Palazzo Abatellis

In the heart of Palermo, Sicily, nestled along the historic Via Alloro in the Kalsa district, stands the magnificent Palazzo Abatellis. This ancient noble palace, a stunning example of Gothic-Catalan architecture, has been a silent witness to centuries of Sicilian history and culture. Today, it houses the Galleria Regionale della Sicilia, a treasure trove of medieval and Renaissance art that beckons visitors from around the world.

The History of Palazzo Abatellis

Palazzo Abatellis was constructed in 1495 by Matteo Carnilivari, a prominent architect of his time, who was also working on the nearby Palazzo Ajutamicristo. The palace was commissioned by Francesco Abatellis, also known as Patella or Albatelli, who served as the Master Portolano of the Kingdom under King Ferdinand II of Aragon. Abatellis, originally from Lucca, had amassed considerable wealth in Spain and decided to establish his residence in Palermo, close to the convent of Santa Maria degli Angeli, known as La Gancia.

Francesco Abatellis, having no heirs from his two marriages, decreed that upon his and his second wife's death, the palace should be converted into a monastery for women, dedicated to Santa Maria della Pietà and following the Benedictine rule. However, this plan was partially altered, and in 1526, Dominican nuns from the monastery of Santa Caterina moved into the palace. Significant modifications were made to suit monastic life, including the construction of cells, corridors, and a chapel, which later became the church of Santa Maria della Pietà.

Architectural Splendor

The Palazzo Abatellis is a rectangular building with an internal courtyard, constructed using finely cut stones. It features an angular tower and is spread over two levels, connected by two open staircases and a magnificent loggia with arches. The entrance portal, though majestic and linear, is framed by stone and topped with the family crests of the Patella-Abatellis lineage. The noble floor is adorned with elegant trifore windows, adding to the building's Gothic charm.

Despite the ravages of time, including partial destruction during a World War II bombing, the palace has retained much of its original late-medieval character. Its preservation allows visitors to appreciate its architectural beauty and historical significance fully.

The Galleria Regionale della Sicilia

After World War II, the decision was made to restore Palazzo Abatellis and transform it into an art gallery dedicated to medieval and Renaissance collections. The restoration, led by architects Mario Guiotto and Armando Dillon, involved removing later additions and reconstructing the portico, loggia, and central hall. The renowned architect Carlo Scarpa was later invited to curate the gallery's setup, which opened to the public on June 23, 1954. In 1977, the gallery's management was transferred to the Sicilian Region, making it a regional gallery.

Exploring the Exhibitions

The Galleria Regionale della Sicilia is a haven for art enthusiasts. The ground floor houses an impressive collection of wooden carvings from the 12th century and sculptures from the 14th and 15th centuries, including works by Antonello Gagini and Domenico Gagini. Notable pieces include the Annunciation and Portrait of a Young Man by Antonello Gagini, the Madonna del Latte by Domenico Gagini, and the Bust of a Noblewoman by Francesco Laurana, often identified as Eleonora of Aragon.

One of the gallery's most striking exhibits is the Triumph of Death, a grand fresco dating back to around 1445. This haunting artwork depicts Death, riding a skeletal horse, wreaking havoc among the living, sparing only the destitute who plead for its touch. The fresco's dramatic imagery and powerful symbolism leave a lasting impression on all who behold it.

Masterpieces of the Renaissance

The first floor is home to some of the gallery's most prized possessions, including the Annunziata by Antonello da Messina, a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance art. This painting captures the Virgin Mary at the moment of the Annunciation, her serene expression and delicate features rendered with exquisite precision. The gallery also houses other works by Antonello, including panels depicting three Doctors of the Church.

Other notable works on this floor include the Last Supper by Jaume Serra, the Coronation of the Virgin by Riccardo Quartararo, and various 16th-century paintings by Antonello Crescenzio. The Flemish Room, or Sala XIII, showcases a remarkable collection of Flemish paintings, including the Malvagna Triptych by Jan Gossaert and the Deposition by Jan Provost.

New Additions and Contemporary Works

Recent renovations have added new wings to the gallery, including the green and red rooms on the upper floors. These spaces feature significant collections of late Mannerist and 17th-century Sicilian paintings, as well as works reflecting the Counter-Reformation's influence. Highlights include Saint Francis and The Ecstasy of Saint Catherine by Filippo Paladini.

In conclusion, a visit to Palazzo Abatellis is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into Palermo's rich artistic heritage and the architectural brilliance of the late medieval period. Whether you are an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, this remarkable palace and its treasures are sure to captivate and inspire.