Bruno Gorgone artist with his artwork Enigmatico Rosa at Pinacoteca di Savona in 2010

Pinacoteca Civica Di Savona

Pinacoteca Civica di Savona: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Liguria’s historic city of Savona, the Pinacoteca Civica di Savona is a premier destination for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Housed in the elegant Palazzo Gavotti, this renowned museum offers visitors a journey through over seven centuries of Ligurian and Italian art, from medieval masterpieces to modern and contemporary works. The gallery not only preserves significant pieces—such as Donato de’ Bardi’s Crocifissione, the oldest known oil painting on canvas—but also hosts the acclaimed Milena Milani/Cardazzo Collection, featuring works by Picasso, Magritte, and Miró. Beyond its collections, the Pinacoteca enriches the visitor experience with temporary exhibitions, cultural events, workshops, and guided tours, all within a vibrant urban setting near Savona’s most important historical sites. This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions, ensuring a rewarding and seamless experience for every visitor (Evendo, MUSA Savona, La Nuova Savona).

History and Cultural Significance

Founded in the late 19th to early 20th century, the Pinacoteca Civica di Savona is a testament to the city’s dedication to preserving and showcasing its artistic heritage. The museum’s core collection was assembled through generous donations, transfers from local churches, and private acquisitions, reflecting Savona’s evolving cultural identity. The gallery’s location in the historic Palazzo Gavotti further enhances its significance, offering visitors a unique blend of art and architecture (Evendo, MUSA Savona).

The Collections: A Journey Through Seven Centuries

Medieval and Renaissance Foundations

The museum’s journey begins with medieval and Renaissance religious art, including altarpieces, sculptures, and devotional works that illuminate Liguria’s spiritual history. Noteworthy highlights are:

Donato de’ Bardi’s Crocifissione (1448): The oldest known oil painting on canvas, celebrated for its innovative technique and emotional depth (visitvarazze.it).
Taddeo di Bartolo’s Madonna con Bambino, quattro angeli e donatori: An exquisite Sienese International Gothic panel, rare outside Tuscany (museionline.info).
Vincenzo Foppa’s Pala Fornari: A Renaissance masterpiece reflecting Savona’s connection to the Della Rovere papal family and the broader Mediterranean artistic milieu (musa.savona.it).
Madonna col Bambino Bas-relief: A refined marble relief from the 15th or 16th century, symbolizing the region’s sculptural excellence (imperiatv.it).

Baroque and Enlightenment Art

The Baroque era is represented by dramatic altarpieces, narrative canvases, and works by Ligurian masters such as:

Gioacchino Assereto: La tunica di Giuseppe mostrata a Giacobbe—noted for its emotional intensity.
Giovanni Mazone, Giovanni Andrea De Ferrari, Orazio De Ferrari, Domenico Piola: Exemplars of Genoese and Ligurian painting traditions, illustrating the dynamism of the local Baroque school (museionline.info).

As the Enlightenment dawned, the collection expanded to include secular portraits, landscapes, and genre scenes, reflecting the tastes of Savona’s emerging bourgeoisie.

Modern and Contemporary Art: The Milani/Cardazzo Collection

A highlight of the museum is the Collezione Milena Milani e Carlo Cardazzo, which positions Savona on the international art stage. The collection features:

Pablo Picasso, Lucio Fontana, Giorgio de Chirico, René Magritte, Joan Miró, Jean Dubuffet, Giuseppe Capogrossi, Cy Twombly: Works spanning Cubism, Surrealism, Metaphysical Art, and Abstract Expressionism (museionline.info).

Savona’s Ceramic Tradition

In addition to paintings and sculptures, the museum complex includes the Museo della Ceramica di Savona, renowned for its blue and white maiolica from the Renaissance onward. Highlights include 16th-century majolica wares and pharmacy jars from 1666, reflecting Savona’s historic role as a ceramics center (visitvarazze.it).

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Monday: Closed

Hours may vary on public holidays or during special events—check the official website for updates.

Tickets

Standard Admission: €5–€7
Reduced Admission: Students, seniors (65+), groups
Free Entry: Children under 12, persons with disabilities (please verify on the official site)
Combined tickets for the Pinacoteca Civica and the Museo della Ceramica are often available.

Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; advance booking is recommended for guided tours or special exhibitions.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Wheelchair accessible: Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Guided tours: Available in Italian and, upon request, in English or other languages. Book in advance for groups or educational visits.
Audio guides and tactile guides: For an enhanced and inclusive visitor experience (contact ahead to confirm availability).
Cloakroom and lockers: Available for coats and small bags.
Gift shop: Features exhibition catalogues, local crafts, and art books.
Educational workshops: Held during weekends and school holidays.

Visitor Guidelines and Tips

Photography: Permitted without flash in permanent collections; restrictions may apply during temporary exhibitions.
Dress code: No formal requirements, but respectful attire is encouraged.
Visit duration: 1–2 hours is recommended for a full experience.
Best times to visit: Weekday mornings and off-season months for a quieter visit.
Nearby dining: Numerous cafés and restaurants along Via Pietro Paleocapa and the historic center.

Nearby Attractions

Explore additional Savona historical sites within walking distance:

Priamar Fortress: 16th-century fortress with panoramic views.
Cappella Sistina di Savona: Renaissance chapel adjacent to the cathedral.
Savona Cathedral (Santa Maria Assunta): Ligurian Gothic gem.
Museo della Ceramica di Savona: Explore Savona’s ceramic artistry in the same building.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Pinacoteca Civica di Savona opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM; closed on Mondays.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available at the entrance; advance booking is recommended for guided tours.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all floors are accessible via elevators and ramps.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, upon request and with advance booking.

Q: Can I combine my visit with other attractions?
A: Yes, combined tickets for the Museo della Ceramica and proximity to the Priamar Fortress and Cappella Sistina make for a rich cultural itinerary.

Visuals and Media

Alt text: Exterior view of the Palazzo Gavotti, home of the Pinacoteca Civica di Savona.

Alt text: Detail of Donato de’ Bardi’s Crocifissione, an early Italian oil painting on canvas.

Alt text: 17th-century blue-and-white pharmacy jars from Savona on display in the ceramics collection.

View map and directions to the Pinacoteca Civica di Savona

Final Recommendations

The Pinacoteca Civica di Savona is a cultural gem that encapsulates Liguria’s artistic journey from the Middle Ages to the avant-garde. Its diverse collections, dynamic programming, and prime location amid Savona’s historic sites ensure a meaningful and memorable visit. For the best experience, plan ahead by checking visiting hours, booking tickets or tours in advance, and allowing time to explore nearby attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or a casual traveler, the museum promises insight, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation of Italian art and heritage.