FAI Spring Days in Udine: visits to the Antonini Stringher, Antonini Maseri and Antonini Mangilli de

FAI Spring Days in Udine: special openings of the Antonini palaces

As part of the FAI Spring Days, Udine offers rare public access to several historic palaces. The program includes Palazzo Antonini Stringher (home to the Fondazione Friuli), Palazzo Antonini Maseri (the university rectorate) and Palazzo Antonini Mangilli del Torso (headquarters of CISM), along with the former military hospital now housing the Prefecture.

Highlights

• Palazzo Antonini Stringher: a complex with roots in the 16th century, influenced by Venetian architectural traditions and Palladian projects; it houses an art collection spanning local and modern artists.
• Palazzo Antonini Maseri: built for the Antonini family and modified over centuries; it hosts the university rectorate and some visits are reserved for FAI members.
• Palazzo Antonini Mangilli del Torso: home of the International Center for Mechanical Sciences (CISM), an institution with both local and international significance.
• Former military hospital / Prefecture: a historical route tracing the site's evolution from monastic and military complex to current public use.

Visitor information

Many tours are led by student guides known as "Apprendisti Ciceroni", who explain the buildings' history, architecture and artworks. Practical details:

• Dates and hours: main openings on Saturday and Sunday, typically from 10:00 to 17:00. One special guided session may take place on the preceding Friday afternoon.
• Tour format: small groups (around 15 people) with departures every 20 minutes to ensure a quality visit.
• Bookings and fees: some visits require advance booking; participation may involve a small contribution, with reduced rates for FAI members.
• Accessibility: historic sites may have limited accessibility; check access conditions when booking.

Tips for attendees

• Arrive a few minutes before your scheduled departure time to secure your place in the group.
• Check the official FAI website or the local delegation page for updates, reservations and any changes to the program.
• Bring an identity document if required for registration or access control.

These openings are an excellent opportunity to discover lesser-known facets of Udine's monumental heritage, from Renaissance architecture and later restorations to art collections preserved within these historic palaces.