National Gallery of Umbria, Perugia (must see)

The National Gallery of Umbria is one of Italy’s premier art collections, showcasing masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, with a strong focus on the Umbrian School of Painting. It is housed on the upper floors of the Priori Palace (Palazzo dei Priori), a striking example of Gothic civil architecture that has served as Perugia’s municipal seat since medieval times. The museum spans 4,000 square meters across two floors, with 40 exhibition rooms dedicated to the permanent collection and additional space for rotating temporary exhibitions.

The origins of the collection date back to the mid-16th century, with the foundation of the Perugian Academy of Drawing (Accademia del Disegno), initially housed at the Olivetan Convent in Montemorcino. Over the centuries, political upheavals, including the Napoleonic suppression of religious houses and the later unification of Italy, brought many artworks into state ownership. By 1863, the collection was formally named after Pietro Vannucci, better known as Perugino, but only found a permanent home in the Palazzo dei Priori in 1878. Renamed the National Gallery of Umbria in 1918, it underwent its most recent renovation in 2006, creating a modern visitor experience.

The gallery’s collection is arranged chronologically and highlights key figures of Italian art. Particular emphasis is placed on Umbrian masters such as Benedetto Bonfigli, Fiorenzo di Lorenzo, Perugino, Pintoricchio, and their followers, providing a deep dive into the regional artistic heritage.

The National Gallery of Umbria remains a cultural treasure, blending Perugia’s historical legacy with its extraordinary artistic heritage, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history lovers alike.