Pinacoteca Comunale, Assisi
Gallery and Palace in Assisi
Tucked away on Via San Francesco, the Pinacoteca Comunale offers an intimate journey through Assisi's artistic evolution. Located within the beautifully frescoed halls of Palazzo Vallemani, this municipal gallery showcases masterpieces from the 14th to 17th centuries, preserving the city's rich creative heritage. The setting itself-an early 17th-century Baroque palace adorned with vault frescoes by Umbrian and Tuscan artists-creates the perfect backdrop for exploring the region's artistic legacy. This spot is one of the best places to see in Assisi, especially for travelers intrigued by the intersection of spirituality and art.
More than just an art gallery, the Pinacoteca Comunale tells the story of Assisi's devotion to beauty and faith through frescoes rescued from churches and civic buildings. From Giotto's influence to Perugino's grace, every room reflects how art once served both divine and communal expression. A highlight of any walking tour of Assisi, it's a quieter alternative to the city's major basilicas-ideal for those seeking to admire Assisi's artistry in a contemplative setting.
History and Significance of Pinacoteca Comunale (Palazzo Vallemani)
The origins of Assisi's Municipal Art Gallery date back to the unification of Italy in 1859, a time when religious institutions were being dissolved and countless works of art risked dispersal. Determined to preserve their heritage, the people of Assisi assembled a civic collection of frescoes, panels, and devotional works that would eventually find a permanent home within Palazzo Vallemani.
Palazzo Vallemani itself is an artwork in its own right-a refined Baroque building featuring frescoed ceilings that depict mythological and allegorical scenes. Built in the early 17th century, it was once the residence of the noble Vallemani family before being repurposed as a cultural institution. Today, the palace houses not only the Pinacoteca Comunale but also the city's Tourist Information Office and temporary exhibitions dedicated to local heritage.
Among its treasures is a remarkable Maestà attributed to Giotto, a piece that marks the transition from medieval formality to humanistic realism. Works by Puccio Capanna, Ottaviano Nelli, Nicolò di Liberatore, and Pietro Perugino add depth to the collection, illustrating the flourishing of Umbrian painting across centuries.
Things to See and Do in Pinacoteca Comunale (Palazzo Vallemani)
Inside the Pinacoteca Comunale, visitors are greeted by a series of frescoes rescued from Assisi's churches and convents, many damaged during earthquakes or renovations. These include poignant fragments from the city's medieval past, displayed alongside wood and canvas paintings that trace the evolution of religious art through the Renaissance.
The gallery's highlight is undoubtedly the Maestà, attributed to Giotto or one of his followers, which captures the tender humanity that revolutionized Italian painting. Visitors will also find striking works by Perugino, whose delicate brushwork embodies the calm grace of Umbrian art, and pieces by Nicolò di Liberatore, known as l'Alunno, celebrated for his expressive religious compositions. For art lovers, this is one of the top attractions in Assisi, offering a quieter, more reflective experience than the city's grander landmarks.
The palace’s frescoed rooms are worth admiring in their own right-particularly the vaulted ceilings, alive with vivid scenes painted by anonymous Umbrian and Tuscan masters. Temporary exhibitions often complement the permanent collection, focusing on local artists and cultural themes that tie Assisi’s past to its creative present.
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 Pinacoteca Comunale is conveniently located near the route leading to the Basilica of Saint Francis. Visitors arriving by train can alight at Assisi railway station and take a short taxi ride or bus to the city center. For those driving, parking is available at Piazza Giovanni Paolo II or Porta Nuova Car Park, both within a 10-15 minute walk. Once in the old town, follow signs for Via San Francesco-the gallery is located just a few steps from the main thoroughfare connecting Piazza del Comune to the basilica.
Practical Tips on Visiting Pinacoteca Comunale (Palazzo Vallemani)
- Best time to visit Pinacoteca Comunale (Palazzo Vallemani): Late morning or early afternoon for a calm visit after exploring the Basilica of Saint Francis.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Around 6 EUR (subject to change).
- Opening hours: Typically 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; closed Mondays.
- Official website: www.comune.assisi.pg.it
- How long to spend: About 45-60 minutes.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible; elevator and ramps available.
- Facilities: Restrooms, ticket office, and gift shop on-site.
- Photography tip: Focus on the interplay between the frescoed ceilings and the art below for dramatic compositions.
- Guided tours: Occasionally available; inquire at the Tourist Office in the same building.
- Nearby food options: Cafés and trattorias along Via San Francesco, such as Trattoria degli Umbri and Ristorante Metastasio.
Is Pinacoteca Comunale (Palazzo Vallemani) Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. The Pinacoteca Comunale is one of the things to do in Assisi for those who wish to go beyond its famous basilicas and delve into its artistic soul. Its combination of intimate atmosphere, exquisite frescoes, and masterpieces by Giotto's circle and Perugino make it a cultural treasure. The setting in Palazzo Vallemani adds elegance and charm, creating an experience that's as much about the building as the art it houses.
Nearby Attractions to Pinacoteca Comunale (Palazzo Vallemani)
- Basilica of Saint Francis - Assisi's most iconic monument, home to Giotto's frescoes.
- Piazza del Comune - The lively medieval square at the city's center.
- Temple of Minerva - A beautifully preserved Roman temple turned Baroque church.
- Basilica di Santa Chiara - Dedicated to Saint Clare, offering panoramic views of the valley.
- Rocca Maggiore - A medieval fortress with sweeping views of Assisi and the Umbrian countryside.
What Other Travellers Say...
Pinacoteca Comunale Palazzo Vallemani on Via S. Francesco in Assisi houses a compact, well-documented collection of frescoes and other artworks removed from nearby churches, monasteries and castles, with a small library of old books; visitors describe a gentle, surprisingly beautiful exhibition best seen in 30–60 minutes, though some note humid conditions and compact or small explanatory panels, and many recommend it as good value, sometimes combined with other local sites.
The Pinacoteca Comunale appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Assisi!
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
From November to February: Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10.00am - 5.00pm (last entry 4.30pm)
March: 10.00am - 5.00pm (last entry 4.30pm) - closed on Tuesdays
From April to October: 10.00am - 6.00pm (last entry 5.30pm) - closed on Tuesdays
December 25: closed
€3.00 (Cumulative rate for the Pinacoteca, Roman Forum, Rocca Maggiore (including audio guide of the whole city): full price €10.00)
Nearby Attractions
- Palazzo Bernabei (0.1) km
Museum and Palace - Abbey of San Pietro (0.2) km
Abbey - Bosco di San Francesco (0.2) km
Woods - Piazza Inferiore di San Francesco (0.3) km
Square - Teatro Metastasio in Assisi (0.3) km
Theatre - Basilica di San Francesco d'Assisi (0.4) km
Basilica - Roman Forum and Archaeological Museum (0.5) km
Roman Site - Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo (0.5) km
Palace - Temple of Minerva (0.5) km
Roman Site - Piazza del Comune (0.5) km
Square
