places of art
Italy is the home of art and the Sabine does its part. Every small town has something that is linked to this great tradition. Influential figures commissioned works of art, both paintings and sculptures, to affirm their power and, at the same time to "communicate" with the people through the symbolic language of art. Churches, public or private buildings and the squares were the appropriate places to display these works. The Sabine is birthplace to a considerable number of talented artists whose works can be seen in many villages and towns along with works by artists from all over Italy who worked from Rome.
Palazzo Bonaccorsi is a wonderful gift from the past, a mix of history and legend, of memoirs and imagination. It is located in Castel San Pietro, Poggio Mirteto. Built as a fortress on the remains of a Roman villa or temple, it was transformed mainly by the Orsini's, into the Baronial Palace. The main floor which features the Ballroom is entirely frescoed. Many famous personalities visited here, Caravaggio also, or so they say.
The tour
Guided tours only at Palazzo Bonaccorsi.
The tower is particularly striking as remainder of the medieval castle. Each family that owned the palace renovated it to some extent. After accessing the inner courtyard, proceed to the main floor with it's halls and frescoes. The majestic Ballroom is impressive in its elegance.
Visit Palazzo Bonaccorsi
How to get here
Castel San Pietro, PIazza Grande
Tour timetable
every Saturday from 5pm
every Sunday from 11am
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Ticket price
10€/persona
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Contact us
Tel: +39 347 72 79 591
Email: rietidascoprire@vodafone.it
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Curiosities
Sembra che Caravaggio stesso soggiornò più volte nel castello, tanto da rappresentarlo in uno dei suoi quadri. Il pittore era molto amico della famiglia Mattei, che furono padroni del castello nel Cinquecento.
It was built as castle in the middle ages and was transformed into a Palace in the second half of the 16th century, by Cardinal Pier Donato Cesi. This monumental building dominates the town with its imposing facade and Doric columned portico surrounded by a gallery with ionic columns. Giovanni Battista Camuccini, son of the neoclassical painter Vincenzo, bought the palace in 1862 to subsequently convert it into a Museum. This building contained sculptures, Roman inscriptions, paintings and sketches of Vincenzo Camuccini. The rooms were as notable as the art they housed being decorated with fascinating frescoe. There was also an armory and a extraordinary collection of autographs signed by poets, musicians, artists, kings, popes and politicians.
The tour
The Palace is not open to the public. The Camuccini family allow visits only on special occasions.
Rocchettine castle
How to get here
Cantalupo in Sabina, Piazza Camuccini
