Palazzo dei Consoli – one of the most important civic monuments of Umbria

History and description

Built between 1332 and 1349, designed either by Angelo da Orvieto or Matteo Gattapone, the palace—constructed in light stone—was part of an urban and political project, serving as the seat of the highest magistracies of the Commune. Architecturally, it features an elegant Gothic portico with a lunette fresco, a bell tower over 60 meters high, the Sala dell’Arengo where citizens once gathered, the palatine chapel, the noble floor, internal fountains, and even a corridor dedicated to sanitary facilities. Since 1909, it has also housed the Civic Museum, which preserves some of the most important collections of Umbria.

Curiosities

In addition to being the repository of the famous Eugubine Tablets, the palace also has a tower at the base of which is installed an iron cage. Historically, this was used to publicly expose thieves and wrongdoers as a form of punishment and humiliation.

Access

Open year‑round, the palace can be visited at the cost of €7.00, with reductions and free entry available under specific conditions.

How to reach it

Located in the historic center of Gubbio, the palace can be reached by car (parking outside the pedestrian area) or by public transport, including several bus lines that stop near the square.

Considered one of the most beautiful and important civic monuments of Umbria, the Palazzo dei Consoli is an unmissable stop for anyone exploring the region.

Photo credits: Panoramio upload bot (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 3.0