Sarcinelli palace

Nestled in the heart of Conegliano's historic center, Sarcinelli Palace (locally known as Palazzo Sarcinelli) is a stunning Renaissance building that stands as a testament to the rich cultural and historical tapestry of this charming Italian town. Located on Contrada Granda (via XX Settembre), the palace is not only a marvel of architectural beauty but also a vibrant hub for art and cultural events, drawing visitors from all over the world.

The History of Sarcinelli Palace

Sarcinelli Palace's origins date back to 1518 when it was constructed by a branch of the noble Sarcinelli family from Ceneda. The Sarcinelli family, who also had a grand residence in Serravalle, were known for their opulence, and their Conegliano palace was among the most lavish in the historic center. Throughout the centuries, the palace hosted several illustrious guests, including Bona Sforza in 1556, Maximilian III of Austria, and Henry III of France in 1574.

In the 20th century, the palace transitioned into municipal ownership. Since 1988, it has served as the home of the Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art, under the initial guidance of Marco Goldin until 2002. The gallery has showcased works from renowned artists such as Davide Orler, Alberto Giaquinto, and Piero Guccione, to name a few. The palace underwent significant restoration between 2008 and 2009, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Architectural Splendor

Sarcinelli Palace is a classic example of 16th-century Renaissance architecture, featuring an imposing three-level facade. The ground floor boasts a portico with five full-arched openings, supported by pillars adorned with sculptural elements, including heads framed by floral motifs. A rectangular portal flanked by two Corinthian columns and a mezzanine adds to the grandeur.

The noble floor, marked by a string course, features an elegant quadrifora (a four-light window) at the center, framed in stone and supported by three pink marble Ionic columns. This central window is flanked by pairs of single-arched windows, all equipped with balustrades, enhancing the facade's symmetry and elegance. The top floor, an attic, has square openings that maintain the facade's balanced design, crowned by a dentil cornice running the length of the building.

Inside, the palace's rooms are adorned with stucco and bas-reliefs, reflecting the prestige of its historical owners. These artistic elements provide a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Sarcinelli family and the palace's storied past.

Exhibitions and Cultural Events

Sarcinelli Palace has established itself as a premier venue for art exhibitions and cultural events. In recent years, it has hosted several noteworthy exhibitions, attracting art enthusiasts and scholars alike. From February to June 2010, the palace featured Cima da Conegliano: Poet of the Landscape, curated by Giovanni Carlo Federico Villa. This was followed by Bernardo Bellotto: The Canaletto of European Courts from November 2011 to April 2012, curated by Dario Succi.

More recently, the palace has been the site of a series of exhibitions curated by Giandomenico Romanelli. These include A Restless 1500s: From Cima da Conegliano to the Burning of Riccardo Perucolo (March to June 2014), Carpaccio: Vittore and Benedetto from Venice to Istria (March to June 2015), The Vivarini: The Splendor of Painting between Gothic and Renaissance (February to July 2016), and Bellini and the Bellinians: From the Academy of Concords of Rovigo (February to June 2017).

In addition, the palace hosted Teodoro Wolf Ferrari: The Modernity of the Landscape from February to June 2018, and From the Impressionists to Picasso from October 2019 to February 2020, featuring works from the Johannesburg Art Gallery. The most recent exhibitions include Steve McCurry. Icons from October 2021 to March 2022, and Ron Galella: Paparazzo Superstar from October 2022 to March 2023.

Visiting Sarcinelli Palace

For visitors, Sarcinelli Palace offers a unique opportunity to explore a significant piece of Conegliano's heritage. As you step through the grand entrance, you are transported back in time, surrounded by the opulence and elegance of the Renaissance era. The palace's art gallery provides a serene and inspiring environment to appreciate masterpieces from various periods, while the ongoing cultural events ensure there is always something new and exciting to experience.

Whether you are an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, Sarcinelli Palace is a must-visit destination in Conegliano. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene make it a jewel in the crown of this picturesque Italian town.