Palazzo dei Priori and Piazza del Plebiscito
A historic palace showcasing Renaissance art and the site of pivotal papal conclaves, offering a glimpse into Viterbo's influential past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Palazzo dei Priori and Piazza del Plebiscito
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic palace showcasing Renaissance art and the site of pivotal papal conclaves, offering a glimpse into Viterbo's influential past.
"Such a jewel! Stunning frescos, unrivaled history, and such sweet amazing staff!!"
Friendly Staff & Guides
Staff are very welcoming and helpful, with some offering good English explanations. :wave:
Art & History Immersion
Take time to appreciate the art and understand Viterbo's historical significance. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sebastiano del Piombo's Altarpieces
Museo dei Portici
Marvel at the incredible altarpieces by Sebastiano del Piombo, a true highlight for art lovers.
Stunning Frescoes and Ceilings
Various Halls
Wander through halls adorned with breathtaking frescoes and intricately painted ceilings.
Piazza del Plebiscito Views
Palazzo dei Priori Exterior
Enjoy picturesque views of the lively Piazza del Plebiscito from the palace's vantage points.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Embrace the Local History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Friendly Staff & Guides
Staff are very welcoming and helpful, with some offering good English explanations. :wave:
Art & History Immersion
Take time to appreciate the art and understand Viterbo's historical significance. :art:
Check Exhibition Schedules
Look out for temporary exhibitions hosted in the museum spaces.
Capture the Beauty
Don't forget your camera for the stunning frescoes and piazza views!
Tips
from all over the internet
Friendly Staff & Guides
Staff are very welcoming and helpful, with some offering good English explanations. :wave:
Art & History Immersion
Take time to appreciate the art and understand Viterbo's historical significance. :art:
Check Exhibition Schedules
Look out for temporary exhibitions hosted in the museum spaces.
Capture the Beauty
Don't forget your camera for the stunning frescoes and piazza views!
Audio Guide Use
Audio guides are available but may have limited content or pronunciation issues. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Palazzo dei Priori as a hidden gem, highlighting its stunning frescoes, significant artworks like those by Sebastiano del Piombo, and the palpable sense of history. The friendly and engaging staff are frequently mentioned as enhancing the experience. While the audio guide has some limitations, the overall consensus is that it's a beautiful and worthwhile visit that offers a deep dive into Viterbo's past importance.
"A great little museum - we practically had it all to ourselves!
A cute house and some nice artwork to view. Makes you understand how important Viterbo once was.
Staff were very friendly and engaging with good English. Audio guide limited but available, the pronunciation on it and number of items was not great.
All in all a cute place to visit."
thomas braden
"Beautiful place to visit and dive into the history of the palace."
Viktoriia Babii
"We really enjoyed our visit to this museum. Stefano did a great job making us feel welcome and explaining the museum. The two altarpieces by Sebastiano del Piombo were incredible, and it was fun to wander the building to see the beautiful frescoes and paintings on the ceilings. It is absolutely worth a visit whilst in Viterbo."
Adam Bradford Shorr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palazzo dei Priori is centrally located in Viterbo's historic center, easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city. If arriving by car, park in one of the designated parking areas outside the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) and walk. Public transport options include local buses that stop near the main squares.
Yes, the piazza itself is a large, open space perfect for strolling. Palazzo dei Priori is directly on the piazza, making it very easy to access and explore the surrounding historic streets.
Viterbo is reachable by train from Rome (Termini and Ostiense stations) and other major cities in Lazio. Driving is also an option, but be mindful of the ZTL in the historic center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, entry to the museum within Palazzo dei Priori requires a ticket. This ticket often includes access to temporary exhibitions held within the museum.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the museum is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Weekends are typically 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's usually closed on Tuesdays. Always check the official website for the most current information.
Piazza del Plebiscito is a public square and is always free to access and enjoy. The ticket is for entry into the Palazzo dei Priori museum.
Consider the Viterbo Card if you plan to visit multiple attractions in the city, as it may offer combined entry and savings.
You can admire the exterior of Palazzo dei Priori and enjoy Piazza del Plebiscito without a ticket. However, to see the art collections and exhibitions inside the museum, a ticket is required.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find significant artworks, including altarpieces by Sebastiano del Piombo, stunning frescoes, and beautifully decorated ceilings. The building itself is rich in history, having hosted papal conclaves.
An audio guide is available, but some visitors have noted limitations in its pronunciation and the number of items covered.
Palazzo dei Priori is historically significant as the site where several papal conclaves were held, including the longest one in history, which led to the invention of the conclave system.
Yes, the Palazzo dei Priori often hosts temporary art exhibitions and cultural events, such as book presentations or conferences.
Piazza del Plebiscito is the heart of Viterbo's historic center, surrounded by important buildings including Palazzo dei Priori. It's a vibrant public space with fountains and often hosts local events.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always best to check for specific restrictions, especially in areas with delicate artworks or during temporary exhibitions. Flash photography is usually prohibited.
Capture the stunning frescoes and ceilings inside, the impressive facade of the Palazzo, and the lively atmosphere of Piazza del Plebiscito. Views from the palace windows overlooking the piazza are also great.
Drone photography is typically not permitted within historic city centers or around public buildings due to regulations and privacy concerns. Always check local drone laws before flying.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the piazza, details of the fountain, and the architectural grandeur of Palazzo dei Priori and surrounding buildings.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers softer, more flattering illumination for both the interior art and the exterior architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Focus on stories: The 'locked-in cardinals' story is a great hook for kids.
* Keep it brief: Aim for a visit of 1-2 hours to avoid fatigue.
* Piazza exploration: Let kids run around in Piazza del Plebiscito before or after the museum visit.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Recommendations:
* Allocate ample time: Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the art and historical narratives.
* Consider the audio guide: Even with its limitations, it can provide valuable context.
* Research beforehand: Understanding the historical significance of the conclaves will deepen your appreciation.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Solo traveler tips:
* Embrace the quiet: Visit on a weekday morning to have the museum almost to yourself.
* Engage with staff: They are a great resource for local history and tips.
* Enjoy Piazza del Plebiscito: Use the piazza as a peaceful spot to relax and observe local life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Papal Conclaves at Palazzo dei Priori
The prolonged conclave not only highlighted the need for a more efficient election process but also demonstrated the influence of the local populace on church affairs. The reforms implemented by Pope Gregory X, following this lengthy election, included stricter rules for cardinal gatherings and the introduction of the conclave system as we know it today. Exploring the halls of Palazzo dei Priori offers a tangible connection to this pivotal period in Catholic Church history.
Today, visitors can still feel the weight of history within these walls. While the specific rooms where these events unfolded might be part of the museum exhibits, the overall atmosphere of the palace evokes its past as a center of significant ecclesiastical decision-making. It's a fascinating aspect that adds a layer of depth to a visit beyond just appreciating the art.
Artistic Treasures within the Palazzo
Beyond del Piombo, the palace is adorned with stunning frescoes and intricately painted ceilings throughout its various halls. These decorative elements showcase the skill of local artists and contribute to the opulent atmosphere of the building. Wandering through these rooms, visitors can admire the vibrant colors and detailed narratives depicted in the artwork, many of which have been beautifully preserved.
Many visitors are struck by the sheer beauty and historical significance of the art on display. The combination of grand architectural features and exquisite artwork makes the Palazzo dei Priori a significant cultural destination. The friendly staff often enhance the experience by providing context and insights into the pieces, making the visit both educational and enjoyable.
Experiencing Piazza del Plebiscito
Visitors often enjoy the lively atmosphere of the piazza, which can be enhanced by the presence of fountains, outdoor cafes, and sometimes local events or markets. It's a perfect place to sit and people-watch, or to simply admire the architectural beauty of the surrounding structures. The views from the palace windows looking out onto the piazza are particularly noteworthy, offering a unique perspective.
Whether you're arriving at Palazzo dei Priori or departing, spending time in Piazza del Plebiscito is an essential part of the Viterbo experience. It’s a place where history, culture, and daily life converge, offering a charming glimpse into the city's enduring appeal.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit