Palazzo Barracco

In the heart of Crotone, a city rich with history and culture on the Ionian coast of Calabria, stands the Palazzo Barracco, an 18th-century architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the region's aristocratic past. Built in 1738, this stately palace is perched on the Piazza Castello, providing a commanding view over the city center, the sparkling sea, the surrounding countryside, and the distant mountains. The Palazzo Barracco is a testament to the grandeur of a bygone era and remains a significant cultural landmark in modern-day Crotone.

The Barracco Family Legacy

The story of Palazzo Barracco is intertwined with the history of the illustrious Barracco family. The family’s presence in Crotone dates back to the late 18th century. Baron Alfonso Barracco senior, a prominent figure of his time, was known for his agricultural endeavors and business acumen. On January 23, 1800, he signed a significant agreement with the De Riso brothers and the Bianco family from Catanzaro, committing to deliver 1700 tomoli of grain from the 1799 harvest. This grain was to be supplied by Antonio Casaburi, a royal auditor and political-military assessor who managed Alfonso’s estates on behalf of the royal tax authorities. The palazzo eventually passed to Alfonso’s son, Luigi Barracco, who played a pivotal role in its history.

Luigi Barracco, the son of Alfonso senior and Emanuela Vercillo, married the noblewoman Maria Chiara Lucifero from Crotone. In 1828, Luigi signed a contract to exchange a house in the parish of San Salvatore, which was notarized in 1839, to renovate and expand the palazzo. Despite the devastation caused by the earthquake on March 8, 1832, Luigi pursued his ambitious project. A royal decree on March 12, 1833, ordered the demolition of the Church of San Salvatore, despite the vigorous opposition of Bishop Leonardo Todisco Grande. The demolition was carried out on August 8, 1834, paving the way for the palazzo's transformation.

In 1833, Luigi Barracco had the honor of hosting Ferdinand II, the new King of the Two Sicilies, during his visit to the provinces of his realm. This event marked a high point in the palazzo's history. In 1834, Alfonso junior, Luigi’s eldest son, married Emilia Carafa, and the family began their transition to a new residence in Naples on Via Monte di Dio. This move was further solidified when Stanislao Barracco, Alfonso junior's brother, was elected as a deputy for the Cotrone district in the Neapolitan Parliament in 1848. Following the unification of Italy, Baron Alfonso Barracco junior contributed 10,000 ducats to Garibaldi’s cause, and the family relocated to Rome. Meanwhile, the grand palazzo in Crotone slowly fell into disrepair as its owners visited less frequently.

The Palazzo in Modern Times

After the plebiscite of October 21, 1860, which sealed Italy's unification, Baron Giovanni Barracco was elected to represent the Crotone constituency. He was re-elected in 1874 and 1880, often facing the democratic Gaetano Cosentini, who defeated him in 1867, 1870, and 1876 but ultimately won in 1880 after a fierce battle against Raffaele Lucente. From 1919, the palazzo was home to Baron Enrico Barracco, son and heir of Alfonso junior, who married Maria Doria. The palazzo also housed the heirs of Roberto Barracco, ensuring the family's legacy continued within its walls.

In 1995, the palazzo found a new purpose as the headquarters for the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Handicrafts, and Agriculture of Crotone, until 2009. Today, it serves as the home of the Museo dell'Arte Contemporanea di Crotone (MACK), a vibrant contemporary art museum that breathes new life into the historic building. The museum showcases a dynamic collection of modern art, bridging the gap between Crotone's rich history and its contemporary cultural scene.

Exploring Palazzo Barracco

A visit to Palazzo Barracco is a journey through time, offering a unique blend of historical and modern experiences. As you step through its grand entrance, you are transported to an era of aristocratic splendor. The palazzo's architecture, with its elegant façade and green shutters, reflects the grandeur of the 18th century. Inside, the museum's contemporary art exhibitions provide a striking contrast to the building's historic ambiance, creating a captivating dialogue between past and present.

From the palazzo's elevated position, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Crotone, the shimmering Ionian Sea, and the picturesque Calabrian landscape. The panoramic vistas from the Piazza Castello are particularly stunning at sunset, offering a memorable backdrop for your visit.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, Palazzo Barracco offers a rich and rewarding experience. Its storied past, architectural beauty, and vibrant cultural offerings make it a must-visit destination in Crotone. So, take a step back in time and explore the fascinating world of Palazzo Barracco – a true gem in the heart of Calabria.