The Visitation in L'Aquila: Raffaello and Pontormo in Dialogue

The Visitation in L'Aquila: Raffaello and Pontormo

In 2026 L'Aquila hosts a major cultural initiative: The Visitation in L'Aquila. Raffaello and Pontormo brings together two landmark works of the Renaissance and early Mannerism, offering a visual and historical dialogue between different approaches to sacred art.

Following a run at the Museo del Prado—where Pontormo's Visitation from the church of San Michele Arcangelo in Carmignano was displayed—Raffaello's renowned Visitation from the Prado's collections will travel to L'Aquila. The project is part of L'Aquila Italian Capital of Culture 2026 programming.

Curated by Professor Tom Henry and Dr. Federica Zalabra, the exhibition pairs the paintings with drawings, prints, architectural models and historical documents to reconstruct the artistic context and patronage surrounding the works.

Why attend

• Direct comparison: Raffaello’s classical balance versus Pontormo’s emotive Mannerism.
• Rare opportunity: the return to the city after centuries of a key Renaissance masterpiece.
• Educational material: drawings and documents illuminate creative processes and historical background.

Practical information

• Period: 27 June – 27 September 2026.
• Location: L'Aquila (part of the Italian Capital of Culture 2026 program).
• Advice: book tickets in advance and check official channels for times, access rules and visitor information.

This exhibition is important for both general audiences and specialists: it offers the chance to view the masterpieces together, explore ties between local patronage and major Renaissance workshops, and follow the cultural exchange connecting Madrid and L'Aquila.