Palazzo dei Priori: the Gothic civic heart of Perugia
Between Piazza IV Novembre and Corso Vannucci stands the Palazzo dei Priori, one of the finest examples of civic Gothic architecture in Italy. Built between 1293 and 1443, it was the center of political and social life for centuries. To complete your visit, descend to the Rocca Paolina and see the underground side of the city.
Architecture that tells a story
The building is the result of a long, layered construction process. It stretches along Corso Vannucci to Via Boncambi, integrating older structures. The main façade facing Piazza IV Novembre has a Gothic portal with trilobed arch, flanked by mullioned windows and crowned by bronze copies of the Griffin (symbol of Perugia) and the Guelph Lion.
Sala dei Notari and guilds
Inside is the Sala dei Notari, a large vaulted hall decorated with frescoes of biblical and allegorical scenes. It hosted public assemblies and meetings of the Priors. The palace also housed the Collegio del Cambio and Collegio della Mercanzia, key medieval guilds. The Collegio del Cambio’s Sala delle Udienze, frescoed by Perugino (1498–1500), is a Renaissance masterpiece.
The National Gallery of Umbria
Since 1879, the third floor has hosted the National Gallery of Umbria, one of Italy’s top medieval and Renaissance collections, with works by Duccio, Beato Angelico, Piero della Francesca and Perugino.
A symbol of the city
Today the Palazzo still houses the municipality and cultural events. For a broader historical context related to papal power, see the fall of Rocca Paolina.
Curiosities
The name comes from the Priors of the Arts, representatives of the guilds. The façade is irregular due to different construction phases. The fan‑shaped staircase to the main portal was added in 1902, replacing an earlier double staircase.
Visiting the palace
Address: Piazza IV Novembre, 1, 06123 Perugia Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 8:30–19:30; Monday 12:00–19:30 Tickets: Municipal areas are free; the National Gallery requires a ticket
Where to stay
📍 WellStay Perugia Downtown: steps from the palace, ideal for art and history lovers. 📍 WellStay Perugia Train Station: convenient for train arrivals, and a good starting point for a walk through Perugia’s winding streets.
Palazzo dei Priori is not just a historic building, but a living symbol of Perugia’s civic identity.