Palazzo Bianco

Overview

Palazzo Bianco is the white-marble counterpart to its red neighbour on Via Garibaldi, housing an outstanding collection of Italian, Flemish, and Spanish painting from the 12th to the 17th century. The museum was redesigned by Franco Albini in the 1950s in a celebrated modernist installation.

Highlights

• Caravaggio's Ecce Homo: A powerful late Caravaggio, one of the gallery's most important works.
• Flemish masters: Paintings by Memling, Provost, and Gerard David represent the strong Genoa-Flanders trade connection.
• Albini's display: The innovative museum design — floating paintings, translucent screens — is a landmark of mid-century museography.

History

Originally built in the 16th century, the palace was rebuilt in the 18th century after damage. It was donated to the city by the Brignole-Sale family and opened as a museum in 1892. Franco Albini's 1950s redesign won international acclaim and influenced museum design worldwide.

Visitor Tips

• Art and design: Even if you're not an art buff, the Albini installation is worth seeing for design lovers.
• Combined ticket: Covers Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Doria-Tursi.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.