Palazzo Alliata Villafranca
About This Museum
You'd never guess that this grand palazzo, now so serene, was once nearly sliced in half by a new city street. Saved from the planner's axe, it stands as one of the few noble residences in Palermo that still feels truly lived-in. Stepping inside is like walking directly into the 18th century, with its ballroom glittering under chandeliers and private chapel whispering of family devotion. It’s not a sterile museum; it’s a home that has simply opened its doors to us.
Collection Highlights
The real showstoppers are the Sicilian old masters—like that haunting 'Our Lady of Solitude' by Pietro Novelli, which seems to follow you with her eyes. You'll also find an impressive hoard of ancient coins minted right here in Sicily and delicate porcelain that graced the family's dinner table for generations.
Visitor Information
Tucked away on Piazza Bologni, just a stone's throw from the Quattro Canti, it's a perfect escape from the city bustle. Do check their website for opening times as they can vary, and keep an eye out for the occasional evening concert in the courtyard—it's pure magic.
Architecture & Building
A magnificent example of Sicilian Baroque, with a dramatic courtyard you enter through a grand archway off the piazza. The interiors are a lavish feast of frescoed ceilings, intricate stuccowork, and soaring marble staircases that speak to the immense wealth and taste of the Alliata family.
Contact & Location
Address: Piazza Bologni, Albergheria, I Circoscrizione, Palermo, Sicilia, 90140, Italia
Phone: +39 324 071 5043
Website: Visit Website
