The Pinacoteca Civica is a historic and comprehensive collection of ecclesiastical art. More than 800 pieces adorn the walls of the marvelous Palazzo dell’Arengo in the rectangular Piazza Arringo. Inspect the array of works from various monasteries and consider the intriguing history of the collection.
Note that the museum was officially founded in 1861, after certain religious orders were suppressed. The works of art from such religious sites as the Sant’Angelo Magno and the San Domenico monasteries were then made part of the collection. Browse the pieces on display in the majestic halls of the palace and pick out your favorites.
The museum specializes in medieval triptychs, which are three-part panels joined together. Notice how San Sebastiano appears in many of the paintings throughout the centuries.
Inspect the rare 13th-century Piviale di Niccolò IV, a cloak worn by clergy. Among the other highlights are paintings by Carlo Crivelli, Pietro Alamanno and Giovanni Ventura Borghesi. Get hold of an audio guide and chat with the gallery docents for a more detailed understanding of the collection.
Enjoy the period décor and furnishings of the palace, where old armchairs, mirrors, curtains and chandeliers remain well preserved from the Renaissance period. The museum also puts on temporary exhibitions on a range of topics.
There is a fee to enter the museum, which is open from morning until late afternoon Tuesday through Sunday. Hours are longer in summer, while the site closes for 2 hours for lunch in winter. .
The Pinacoteca Civica is in the Palazzo dell’Arengo on the southern side of the Piazza Arringo, in the historic district of Ascoli Piceno. Ride a bus to a stop in the area. See some of the other sights located around the square, such as the Cattedrale di Sant’Emidio, the Museo Diocesano di Ascoli Piceno and the Battistero di San Giovanni.
