Ducal Palace and the Gonzaga
The Gonzaga family (lords, marquises, and finally dukes of the city of Mantua) made it their residence from 1328 to 1707, when the last duke, Ferdinand Charles, was forced into exile.
The palace, initially composed of buildings from different eras, took its organic form in the second half of the 16th century, when it became a single imposing architectural complex of 35,000 square meters. With Austrian rule, some court rooms were adapted as representative spaces, and during the reign of Maria Theresa of Austria, the building was named the Royal Palace.
Mantova Ducal Palace
The Ducal Palace of Mantua was a key point of reference in the history of art with the arrival of Pisanello in Mantua already in the early fifteenth century, and later with the presence of Andrea Mantegna. After being abandoned in the nineteenth century, the Ducal Palace has been undergoing restorations since the early twentieth century and has become a state museum.
In addition to the painting gallery, the sections of archaeology and sculpture, the apartments and the Castle of San Giorgio are of notable importance, where the famous “Bridal Chamber” painted by Mantegna, with scenes of Gonzaga life, is located.
Useful information about the Ducal Palace of Mantua
Access to the Castle and the Bridal Chamber is limited to 1,500 people per day, therefore entry will be allowed until all available places are filled. On Sundays with free admission, no reservations are taken.
A guided tour service will be available at fixed times departing at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, and 15:00 and 16:00. The guided tour service costs €5.00 per person and can be booked at the time of entry directly at the ticket office.
Where the Ducal Palace Museum is located
Piazza Sordello, 40 – 46100 Mantua Tel. 0376.352100 – Email: pal-mn@benicultulturali.it
