Palazzo Abatellis is a 15th-century palace in Palermo’s Kalsa quarter, now home to the Regional Gallery of Sicily. Its Gothic-Catalan architecture is part of the visit: look for the decorated entrance and inner courtyard as you explore the collection of Sicilian art, from medieval works to the Baroque period. Highlights include Antonello da Messina’s Annunciation and the large Triumph of Death fresco by an unknown artist. The galleries also contain sculptures, paintings, woodwork and decorative arts.
A palace built for Francesco Abatellis
Matteo Carnelivari designed Palazzo Abatellis in the late 15th century for Francesco Abatellis, a senior official at the court of Ferdinand of Spain. The building is a notable example of Gothic-Catalan architecture. Its square plan, decorated entrance and inner courtyard give the palace its distinctive character. A two-storey loggia lines one side of the courtyard.
The palace was completed in 1488, according to one account, and was built in the 1490s according to another. Its history continued beyond its years as a residence: it became a convent in the early 16th century and remained in religious use until the 19th century. Bomb damage during the Second World War was later repaired in a major restoration. The building now houses the Regional Gallery of Sicily.
Sicilian art across the galleries
The collection brings together art from Sicily, including paintings, sculpture, woodwork and decorative arts. Its range spans the Middle Ages and later periods, with works from the Renaissance and Baroque eras. The palace’s former chapel is among the spaces used for the collection.
Two works draw particular attention. Antonello da Messina’s Annunciation, also known as the Virgin Annunciate, presents a striking subject from the Renaissance. The Triumph of Death is a large fresco by an unknown artist. Its central figure is a skeletal personification of Death on horseback, with a scythe raised above the people below. Give the fresco time: its scale and vivid subject make it one of the gallery’s defining works.
Other works to look for
The collection also includes sculpture by Francesco Laurana, including a sculpture of Eleanor of Aragon, and works associated with Antonello Gagini. Medieval woodwork and Renaissance paintings add to the range beyond the gallery’s best-known pieces. Informative displays help place the works in context, and restoration activity has taken place within the museum halls.
The museum is smaller than some major galleries on mainland Italy, but the collection gives a focused view of Sicilian art. Visitors interested in painting can spend time with the Annunciation and the fresco; those drawn to the building should also look closely at the courtyard and architectural details.
Planning a visit
Palazzo Abatellis is at Via Alloro 4 in Palermo’s Kalsa quarter. It is closed on Mondays. The museum is open on Sundays until early afternoon, while its other open days run into the evening. Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month; the museum otherwise charges admission.
The entrance, elevator and restroom are wheelchair accessible. Check the museum’s official website for current ticket and visit information before setting out, especially if you plan to visit on a free-entry Sunday.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Palazzo Abatellis?
It is at Via Alloro 4 in Palermo’s Kalsa quarter.
What are the highlights inside Palazzo Abatellis?
Look for Antonello da Messina’s Annunciation and the Triumph of Death fresco by an unknown artist. The collection also includes Sicilian paintings, sculpture, woodwork and decorative arts.
Is Palazzo Abatellis free to enter?
Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month. The museum otherwise charges admission.
Is Palazzo Abatellis wheelchair accessible?
The museum has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, elevator and restroom.
