Palazzo Palmieri

The late Baroque symbol of the city of Monopoli

In the historic centre of Monopoli, Palazzo Palmieri dominates the square of the same name and is a perfect example of Lecce-inspired late Baroque architecture. The palace remained the property of the Palmieri family until 1921, when, at the behest of the last direct heir, it passed into the hands of the “Congregazione di Carità”, which used it as a State Art Institute until 1990. 

The interior includes over a hundred rooms, many of them featuring frescoes. The most important room is the gallery overlooking the outside loggia, displaying art collections and ancient artefacts. Next to it, there is a small private chapel with an ogival arch.

The palace is one of many buildings of architectural and cultural interest in the small Apulian town. While in Monopoli, don’t miss Porto Vecchio, a picturesque place dominated by white and blue, where fishermen’s boats are moored. We also recommend visiting the Castle of Charles V, dating to the period of Spanish rule: it faces directly onto the sea and has a pentagonal layout, typical of 16th century forts.