The White Palace (Palazzo Bianco) is one of the main buildings in the center of Genoa. Discover a beautiful landmark that together with the Red Palace (Palazzo Rosso) and Palazzo Doria Tursi, form part of a very important cluster of museums in the city.
This famous palace was built between 1530 and 1540 by Luca Grimaldi, a member of one of the most important Genoese families. In 1658 the palace passed into the possession of the De Franchi family, and in 1711 it was given by Federico De Franchi to Maria Durazzo Brignole-Sale, his main creditor. Between 1716 and 1717 the Palazzo Bianco was restored and earned the name White Palace for the color of its exterior decoration. Visit the palace to learn about Genoan history through different types of elegant artworks, from beautiful paintings to musical instruments of the time.
The Gallery of the White Palace has impressive masterpieces by renowned Italian artists. It also features numerous paintings from other European painters from the 12th to the 17th century. Wander along the elegant corridors to see French, Spanish, Dutch and Flemish works of art. See some of the most important pieces of the palazzo collection, such as Ecce Homo by the Italian master Caravaggio. The scene of the famous painting shows Pontius Pilate displaying Christ to the crowd with the words Ecce homo! (Behold the man).
Enjoy the art of Jusepe de Ribera, a leading painter of the Spanish school, and Peter Paul Rubens, considered the most influential artist of Flemish Baroque tradition. Learn about the activity of the Genoese painters of the 17th and 18th centuries, such as Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, Giovanni Andrea Ansaldo and Bernardo Strozzi.
While you are at the White Palace, make sure you see its interesting display of 18th-century clothing and its small but pretty gardens. Take some photos of the elegant green area and enjoy a rest surrounded by beautiful plants.
Find the Palazzo Bianco in Via Garibaldi, one of the most famous streets in Genoa.
