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Museum · Palermo, Sicília
Palazzo Abatellis
15th‑century Catalan‑Gothic palace that houses the Galleria Regionale della Sicilia, including the Triumph of Death fresco and Antonello da Messina's Virgin Annunciate.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Palazzo Abatellis
The Palazzo Abatellis was built at the end of the 15th century by Matteo Carnilivari for Francesco Abatellis, master portulano of the kingdom, and blends Catalan Gothic with Renaissance elements. It is in the Kalsa, the old neighbourhood near the sea, and today houses the Galleria Regionale della Sicilia.
The collection brings together Sicilian art from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. The most famous work is the large 15th‑century Triumph of Death fresco, in which death on horseback strikes nobles and religious figures. Also here are Antonello da Messina's Virgin Annunciate, small and well known, and the bust of Eleonora of Aragon by Francesco Laurana.
The museum layout was designed by architect Carlo Scarpa in the 1950s and is still studied today for how light, mounts and walls enhance each work. Nearby are the Palazzo Chiaramonte‑Steri, the Piazza Marina and the garden of Villa Garibaldi.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Between 1.5 and 2 hours.
Best time
On a weekday, in the morning or early afternoon. It's a good plan for the hottest hours of summer.
How to get there
It is on Via Alloro in the Kalsa district, about a 10‑minute walk from the Quattro Canti and 5 minutes from the Piazza Marina.
Tip
Check the weekly closing day and opening hours, which vary by season. Go straight to the Triumph of Death room if you have little time.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Palazzo Abatellis
What is the most famous work in Palazzo Abatellis?
The fresco The Triumph of Death, from the 15th century, and the Virgin Annunciate by Antonello da Messina.
How long does the visit take?
About 1.5 to 2 hours to view the collection at a relaxed pace.
What is near the museum?
Piazza Marina, with the Villa Garibaldi garden and a huge fig tree, the Palazzo Chiaramonte-Steri and the Foro Italico waterfront.