Palazzo Blu is an art museum in a restored historic palace on Lungarno Gambacorti, beside the Arno in central Pisa. Its blue façade makes it easy to spot; inside, permanent displays bring together Italian paintings, sculpture, furniture and other objects from different periods. Temporary exhibitions change over time and have included shows devoted to artists such as Picasso and Dalí, so check the current programme before your visit. It’s a useful stop for art lovers looking beyond Pisa’s better-known monuments, and the displays include information in Italian and English.
A palace beside the Arno
Palazzo Blu stands on Lungarno Gambacorti, along the southern bank of the Arno in Pisa’s historic centre. Its name comes from the blue exterior, which sets the building apart from the surrounding streets. The palace is also known as Palazzo Giuli Rosselmini Gualandi, after one of the families associated with it.
The building has served as a noble residence and was restored for its present cultural role. Inside, visitors can see historic rooms alongside the museum displays. The setting gives the art a connection to the city’s domestic and architectural history, rather than placing every work in a neutral gallery space.
The permanent collection
The museum’s permanent displays bring together works from Pisan and Tuscan collections, with material spanning several centuries. Paintings are central, but the displays also include sculpture, furniture, coins and archaeological objects. Artists represented include Benozzo Gozzoli, Francesco da Volterra and Artemisia Gentileschi.
The arrangement is divided into sections and takes visitors through different periods of Italian art. Rooms with antique furnishings and architectural details help convey the palace’s former use. Information panels are available in Italian and English, giving independent visitors a way to follow the displays without relying on a tour.
Temporary shows and planning a visit
Temporary exhibitions are a major part of Palazzo Blu’s programme. Past shows have focused on internationally known artists including Picasso, Dalí, Warhol, Kandinsky and Escher. The subject changes, so look at the museum’s current programme before setting aside time or buying a ticket. A temporary show may be the main reason to visit, especially if you have a particular artist or period in mind.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with later closing times on Saturdays and Sundays; it is closed on Mondays. Free lockers can be used for bags and jackets. Some visitors find the audio guide less useful than the information panels, so decide whether you want the extra commentary before choosing it. After the museum, you can continue along the river or walk to the nearby Keith Haring Tuttomondo mural.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Palazzo Blu in Pisa?
It is on Lungarno Gambacorti, beside the Arno in the historic centre of Pisa.
What can you see at Palazzo Blu?
The permanent displays include Italian paintings, sculpture, furniture, coins and archaeological objects. Temporary exhibitions change over time.
How long should you allow for Palazzo Blu?
About 60 minutes is enough for a typical visit.
Is Palazzo Blu closed on any day?
Yes. The museum is closed on Mondays.
