Palazzo dei Priori, Assisi

Palace in Assisi

Public Domain / Carlo Raso

Standing proudly on Assisi's main square, the Palazzo dei Priori has long symbolized the city's civic life and governance. Originally established as a magistracy in 1320, this impressive structure tells the story of Assisi's evolution from a medieval commune to a modern Italian municipality. With its sweeping vaults, frescoed halls, and architectural grandeur, it remains one of the must-see places in Assisi for those intrigued by history, art, and politics.

Today, the Palazzo dei Priori continues to function as a seat of local administration, but beyond its offices lies a treasure trove of civic artistry. Its walls echo the aspirations and ideals of the town's past leaders, immortalized through frescoes, heraldic emblems, and sculptural details. As you explore its elegant halls, you'll find that it's not just an administrative building but also a living museum of Assisi's civic identity - a highlight of any walking tour of Assisi.

History and Significance of Palazzo dei Priori
Things to See and Do in Palazzo dei Priori
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Palazzo dei Priori
Is Palazzo dei Priori Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions to Palazzo dei Priori

History and Significance of Palazzo dei Priori

The Palazzo dei Priori’s history began in 1320 when it was first documented as the residence of Assisi’s magistrates. In 1337, the priors purchased property from the Florentine Bardi banking family, building a new structure that extended across the road toward the Moiano gate. This ambitious project included a striking vaulted passage over the adjoining Palazzo del Popolo, exemplifying the city’s confidence and expanding administrative power.

During the papacy of Sixtus IV Della Rovere (1471-1484), the building underwent significant reconstruction, marking a period of renewal in both design and purpose. The Palazzo’s underground level once sat at the Roman pavement height, while the ground floor loggia hosted the Monte di Pietà - a charitable pawn institution established in 1468. The upper floors housed the Priors themselves, adorned with plaques and coats of arms that celebrated papal alliances and civic achievements.

After Assisi joined the Savoy Kingdom in 1860, the palace was extensively restored. The main entrance hall was embellished with frescoes by Alessandro Venanzi in 1870, depicting Assisi's villas, castles, and noble families, reaffirming local pride in the new era of Italian unity. Later, between 1906 and 1910, Mayor Pietro Uber commissioned further decorations in the Council Hall from architect and painter Carlo Gino Venanzi, who added allegorical frescoes celebrating learning, charity, work, and justice.

Things to See and Do in Palazzo dei Priori

Visitors can admire the architectural and artistic richness of the Palazzo dei Priori, which embodies centuries of civic pride. The grand entrance hall, with its intricate vaults and Venanzi's 19th-century frescoes, sets the tone. Upstairs, the Council Hall offers a stunning example of early 20th-century municipal art - its wooden furnishings, frescoed ceiling, and symbolic imagery creating a visual narrative of Assisi's enduring values.

Take time to appreciate the heraldic symbols throughout the palace, each representing popes, cardinals, and governors connected to the city's history. The coats of arms of Pope Paul III Farnese and his contemporaries remain among the building's most striking details. For visitors fascinated by history and politics, exploring the Palazzo is one of the best things to do in Assisi - a window into how religion, art, and governance intertwined across the centuries.

How to Get There

The nearest major airport is Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi Airport, located about 20 minutes from Assisi. From the airport, travellers can reach the town by taxi, rental car, or pre-booked shuttle transfer. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Assisi on Booking.com.

The Palazzo dei Priori stands in Piazza del Comune, in the very heart of Assisi's old town. It is easily reached on foot from most major landmarks, including the Temple of Minerva and the Basilica of Santa Chiara. Visitors arriving by train can travel to Assisi railway station, located about 3 kilometers away, and continue by taxi or local bus. Drivers can park at Piazza Giovanni Paolo II or Porta Nuova Car Park, both offering easy access to the historic center and a pleasant uphill walk to Piazza del Comune.

Practical Tips on Visiting Palazzo dei Priori

Best time to visit Palazzo dei Priori: Mid-morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and good natural light for interior frescoes.
Entrance fee in Euros: Usually free; may vary during exhibitions.
Opening hours: Typically 9 AM-6 PM, but hours can change depending on municipal use.
Official website: www.comune.assisi.pg.it
How long to spend: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Accessibility: The upper floors may not be fully accessible; inquire at the entrance.
Facilities: Public restrooms nearby; guided group access may require advance booking.
Photography tip: Capture the façade and the adjoining Piazza del Comune for a perfect composition combining civic and medieval architecture.
Guided tours: Available through the Assisi tourist office; often combined with nearby landmarks.
Nearby food options: Cafés and trattorias around Piazza del Comune offer Umbrian specialties and outdoor seating with views of the square.

Is Palazzo dei Priori Worth Visiting?

Definitely. The Palazzo dei Priori is one of the top sights in Assisi for those wanting to understand the city's civic and cultural evolution. Its combination of medieval structure, Renaissance restoration, and later frescoes tells a story of continuity and pride that mirrors Assisi's own identity. More than just a government building, it's a piece of living history that connects the town's medieval past with its modern role.

Nearby Attractions to Palazzo dei Priori

Temple of Minerva - A beautifully preserved Roman temple that dominates Piazza del Comune.
Roman Forum and Archaeological Museum - Explore the remains of ancient Assisi beneath the square.
Basilica of Saint Francis - The spiritual heart of Assisi, home to Giotto's frescoes and the saint's tomb.
Basilica of Santa Chiara - Dedicated to Saint Clare, with panoramic views over the valley.
Rocca Maggiore - A hilltop fortress offering spectacular vistas and insight into Assisi's medieval defenses.

The Palazzo dei Priori appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Assisi!

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