Palazzo Granafei-Nervegna 

Palace in Brindisi

Palazzo Granafei-Nervegna
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Roberto sernicola

The Granafei-Nervegna Palace, a historic building located on Via Duomo in Brindisi, originally belonged to the Granafei family, who were thought to have fled from Constantinople to Oria following the Turkish conquest. They moved to Brindisi in 1508, encouraged by incentives from Ferdinand of Aragon. In the 18th century, the Granafei family relocated to Mesagne, selling the palace to the Nervegna family.

The Nervegna family, originally from Ortona, established themselves in Brindisi in the early 19th century. Giuseppe Nervegna, a trader dealing in oil, oats, and other food products, managed his business with his cousin Domenico. Both were notable figures, with Giuseppe being involved in local politics and commerce. The family acquired the Granafei palace in 1862, expanding their holdings with farms, olive groves, and vineyards.

Giuseppe Nervegna was an erudite individual, passionate about archaeology and numismatics, and served as a councilor and president of the Terra d’Otranto Chamber of Commerce. He advocated for the development of local trade through the enhancement of port infrastructure and the construction of railways. He also served as the British vice-consul, promoting Brindisi’s port in international trade.

In 1908, the palace and the family’s assets were inherited by Oscar Maria Nervegna, who sold the building in 1921 to Piccolo Credito Cattolico, managed by priest Lorenzo Monaco. The Municipality of Brindisi later acquired the building in 1930, transforming it into the seat of the Court, the Court of Assizes, and the Magistrates’ Court until 1976.

The palace, first documented in 1565, features Renaissance architecture. Its main façade includes Latin aphorisms and various decorations and windows, each uniquely designed. The family’s coat of arms, depicting a rampant lion bearing an ear of wheat, is prominently displayed on the portal. The building underwent several modifications over the centuries, reflecting its changing ownership and functions. Today, it serves as the entrance to the Ribezzo Museum and is an integral part of the city’s historical and cultural heritage.


The Palazzo Granafei-Nervegna  appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Brindisi!

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