Palazzo Steri
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Historic Significance of Palazzo Steri
Palazzo Steri, originally built in 1307, served as the residence of Sicilian lord Manfredi III Chiaramonte before becoming a site for the Inquisition.
The palace features a painted wooden ceiling in the Sala Magna and retains vestiges from its history as a jail for 'heretics' with a collection of graffiti from former inmates.
Fascinating Features
- 🖊️ Graffiti: Religious and profane artwork adorns the cells.
- 🎨 Artist Works: Includes Renato Guttuso's paintings, depicting historical events and figures.
- 🏛️ Architecture: The facade displays grooves from iron cages, emphasizing its historical use for punishment.
Access to the museum is via a one-hour guided tour available in English and Italian, making it an educational stop for tourists, families, and historians alike.
Interesting Facts about Natural History Museum Palazzo Steri
Graffiti Significance
Graffiti found in the prison cells reveals the emotional state and thoughts of the inmates during their captivity.
Restoration Discovery
During restoration, grooves from iron cages used for displaying severed heads were uncovered on the facade.
Art by Guttuso
Renowned artist Renato Guttuso's works include a graphic piece on the murder of an inquisitor and the vibrant Vucciria market.
Location
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Address
View mapUniversita' degli Studi di Palermo (Piazza Marina
Opening Hours
Friday:
10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Monday:
10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Saturday:
10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Sunday:
10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Thursday:
10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Tuesday:
10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Wednesday:
10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Contact Information
Price
€4. Guided tours required; museum entry alone may cost €4.
Average Visit Duration
Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10:00 AM–12:00 PM) are best for fewer crowds.