes at fixed times. Advance booking is recommended, and admission is charged (full price ~13 €, reduced price ~11 €, free for school groups and certain categories). Additional opening hours may be offered during exhibitions or special events.
Sources and external sites
- Official website: www.palazzobranciforte.it
- External sites: turismo.comune.palermo.it