Apostolic Palace, Museum building near Basilica della Santa Casa in Loreto, Italy
The Apostolic Palace is a building adjacent to the Basilica della Santa Casa, housing eight halls with artworks including paintings by Lorenzo Lotto and pieces gathered over centuries of pilgrimage history. The structure contains collections accumulated throughout different periods.
Construction of the palace began in 1468 under architect Donato Bustamante, who integrated defensive elements due to Turkish raids threatening the Adriatic coast. These protections safeguarded the sanctuary during a period of regional vulnerability.
The palace displays a silver and ebony crucifix crafted by Giambologna, a gift from Joan of Austria to the sanctuary that reflects the importance pilgrims and nobles placed on this site.
Access to the museum is through the main entrance on Piazza della Madonna, with guided tours available throughout the day in multiple languages. Visitors should expect possible waiting times, especially on busy pilgrimage days.
The building preserves a collection of medieval pharmacy vessels that once held herbs and remedies available to pilgrims. These artifacts document the daily reality of those who visited the sanctuary.
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