Palazzo del Monte di Pietà

Palazzo del Monte di Pietà is a mannerist palace on via XXIV Maggio in Messina. The facade displays a central rusticated portal with a broken pediment, flanked by windows featuring triangular pediments on each side.

Construction began in 1616 under architect Natale Masuccio, with major renovations carried out in 1741. These later modifications added a new floor and a bell tower to the building.

The building originally functioned as a pawnshop to help lower-income residents of Messina access credit. This practical role shaped it as a place of community support rather than a grand private residence.

The interior features a large vaulted hall that opens into a courtyard, which connects to the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà by way of a monumental staircase. The layout allows visitors to easily see the main architectural features and flow between spaces.

A statue of Abundance carved by sculptor Ignazio Buceti stands at the center of the grand staircase, dating from the 1741 renovation period. This sculptural figure remains a remarkable detail that many visitors overlook while exploring the spaces.

Location: Messina

Architects: Natale Masuccio

Architectural style: mannerism

Floors above the ground: 2

Website: http://comune.messina.it/turismo/itinerari-turistici/palazzi/monte-di-pieta.aspx

GPS coordinates: 38.19468,15.55273

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:24