Palazzo dei Priori, Gubbio
Palace in Gubbio
Rising on the eastern side of Piazza della Signoria, the Palazzo dei Priori - also known as Palazzo Pretorio or del Podestà - is one of the top attractions in Gubbio and often visited on walking tours of Gubbio. Though unfinished, its massive Gothic form stands in striking dialogue with the Palazzo dei Consoli opposite, symbolising the balance between executive and legislative power in medieval Gubbio.
The palace's dramatic, incomplete façade and its unique structural design make it one of the must-see places in Gubbio for those fascinated by medieval architecture. Its vast interiors, later additions, and post-earthquake restorations reveal centuries of adaptation layered onto a bold 14th-century vision.
Table of Contents
- History and Significance of Palazzo dei Priori
- Things to See and Do in Palazzo dei Priori
- How to Get to Palazzo dei Priori
- Practical Tips on Visiting Palazzo dei Priori
- Where to Stay close to Palazzo dei Priori
- Is Palazzo dei Priori Worth Visiting?
- FAQs for Visiting Palazzo dei Priori
- Nearby Attractions to Palazzo dei Priori
History and Significance of Palazzo dei Priori
Construction of the Palazzo dei Priori began in 1349 under the likely direction of Matteo di Giovannello, known as Gattapone, the mastermind behind several of Gubbio's major civic projects. Intended as the seat of the Podestà - the executive authority - it was conceived as a counterpart to the Palazzo dei Consoli, the centre of legislative power. Together, the two were meant to frame a newly organised civic landscape in Piazza della Signoria.
Despite its ambitious design, construction halted abruptly in 1350 due to economic strain and the devastating spread of the plague. The result is an arresting façade, truncated mid-project, that showcases the height of Gothic civic architecture while also bearing traces of sudden abandonment. The building’s structural innovation is remarkable: a single massive pillar supports the interior vaulting, with strong arches transferring weight to the outer perimeter walls.
Over the centuries, the palace experienced transformations, including a brick addition in the late 1600s and the construction of a connecting external staircase in 1949. After the 1997 earthquake, the entire complex underwent extensive restoration and consolidation, completed in 2003, ensuring the building’s continued role as the seat of the municipality.
Things to See and Do in Palazzo dei Priori
Inside the Mayor’s Hall, visitors can admire two 17th-century canvases by Francesco Allegrini, part of his renowned cycle of battle scenes. These dynamic works capture the dramatic energy typical of Baroque military painting and bring a vibrant artistic contrast to the palace’s austere medieval walls.
The palace is also home to Gubbio's extensive civic library, founded in 1666 by Bishop Alessandro Sperelli. Its shelves hold rare manuscripts and noteworthy codices, including Greffolino's History of Gubbio. For those passionate about archival research, the Armanni archive is a treasure trove of documentation illuminating centuries of local life and governance.
Walking through the building offers insight into how medieval architecture evolves across time, as later modifications blend with original Gothic structures. Even from the outside, the unfinished façade tells a compelling story of ambition, adversity, and endurance.
How to Get to Palazzo dei Priori
The nearest airports to Gubbio are Perugia “San Francesco” Airport (PEG) and Ancona Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Gubbio on Booking.com. Travellers can reach Gubbio using regional train services to Fossato di Vico, followed by buses into the centre. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy. From Piazza 40 Martiri, a short uphill walk leads through the medieval streets to Piazza della Signoria, where the palace stands opposite the Palazzo dei Consoli. Visitors arriving by car can park near Piazza 40 Martiri and continue on foot to the historic centre. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Practical Tips on Visiting Palazzo dei Priori
- Suggested tips: Visit both the Palazzo dei Priori and the Palazzo dei Consoli together to understand their civic relationship.
- Best time to visit: Mid-morning or late afternoon for quieter interior exploration.
- Entrance fee: Usually free, depending on exhibitions or events.
- Entrance fee:
- Opening hours:
- Accessibility: Interior access may be limited by stairs; some areas are not fully accessible.
- Facilities: Library, archives, exhibition spaces, and municipal offices.
- Photography tip: Capture the façade from the square to emphasise its unfinished Gothic structure.
- Guided tours: Occasional guided visits offered during heritage events.
- Nearby food options: Cafés and trattorie are located throughout the streets surrounding Piazza della Signoria.
Where to Stay close to Palazzo dei Priori
To stay near this historic civic complex, consider Hotel Bosone Palace, offering elegant rooms within walking distance of Piazza della Signoria. For a more intimate stay, Hotel Gattapone provides traditional charm just steps from the Palazzo dei Consoli. Another excellent option is Park Hotel Ai Cappuccini, which offers luxury and tranquillity a short distance from the historic centre.
Is Palazzo dei Priori Worth Visiting?
Yes - the Palazzo dei Priori is a fascinating window into Gubbio's medieval past and its evolution through the centuries. Its impressive unfinished façade and unique interior structure make it a compelling stop for anyone interested in architecture or civic history. Exploring the palace alongside the Palazzo dei Consoli offers a fuller understanding of Gubbio's medieval political landscape.
What Other Travellers Say...
Palazzo dei Priori sits on Perugia's main square at Piazza IV Novembre and houses the National Gallery inside a medieval building; visitors praise its fresco‑decorated main hall, stone‑carved entrance and grand stairs, and note the bell tower's sweeping views and proximity to an attractive fountain and other sights, while the main hall is often open for concerts and events.
FAQs for Visiting Palazzo dei Priori
Can I see the Allegrini paintings?
Yes, they are displayed in the Mayor’s Hall when open to the public.
Is the library accessible to visitors?
Access for research may be granted upon request.
Is the building accessible for those with mobility issues?
Some areas may be difficult due to stairs and uneven floors.
Is photography allowed inside?
Typically yes, but avoid flash in archive and manuscript areas.
Nearby Attractions to Palazzo dei Priori
- Palazzo dei Consoli - The monumental Gothic civic palace opposite the piazza.
- Piazza Grande - Gubbio's dramatic hanging square with panoramic views.
- Gubbio Cathedral - A serene medieval church above the piazza.
- Museo Civico - Housed in Palazzo dei Consoli with archaeology and art collections.
- Via dei Consoli - A lively medieval street lined with shops and cafés.
The Palazzo dei Priori appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gubbio!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Piazza Grande (0.0) km
Square - Palazzo dei Consoli (0.1) km
Palace - Museo Diocesano (0.1) km
Museum - Gubbio Cathedral (0.1) km
Cathedral - Palazzo Ducale (0.1) km
Museum and Palace - San Francesco della Pace (0.1) km
Church - Logge dei Tiratori (0.2) km
Historic Building - Fontana del Bargello (0.2) km
Fountain - Gubbio Funivia (0.5) km
Cable Car - Teatro Romano (0.6) km
Amphitheatre
