Palazzo Spinola National Gallery occupies a sixteenth-century noble residence on Piazza di Pellicceria in Genoa’s historic centre. Its rooms retain frescoes, period furnishings and decorative objects, so the paintings are seen in the setting of a former aristocratic home. Look for the historic picture collection, including Antonello da Messina’s Ecce Homo, as well as ceramics and porcelain. The visit follows a clear route through the palazzo’s rooms. Your ticket is also valid at Palazzo Reale, making it easy to pair the two museums.
A noble residence turned gallery
Palazzo Spinola stands in Genoa’s historic centre, in Piazza di Pellicceria. The building began as a residence associated with Francesco Grimaldi, whose family history is linked to the origins of Monaco’s ruling dynasty. It later became the home of the Spinola family. Francesco and Paolo Spinola gave the palazzo to the state in 1958, with its historic character preserved as part of the gift.
The building entered Genoa’s Rolli system at the end of the sixteenth century. These rooms retain the character of a Genoese aristocratic residence, with interiors and furnishings that help place the art in its original domestic context. The palazzo is now home to the National Gallery of Liguria.
Paintings and interiors
The collection brings together paintings and decorative arts in rooms still furnished to reflect the residence’s past. Among the works to look for is Antonello da Messina’s Ecce Homo. The broader collection includes paintings by Genoese, Flemish and other European artists, alongside ceramics and porcelain.
Frescoed ceilings, fabrics, antique furnishings and other details reward a slower look between galleries. Some displays include objects such as silver and porcelain. Room descriptions provide information on important pieces, including English text in many cases. Renovation work has affected some areas at times, so the rooms open during your visit may differ.
Planning your visit
The entrance is not immediately obvious among the narrow streets and palaces of the old centre. From Piazza di Pellicceria, continue into the small street and turn right to reach it. Inside, the route through the rooms is clearly indicated, which helps you follow the visit without doubling back.
The ticket is valid for Palazzo Reale as well, so you can combine the two residences in one museum outing. Entry is free on the first Sunday of the month. The gallery is closed on Mondays and Sundays; on Tuesdays it opens in the afternoon, while Wednesday through Saturday it opens in the morning. Check the official website for current admission and access information before your visit.
FAQ
Where is Palazzo Spinola National Gallery?
It is at Piazza di Pellicceria 1 in Genoa’s historic centre. The entrance is along a small street; turn right as you follow it from the piazza.
Does the ticket include Palazzo Reale?
Yes. The Palazzo Spinola ticket is also valid at Palazzo Reale.
Is entry free on any day?
Entry is free on the first Sunday of the month.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours to follow the route through the palace rooms and view the collection.
