Pino Pascali Foundation: Contemporary Art Overlooking the Sea of Polignano

The Pino Pascali Foundation in Polignano a Mare is much more than a museum — it is a vibrant and dynamic cultural institution, a true point of reference for contemporary art in Italy.

Dedicated to one of the leading figures of Arte Povera, the Apulian artist Pino Pascali, the Foundation enjoys a breathtaking location overlooking the Adriatic Sea, where the dialogue between art and landscape creates an even more evocative experience.

Pino Pascali: Poetry and Genius

Pino Pascali (1935–1968) was a brilliant and innovative artist whose short but extraordinary career left a lasting mark on postwar art history.

Starting from sculpture and evolving toward installation art, Pascali redefined the very concept of the artwork, using “poor” and unconventional materials such as earth, wool, straw, and reclaimed objects.

His works, often playful and ironic, are an ode to nature, imagination, and freedom, building worlds that oscillate between the archaic and the futuristic. Through this poetic approach, Pascali transformed everyday materials into powerful metaphors, turning simplicity into wonder.

The Building and Its Collections

The Foundation is housed in the former municipal slaughterhouse, a 1930s structure that has been masterfully restored and converted into a modern and functional exhibition space.

Its clean architecture and its terrace overlooking the sea make it one of the most striking museum venues in southern Italy.

The Foundation’s collections are divided into two main sections:

• The Permanent Collection – It presents a selection of Pino Pascali’s works covering the full span of his career, offering visitors a comprehensive insight into his creative evolution and artistic vision.
• Temporary Exhibitions – The Foundation maintains a dynamic exhibition program, hosting Italian and international contemporary artists. This continuous renewal makes it a living, ever-evolving space, always in dialogue with the present and future of art.

Every year, the museum also awards the Pino Pascali Prize, a prestigious recognition given to an internationally renowned contemporary artist.

Visitor Information

📍 Address: Via Parco del Lauro, 119 – 70044 Polignano a Mare (BA), Italy

📞 Phone: +39 080 4249534

🕒 Opening Hours:

Hours vary depending on the season, but the museum is generally open Tuesday through Sunday.

It is highly recommended to check the official website of the Pino Pascali Foundation before planning your visit for the most up-to-date schedule.

🎟️ Tickets:

Full price: €5–6

Discounts are available for students and other eligible categories.

Set on a cliff that merges sky, sea, and creativity, the Pino Pascali Foundation is not only a tribute to an exceptional artist but also a gateway to the contemporary soul of Puglia — a place where art, light, and landscape meet in perfect harmony.

Cover photo credits: Piero Deggiovanni, Google Maps