The gallery is situated inside the Palazzo dei Priori, which served as the seat of the priors of Perugia during the medieval period.
The collection includes the 'Madonna and Child' by Duccio di Buoninsegna, a foundational work for the Sienese school.
It holds the 'Polittico di Sant'Antonio' by Piero della Francesca, one of the few works by the artist to remain in an Umbrian public collection.
The museum contains an extensive collection of 15th-century wood sculpture, including works by Agostino di Duccio.
Many pieces in the collection were acquired following the suppression of religious orders in the 19th century.
The palace architecture features the 'Sala dei Notari', renowned for its 13th-century vaulted ceiling frescoes.
The Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria is housed within the Palazzo dei Priori, a 13th-century Gothic building in the historic center of Perugia. It holds the most comprehensive collection of paintings from the Umbrian school, covering the 13th to the 19th centuries. Visitors traverse an original medieval palace structure, featuring frescoed chambers and ceremonial halls that integrate the architecture with the art display. Key highlights include works by Duccio di Buoninsegna, Gentile da Fabriano, and Fra Angelico. The collection documents the evolution of religious art, particularly the transition from Byzantine influence to the Italian Renaissance. The museum also preserves significant wood carvings and illuminated manuscripts. It serves as the primary repository for regional heritage salvaged from destroyed or suppressed churches.
The view from the palace windows looking out over the historic rooftops of Perugia.
Check the museum's official website for temporary exhibitions that may affect access to certain galleries.
Allocate extra time to explore the upper floors of the Palazzo dei Priori, as they offer unique architectural perspectives.
Use the museum's provided digital guides to better understand the provenance of the religious altar panels.
Do not rush through the smaller rooms; the most significant historical context is found in the transition between the later medieval and early Renaissance sections.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet tone; large bags and backpacks must be left in the provided lockers.
