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Museums

Palazzo Chigi Ariccia

4.6 · 1,992 reviews
Refined and historical.
Palazzo Chigi Ariccia, Piazza di Corte, 14, 00072 Ariccia RM, Italy
Interesting facts
1

Gian Lorenzo Bernini was responsible for the urban planning of the entire Piazza di Corte, integrating the palace with the adjacent Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta.

2

The interior contains an extensive collection of 17th-century paintings, including works by Mattia Preti and Salvator Rosa.

3

The palace library houses thousands of original volumes, including rare editions from the Chigi family archives.

4

The 'Room of the Beautiful Lady' features a series of portraits depicting noblewomen, a common status symbol in Baroque-era aristocratic homes.

5

The property remains largely intact with its original 17th-century interior layout, unlike many Roman palazzi that were subdivided over time.

6

The palace served as the main filming location for the ballroom scenes in Luchino Visconti's 1963 film, The Leopard.

7

The surrounding Parco Chigi is a protected area of holm oak forest, known as a 'natural monument' of the Lazio region.

Overview

Palazzo Chigi Ariccia is a 17th-century Baroque residence designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini for the Chigi family. Located in the Alban Hills, it retains its original furnishings, art collections, and silk tapestries from the period. The palace interior features the Sala Maestra and the Room of the Beautiful Lady, which preserve the aesthetic of an aristocratic Roman household. It served as a set for the film The Leopard by Luchino Visconti. The site also encompasses an extensive private park that connects to the surrounding Chigi woods. Visitors can view the family's collection of Roman paintings, silverware, and decorative arts in situ. The building underwent a significant restoration in the late 20th century to return the residence to its historic layout.

Photo spot

The main staircase and the central landing inside the palace offer the most impressive architectural geometry.

Insider tips

Check the official website for guided tour availability, as some rooms may only be accessible with a staff member.

Visit the park trails behind the palace to see the ancient holm oak forest, which is often less crowded than the main interior.

The town of Ariccia is famous for its 'fraschette' restaurants; consider timing your visit to include a traditional local meal nearby.

What to avoid

Do not overlook the park, as many visitors focus only on the main floor of the palace and miss the historic wooded grounds.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays throughout the year.

Etiquette

Photography without flash is typically permitted; maintain a quiet tone and avoid touching furniture or tapestries.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Spring or autumn for comfortable walking in the outdoor park; weekday afternoons for a quieter museum experience.
Address
Palazzo Chigi Ariccia, Piazza di Corte, 14, 00072 Ariccia RM, Italy
41.721, 12.672
Get directions
Details
Key exhibits17th-century Baroque paintings, original silk tapestries, and period furnishings.
Architectural styleRoman Baroque, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Spring or autumn for comfortable walking in the outdoor park; weekday afternoons for a quieter museum experience..

The main staircase and the central landing inside the palace offer the most impressive architectural geometry.

Close by you'll find Palazzo Pontificio, Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo, Museo delle Navi Romane.