Palazzo Farnese

Palazzo Farnese is a Renaissance palace in Ortona standing on elevated ground with eleven windows on each side. The monumental entrance door, seven meters tall, was originally designed to allow carriages to pass through.

Construction began in winter 1583 under the commission of Margherita D'Austria, with architect Giacomo della Porta overseeing the project. Work continued until 1586, when the initial phase was completed.

The palace now hosts the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Cascella Gallery, displaying works by Italian artists including Basilio and Tommaso. The rooms show how this place has become a hub for local artistic creation.

The palace houses a library, art exhibitions, and historical collections accessible during regular opening hours throughout the week. Visitors should plan ahead to fully explore the different areas within the complex.

Three bronze medals were discovered in 1882 when the northeast corner foundation collapsed during construction work on Via Umberto I. The find reveals treasures that had lay hidden beneath the palace grounds for centuries.

Location: Ortona

Architects: Giacomo della Porta

Address: Passeggiata Orientale, 3 - Ortona

Phone: +390859066202

Email: iat.ortona@abruzzoturismo.it

GPS coordinates: 42.35547,14.40406

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:06