Van Dyck at Palazzo Ducale: a major European retrospective in Genoa

Van Dyck at Palazzo Ducale: a focused retrospective on the Flemish master

Palazzo Ducale in Genoa presents a Van Dyck exhibition running until 19 July 2026, gathering about sixty paintings from leading international and Italian collections. The show reconstructs the artist's European journey from Antwerp to Liguria and the English court, highlighting his blend of pictorial solidity and psychological insight.

Why see it

• Iconic portraits: works that reveal Van Dyck's skill in conveying sitters' character, from nobility to religious figures.
• Sacred painting: emotionally charged altarpieces and devotional scenes showcasing dramatic intensity.
• Contemporary dialogues: selected modern works integrated into the route to link Baroque aesthetics with current themes of identity and representation.
• International loans: masterpieces on loan from institutions such as the Louvre, the Prado and the National Gallery, alongside major Italian museums.

Exhibition design and route

The show is arranged into ten thematic sections rather than a strict chronology, exploring power, fashion, family and faith in evocative displays. Multimedia supports and carefully staged presentations help visitors grasp historical context and Van Dyck's stylistic nuances.

Network and collateral programs

The exhibition anchors the Van Dyck 2026 Network, a cultural programme that includes additional displays, city routes and academic events across Genoa. The initiative aims to create a widespread museum experience that highlights the master's footprint in the city.

Practical information

• Venue: Palazzo Ducale, Genoa
• Dates: until 19 July 2026
• Tickets and opening times: check the official Palazzo Ducale website for prices, schedules and booking requirements
• Visiting tip: allow at least 90 minutes for the full route and check for mandatory reservations on busy days.

The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to appreciate Van Dyck's international significance and his contribution to Baroque portraiture — suitable for specialists and general audiences alike.