Bellomo Palace Regional Gallery, Syracuse

The Bellomo Palace Regional Gallery is a museum housed in the historic Bellomo Palace. The origins of this palace can be traced back to the 12th century, during the period of Hohenstaufen rule in Sicily. One of the most remarkable aspects of this palace is the exceptionally well-preserved architectural elements from its early history.

The palace still retains its 12th-century appearance on the main facade, as well as in the basement and ground floor. These architectural features provide a unique glimpse into the medieval history of the building. Subsequent modifications were made in the 14th and 15th centuries, with the latter period being particularly influential.

During the 15th century, the palace was under the ownership of the Bellomo family, from which it derives its name. This period of ownership left a lasting impact on the building's architecture, as seen in the portals, mullioned windows, and the staircase, which display influences from the Catalan Gothic style—a popular architectural style in Sicily due to its ties with the Crown of Aragon.

In the 18th century, the palace and the adjacent Parisio Palace came under the ownership of a Benedictine monastery, which merged the two buildings into one. Later, in 1866, the palace was expropriated by the Italian state and subsequently transformed into a museum, a role it has fulfilled since 1940. A significant renovation of the palace took place between 2004 and 2009, ensuring its continued preservation and function as a museum.

The Bellomo Palace Regional Gallery features a diverse collection of Sicilian art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. This collection spans several centuries and showcases the artistic heritage of Syracuse and the surrounding region. One of the most notable pieces in the museum's collection is an Annunciation by Antonello da Messina, even though it is somewhat damaged.